The fascinating story of Sumela Monastery
Located on the slopes of Altındere Valley in the Maçka district of Trabzon, the Sumela Monastery enchants visitors with its magnificent structure. So, what is the story behind this splendid edifice? The story of the Sumela Monastery, also known as the Monastery of Virgin Mary, is detailed in our article...
It is said that the foundations of the Sumela Monastery, one of the significant structures for the Christian world, were laid during the time of Byzantine Emperor Theodosius I. According to legend, two priests named Barnabas and Sophranios traveled to the location of the Sumela Monastery after having a dream one night. They both had dreams of seeing Jesus and the Virgin Mary and, unaware of each other's journey from Athens, met and shared their dreams. As a result, they decided to lay the foundations of the monastery.
The monastery was expanded and renovated by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century and gained importance during the reign of Alexios III, attracting income through decrees. It continued to be enriched through decrees even after the reign of Alexios III. It is believed that the monastery took its current form over the course of the 13th century.
After the Turkish domination on the shores of the Eastern Black Sea, Ottoman rulers continued to protect and develop the Sumela Monastery. Many sections of the monastery were renovated in the 18th century, and its walls were adorned with frescoes. In the 19th century, new buildings were added.
Recently, a mass led by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I was attended by thousands of people, highlighting the significance of the site as one of the region's most important tourist destinations. The Sumela Monastery, visited by millions of people every year, includes student rooms, a kitchen, a guesthouse, and the main rock church, among other areas. The frescoes on the walls symbolize significant historical and artistic value, and the breathtaking view adds to its allure.
