The carved surfaces, up close, reveal a density and variety of imagery that can occupy sustained attention for extended periods.

At the same time, the protection of the site from further deterioration is an ongoing challenge.

The limestone of the pillars, exposed to the elements after centuries of burial, is subject to weathering that must be managed through careful conservation.

The popularity of the site brings visitor traffic that creates its own management challenges.

The balance between providing meaningful access and protecting the physical integrity of the monuments is a practical challenge that the Turkish authorities and the archaeological research community navigate continuously.

The protective structures erected over the main excavated areas — large steel-and-fabric roof forms that cover the enclosures while allowing natural light and air circulation — are visible in photographs of the site and represent a significant investment in long-term preservation.