
The one nave barrel vaulted plan common for Göreme's churches was the most convenient architectural style for the religious communities and those liveng in seclusion in the area. These buildings were also seen as suitale areas for graves. The transversal rectangular plan originated in Mesopotamia, and it is likely that these buildings were consturcted for groups of foreigners settling in the area.
In Göreme, the only church built with two naves is the church of St.Eustathios, however, the churches in Soganli and Ihlara quite often feature two naves. Building according to the basilica plan with three naves is also rare in Göreme, this being a preferred technique for the Bishopric churches such as Durmus Kadir. These churches were big and the architecture was very ornate, and for this reason this style was not popular in rocky areas.
Two different techniques have been used with the wall paintings in the churches:
1. The direct application of red ochre paint onto the bare rock. Examples of this technique can be seen in the churches of St.Basil, Elmali and the Chapel of St.Barbara.
2. The application of a type of plaster made from gypsum, sand and straw as a preparatory surface, the fresco technique was applied on.
3. The subjects of the drawings are taken from the Bible and the life of Jesus.