Located in Şebinkarahisar's Göynük Village, this historic single-nave Greek chapel is known for its trefoil-shaped window, octagonal dome drum, and rustic rural heritage.
This small church in the Göynük Neighborhood is one of the Greek structures scattered across the mountain villages of Şebinkarahisar. Built as a single-nave chapel, its exact construction date and builder remain unknown, as there is no inscription or period source describing it. The inscription frame above the entrance was left blank—perhaps never carved, or erased over time.
On the east side stands a semi-circular apse flanked by small niches. The rectangular entrance on the west facade features a flat lintel stone and fine ashlar masonry. Just above it, a striking trefoil-shaped window catches the eye. Eight windows line the octagonal dome drum, with corner moldings carved in a delicate sawtooth pattern. Cut ashlar was used for the door, window jambs, and arches, while rubble stone makes up the remaining walls—a clear sign that the stonemasons of the era valued both aesthetics and durability.
The eastern apse is partially ruined, and the structure remains unprotected and unmaintained. Rather than a curated tourist destination, it stands as an authentic piece of rural heritage left to time. Alongside similar structures in Şebinkarahisar such as Asarcık Church and Licese Church, it leaves a silent yet tangible trace of the region's multicultural past.
Guide's Note
When to Visit
Village roads can be challenging during winter. The period from late spring to early autumn offers much smoother travel. During summer, roads are clear and the surrounding landscape is vibrant and green. Since dirt roads can get slippery on rainy days, checking the weather forecast before setting off is recommended.
How to Get There
The church is located about 18 kilometers from Şebinkarahisar town center in Şaplıca Village. Driving your own car is the most practical choice; careful driving is required as roads within the village can be narrow. Public transport along this route is almost non-existent, so traveling by private vehicle or hiring a local guide is advised.
Time Needed
The church itself is a small structure, so 30 to 45 minutes is usually enough. However, while in Şebinkarahisar, you can combine your visit with nearby sites like Asarcık Church, Behramşah Mosque, and Şebinkarahisar Castle as part of a day trip or a two-day itinerary.
Suggested Itinerary
Depart from central Şebinkarahisar and visit this church in Göynük Village first, then head about 7 kilometers north to see Asarcık Church. You can also explore Şebinkarahisar Castle and the Fatih Mosque on the same day, as these stops line up conveniently on the return loop to the town center.
Photography Spots
The trefoil-shaped window on the west facade catches soft afternoon light nicely. The octagonal dome drum with its eight windows offers a great subject for wide-angle exterior shots. Up close, the sawtooth corner moldings add an intricate architectural detail to your shots.
Things to Keep in Mind
The structure is unprotected, and the apse on the eastern side is partially ruined. Watch out for loose stones when walking around or entering, and wear sturdy footwear. Because village roads are narrow, drive cautiously and stay alert for oncoming local traffic.
About the Structure
The exact construction date of the church is unknown, as the inscription plaque was left blank. The semi-circular apse on the east facade and the small niches beside it are typical features of single-nave chapel architecture. The contrast between cut ashlar around openings and rubble stone in the main walls nicely reflects regional masonry traditions of the period.
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