The Virgin Mary Monastery Situated in Şebin Karahisar, a district within Giresun Province, the Virgin Mary Monastery is a complex featuring multiple buildings such as a dining hall, dormitory, church, classrooms, and other facilities. Its foundation dates back to the Byzantine era, and it shares architectural similarities with the famous Sumela Monastery, which was believed to be completed by the end of the 4th century and is also carved into a rock face. The monastery, reached by an entrance with 26 steps, is hewn from a single rock and consists of multiple levels connected by stairways. The lower floor includes a cistern for water storage, while the upper floors accommodate a church spanning four levels. The entire complex contains four floors, with the first three comprising 32 rooms used for various functions such as halls, kitchens, and restrooms. It is believed to have been originally built during the medieval period, suffered destruction in a large fire, and was subsequently reconstructed in the 19th century. Up until 1940, Greek communities from Giresun, Ordu, Trabzon, and neighboring areas would gather in the city for a three-day period starting on August 26 to participate in religious ceremonies at the monastery. Situated in the Şebinkarahisar district, the Virgin Mary Monastery is a notable destination for faith tourism due to its historic location and impressive architectural design. Its stone masonry, characterized by meticulously cut stones, is comparable to that seen in other monasteries, including the renowned Sumela Monastery in Trabzon. If you have any questions or would like further information about The Virgin Mary Monastery, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] or simply send us a message on WhatsApp. We will respond promptly.