Information about places to visit in Turkey Trabzon Macka SUMELA MONASTERY

The Sumela Monastery in Trabzon’s Maçka District is located on a steep valley slope in the village of Altındere, 17 km away from the district center and 1150 meters above sea level. The monastery, situated 300 meters above the valley floor, consists of rooms surrounding a large rock cavity. The ceiling of this natural formation is wide enough to protect many of the monastery's spaces and the large rock church from rainfall.

Entry to the monastery is via a stone staircase with approximately 70 steps, starting from the outer courtyard. The stairs lean against the arches of the water channel system. The entrance gate, situated at a high and secure point for protection against attacks, leads to the inner courtyard, which is accessed by another staircase with about 50 steps. Various service rooms are lined along the right and left sides of the staircase.

The inner courtyard is surrounded by buildings with different functions, including a large rock church, chapels, a holy spring, a library, a kitchen, and rooms for monks, students, and guests.

Known among the public as 'Meryem Ana,' the original name of the monastery is 'Panaghia Tou Melas,' meaning 'Virgin of the Black Mountain.' The name 'Sumela' is derived from 'Melas,' which means 'black,' referring to the dark-colored mass of the mountain to which the monastery clings. Another legend about the name suggests it comes from a depiction of Mary found here, painted in black and dark colors. The international significance of the Sumela Monastery is attributed not only to the Mary icon but also to a piece of the cross of Jesus said to be kept here.

According to legend, the monastery was founded in the 370s by two Athenian monks, Barnabas and Sophronios, who came here following a vision of Mary. The monastery has been documented to have continued its existence and development since the 13th century. During the reign of Alexios III (1349-1390), the monastery gained importance and received special income through imperial edicts. Subsequent kings and princes also showed special interest in Sumela, leading to its spatial expansion.

The inner and outer walls of the large rock church and chapels are adorned with various frescoes. The oldest frescoes, found in the lowest layer, date back to the 14th century. In the 18th and 19th centuries, many parts of the monastery were renovated, and new buildings and frescoes were added, giving it a magnificent appearance. During this period, many local and foreign travelers visited and documented Sumela.

The slopes and flats south of the monastery housed the residences of those serving the monastery, barns for dairy animals, and vegetable gardens. About 500 meters away, there is the St. Barbara Church, known locally as Aya Vayvara.