Sumela Monastery

Sümela Manastırı

A stunning Greek Orthodox monastery carved into a cliff face in the Pontic Mountains south of Trabzon, dating back to the 4th century. The dramatic architecture perched 300 meters above a forested valley makes it one of Turkey's most breathtaking spiritual sites.

Things to do

• Climb to the Monastery Interior — Ascend the steep stone staircase carved into the cliff face to reach the main church chambers, decorated with Byzantine frescoes and the sacred spring believed to have healing properties.
• Explore the Upper Terraces — Walk through the upper carved chambers and terraces to discover monks' cells, storage areas, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the forested Altındere Valley.
• Visit the Sacred Spring (Hagiasma) — Locate the natural spring within the monastery that pilgrims have revered for centuries, believed to cure illnesses and featured prominently in Orthodox Christian traditions.
• Photography at Golden Hour — Position yourself on the valley floor or approach paths at sunset to capture the monastery's dramatic silhouette and carved stonework illuminated against the Pontic Mountains.
• Hike Through Altındere Valley — Trek the forested trails surrounding the monastery to experience the alpine landscape, spot local flora, and access alternative viewpoints of the cliff-face structure.
• Visit the Nearby Museum Building — Browse artifacts, historical displays, and informational panels about the monastery's 1,600-year history, Byzantine period, and its significance in Orthodox Christianity.
• Attend Evening Light Show (Seasonal) — Experience the monastery illuminated with colored lighting during summer months, transforming the carved architecture into a dramatic nocturnal spectacle.

Food to try

• Trabzon Hamsi (Anchovy) — Fresh Black Sea anchovies prepared simply grilled or fried, a signature regional dish reflecting the coastal heritage of the Trabzon province near Sumela.
• Muhlama — A traditional Pontic mountain cheese and cornmeal dish served hot and stringy, characteristic of the high-altitude rural cuisine surrounding the monastery.
• Kuymak — Similar to muhlama, this creamy cornmeal and butter dish is comfort food of the Pontic region and often served in rustic restaurants near the monastery entrance.
• Trabzon Pilav — A local rice pilaf cooked with chickpeas and spiced meat, reflecting the Ottoman culinary traditions maintained in the Black Sea region.
• Honey and Walnuts from Local Vendors — Purchase fresh honey and walnuts from mountain beekeepers and farmers at the monastery entrance, capturing the pure flavors of Pontic highland agriculture.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Respectfully for Sacred Space — Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees when entering the monastery, as it remains an active pilgrimage site sacred to Orthodox Christians.
• Visit During Pilgrimage Seasons — Plan visits around Orthodox Easter and August 15th (Assumption of Mary) when thousands of pilgrims gather, offering authentic spiritual atmosphere but requiring early arrival for access.
• Learn Basic Orthodox Customs — Understand the significance of icon veneration, the frescoes' religious narratives, and respectful behavior in prayer areas to appreciate the site's deep spiritual meaning.
• Hire Local Guides for Context — Engage with knowledgeable guides from Trabzon who can explain Byzantine history, restoration efforts after 1923 closure, and the monastery's role in Greek-Turkish cultural heritage.