Sumela Monastery

The Sumela Monastery, also known as the Monastery of the Virgin Mary, is an ancient Greek Orthodox monastery located in the beautiful Maçka district of Trabzon province in Turkey. The monastery is perched on the side of a steep cliff, overlooking the Altindere Valley and the beautiful forests of the region. It is one of the most important cultural and religious landmarks in Turkey and attracts visitors from all over the world.

The Sumela Monastery dates back to the 4th century AD, when it was founded by two Athenian monks named Barnabas and Sophronios. The monastery was built in honor of the Virgin Mary and quickly became an important center of Christianity in the region. Over the years, the monastery underwent several renovations and expansions, adding new buildings, frescoes, and decorations.

The monastery's most impressive feature is its location. It is built into the side of a steep cliff, 1200 meters above sea level. The monastery is accessed via a steep and narrow path that winds up the mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and forests. The path is surrounded by lush greenery and offers visitors a chance to see the region's flora and fauna up close.

The monastery is made up of several buildings, including a church, a chapel, a library, and various living quarters. The church is the most impressive structure in the complex, with its intricate frescoes, elaborate iconography, and stunning architecture. The church's dome is adorned with images of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and the Apostles, while the walls are decorated with scenes from the Bible and other religious texts.

The chapel, located next to the church, is also worth visiting. It is smaller than the church, but equally impressive. The chapel is dedicated to Saint George and features a beautifully painted dome and walls, depicting scenes from the saint's life and miracles.

The monastery's library is another important building in the complex. It contains a vast collection of ancient books, manuscripts, and religious texts, some of which date back to the monastery's early days. The library also houses several artifacts and relics, including holy water, pieces of the True Cross, and fragments of the bones of Saint Barnabas.

One of the most fascinating features of the Sumela Monastery is the frescoes. The monastery is home to some of the most impressive frescoes in the world, depicting scenes from the Bible, the life of Christ, and the lives of various saints and martyrs. The frescoes are masterpieces of art and offer visitors a glimpse into the region's rich cultural and religious history.

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, the Sumela Monastery is also a natural wonder. The monastery is surrounded by lush green forests and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Altindere Valley, located below the monastery, is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and lynx. The valley is also home to several waterfalls and streams, which offer visitors a chance to cool off and enjoy the region's natural beauty.

Over the years, the Sumela Monastery has undergone several renovations and restorations. The most recent renovation took place in 2016 and lasted for several years. During this time, the monastery was closed to visitors, but it has since reopened and is once again welcoming visitors from all over the world.

Today, the Sumela Monastery is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to explore the region's rich cultural and religious heritage. The monastery is open to visitors year-round and offers guided tours, audio guides, and other amenities to help visitors make the most of their visit. Visitors to the Sumela Monastery should be prepared for a steep climb up the mountain.