Discover Hıdır İlyas Church: A hidden gem in Alanya's history

Located in the Hıdır İlyas area within the boundaries of Hacı Mehmetli village, 8 kilometers from Alanya city center, the church, believed to have been founded at the beginning of the 19th century, is currently used for worship by Christian visitors. The church has a mezzanine floor with wooden decorations. Repaired in 1873, the church remains closed to worship following the population exchange in 1924, when the Orthodox Christians living in Alanya who spoke Turkish emigrated to Greece. Tucked away in the lush hills just outside Alanya, Hıdır İlyas Church (also known as Saint Ilyas Church) is a quiet testament to the region’s rich Byzantine past. This 6th-century ruin sits on a hillside, surrounded by olive groves and pine trees, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city center. 🌿

To get there, you can drive or take a taxi, as public transport options are limited. The journey takes around 15-20 minutes, winding through scenic views before reaching the site.

The rectangular structure has its apse on the south side. It has three entrance doors. One of the doors on the east provides access to a second, elevated wooden space inside the church. The columns in front of these spaces are wooden. The building has four windows on its east and west facades, and two windows on the north side. The wooden gable roof is vaulted on the inside. Above the door on the west side, there is an inscription in Karamanli Turkish written in the Greek alphabet. This inscription is currently on display in a museum. There is also a fountain here dating from the same period as the church. The site is small but atmospheric, making it a great spot for photography or a quiet moment of reflection. The elevated position also provides stunning views of Alanya and the Mediterranean Sea, especially at sunrise or sunset. 🌅

The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, when the temperatures are cooler and the light is perfect for photos. Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, and a hat, as there is little shade at the site. If you’re interested in history, consider bringing a guidebook or downloading an offline map to learn more about the church’s significance.

Respect the historical nature of the place by not climbing on fragile structures.

Fun fact: The church is named after Saint Ilyas, a revered figure in both Christian and Islamic traditions. Locals believe the site holds spiritual significance, and some still visit to light candles or offer prayers. 🕯️