Sumela Monastery The Sumela Monastery is a well-known Greek Orthodox religious site located on the rugged cliffs of Karadağ, nestled in the Pontic Mountains within the Maçka district of Trabzon Province, Turkey. Perched dramatically above the Altındere Valley, it holds immense historical and cultural value. In 2015, access to the monastery was restricted to the public due to concerns over falling rocks. Although the original restoration timeline anticipated completion within a year, it remained inaccessible for three years before finally reopening its doors on May 25th, 2019. The construction of the Sumela Monastery began in 385 AD, utilizing stone and clay bricks. It was initially founded by a Greek monk named Barnabas, with support from his nephew Sophronios, who helped him build two rooms carved out of the rock. As time passed, more monks joined them, gradually expanding the monastery complex. Under the directive of Byzantine Emperor Justinian, the monastery was expanded. However, it suffered damage from looting and fire during the Byzantine period in 650 AD. Later, the Comnenid dynasty restored and enlarged the site, adding 72 rooms and establishing a well-stocked library. The Sumela Monastery rose to prominence during the rule of the Empire of Trabzon in the 13th century, adopting much of its current architectural form. The monastery received valuable offerings from Basil and John, but its greatest patron was Alexios III (1349–1390). According to tradition, Alexios III was saved from a violent storm by a holy Virgin, who then appeared to him and instructed him to restore the monastery. The Sumela Monastery complex features multiple structures, including chapels, kitchens, dormitories for students, a guesthouse, a library, and a holy spring that holds deep spiritual value for Eastern Orthodox Christians. The most striking part of the complex is the Rock Church, renowned for its breathtaking frescoes that illustrate scenes from both the Old and New Testaments. These artworks begin with the creation narrative from Genesis and continue through the life of Christ, ending with the Ascension. Altogether, there are 140 distinct biblical scenes depicted on its walls, setting it apart as a sacred and exceptional place. In 2000, the Sumela Monastery was officially placed on UNESCO’s Tentative List, in recognition of its rich cultural and historical heritage. If you have any questions or inquiries regarding Sumela Monastery, please don't hesitate to contact us at [email protected] or simply message us via Whatsapp, and we will respond as soon as possible.