Sumela Monastery

Sümela Manastırı

A spectacular Greek Orthodox monastery carved into a cliff face 1,200 meters above sea level near Macka, dating back to the 4th century. The breathtaking location and intricate Byzantine frescoes make it one of Turkey's most iconic religious sites.

Things to do

• Explore the Monastery Interior — Walk through the carved chambers, refectory, and chapel to see preserved Byzantine frescoes depicting saints and religious scenes dating back centuries.
• Hike the Cliff Face Stairways — Ascend the ancient stone staircases and narrow passages built directly into the rock cliff to reach the upper levels and experience the monks' daily routes.
• Visit the Sacred Spring — Discover the natural spring water source near the monastery entrance that pilgrims have considered holy for over 1,600 years.
• Photograph from Viewpoint Ridge — Stand at the designated overlook across the valley for panoramic shots of the entire monastery complex against the forested Black Sea highlands.
• Tour the Icon Collection — View the restored religious icons and reliquaries displayed in the museum section documenting the monastery's spiritual significance.
• Walk the Forest Trail Loop — Follow the marked nature path through pine and hazelnut trees surrounding the monastery for wildlife spotting and landscape views.

Food to try

• Anchovy (Hamsi) Pilaf — A Black Sea specialty featuring local fresh anchovies mixed with rice and regional herbs, commonly served in Macka village restaurants.
• Cornbread with Cheese (Mısır Ekmeği) — Freshly baked golden cornbread stuffed with local white cheese, traditionally prepared in wood-fired ovens near the monastery entrance.
• Hazelnut Soup (Fındık Çorbası) — A creamy regional soup made from locally-grown hazelnuts blended with broth, reflecting the agricultural heritage of the Black Sea region.
• Grilled Mountain Trout — Fresh-caught trout from nearby streams, simply grilled with lemon and herbs, available at small eateries in surrounding villages.
• Honey and Walnut Pastry (Bal Cevizli Börek) — Crispy phyllo pastry filled with walnuts from the region and drizzled with local mountain honey, sold by vendors near the entrance.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Modestly at the Sacred Site — Wear covering clothing (long pants or skirts, covered shoulders) as this remains an active pilgrimage destination where religious respect is observed.
• Visit During Pilgrimage Seasons — Plan your visit around Orthodox Christian holidays, especially the Assumption of Mary in August, when the site hosts thousands of pilgrims and celebrations.
• Hire a Local Guide — English-speaking guides from Macka village provide essential historical context about Byzantine architecture and the monastery's role in Orthodox Christianity throughout centuries.
• Support Local Vendors Respectfully — Purchase from villagers selling honey, hazelnuts, and crafts near the entrance, understanding these sales support families who have lived near the monastery for generations.