Aksaray- The Melendiz River (Potamus, Kapadukus-Cappadocia River) passes through the Ihlara Valley (Ihlara Valley), formerly known as Peristremma. The natural formation and sheltered structure of the Ihlara Valley have made it one of the important centers of Christianity. Due to its natural structure, the valley was used as a very convenient monk's house by monks and priests from the fourth century onwards. In the frescoed churches in the valley (such as Sümbüllü, Yılanlı, Kokar, Ağaçaltı, Pürenliseki, Eğritaş, Kırkdamaltı, Bahattin Samanliği), there are very rich religious scenes reflecting the art of the Byzantine period.