Newsletters
A recent archaeological survey in the volcanic highlands of Karadag, located north of Karaman in south-central Türkiye, has uncovered 15 previously undocumented religious structures in the ancient region known as “Binbir Kilise,” or “One Thousand and One Churches.” The discovery was made under the direction of Associate Professor Ilker Mete Mimiroglu from Necmettin Erbakan University's Department of Early Christian and Byzantine Arts.
Speaking on the findings, Mimiroglu highlighted that these small churches and chapels, which had not been recorded in academic literature before, point to a much richer architectural and spiritual heritage than previously understood. The area is not only considered a significant pilgrimage center of the early Byzantine period but also hosted a dense population with multiple ancient settlements.
The ongoing surface research, now in its second year, focuses on identifying architectural remains, carved stones, and other material traces of past religious life. Alongside the newly found churches, researchers have documented cisterns, open-air ritual spaces, funerary inscriptions, and various grave structures. Some partially natural or modified caves have also been interpreted as hermit cells used for ascetic practices, with several featuring engraved crosses.
Epigraphic studies on the newly discovered inscriptions are continuing, aiming to decode more of the site’s religious and cultural significance during the Byzantine era.
In addition to its early Christian legacy, the survey also points to the site’s continued use during the Seljuk period. A coin from the Seljuk era was discovered, suggesting that local settlement activity may have extended into medieval Islamic rule in Anatolia.
Historical research indicates that by the 15th century, both Muslim and non-Muslim populations in the region were relocated, primarily toward the Balkans. This migration likely contributed to the abandonment of the Karadag settlements, including those in the Binbir Kilise area.
Mimiroglu noted that future campaigns will target newly identified locations within the region, aiming for broader and more detailed investigations into the area’s layered past.
3 min read
