Sümela Monastery
Sümela Manastırı
A Greek Orthodox monastery built into cliffs about 1,200 meters above sea level, with vivid frescoes. It is the top attraction in the Black Sea region.
Sumela Monastery is traditionally said to have been founded in the 4th century, though its surviving buildings mostly date from the 13th to 19th centuries. The whole monastery is built into the sheer cliffs of Altındere Valley National Park, looking as if it is suspended in midair from a distance. The cave church is covered inside and out with Byzantine frescoes. After several years of restoration, the monastery has reopened.
From the parking lot, walk up a forest trail for about 20–30 minutes. The monastery is about 45 km from Trabzon city center and can be reached by tour group or by car. It is often combined with Karaca Cave in a one-day trip. Every year on August 15, an Orthodox liturgy is held for the Dormition of the Virgin Mary.
Opening hours
Approx. 8:00–19:00 (shorter hours in winter)
Nearby sights
- Hamsiköy
- Atatürk Pavilion
- Karaca Cave
- Sera Lake
- Kaymaklı Monastery
- Hagia Sophia, Trabzon
- Boztepe
- Gülbahar Hatun Mosque