Santa Barbara Chapel, also known as Kizlar Monastery, is a historic religious site located in the Göreme Valley of Cappadocia, Turkey. The chapel dates back to the 11th century and is renowned for its unique frescoes depicting various religious scenes, including the life of Jesus and the saints.

The chapel is believed to have been built by monks who sought refuge in Cappadocia during the Iconoclasm period when the use of religious icons was banned. The monks established a monastery in the area, which became known as the Kizlar Monastery, or the Monastery of the Girls, due to a legend that says the daughter of a king was kept here as a prisoner.

The chapel is carved into the soft tuff rock formations that are abundant in the region, and its interior is adorned with intricate frescoes that have been well-preserved over the centuries. The frescoes depict various scenes from the Bible, including the Nativity, the Last Supper, the Crucifixion, and the Resurrection, as well as depictions of various saints and religious figures. The artwork is considered some of the best-preserved and most important examples of Byzantine art in the region.

Visitors can explore the chapel’s interior and admire the stunning frescoes, which are carefully restored and protected by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The chapel is a popular destination for tourists interested in religious and cultural history, and it offers a unique glimpse into the artistic and spiritual traditions of the Byzantine era.

The chapel is easily accessible from Göreme, and visitors can also combine a visit to Santa Barbara Chapel with other nearby attractions such as the Göreme Open Air Museum and the Zelve Open Air Museum.

In conclusion, the Santa Barbara Chapel in Cappadocia is a must-visit destination for tourists interested in religious and cultural history, offering a fascinating glimpse into the artistic and spiritual traditions of the Byzantine era.