Sumela Monastery - Turkey

Sumela Monastery is perhaps one of the most spectacular monasteries yet founded, tucked in a rocky cliff of Karadag Hill in the isolated mountainous area of Macka near Trabzon.

Trabzon is renowned for its historical significance. It is a Turkish port city on the country's northeast coast. The city boasts several historical locations and is recognized for being a site of the old silk pavement. It could also be the perfect setting for taking images for Instagram.

It holds a lot of significance and is cherished as a haven of serenity and calm. A long time ago, what is now the monastery was a cathedral. The monastery as it exists currently was made feasible by the joint ambition of two monks, Barnabas of Athens and Sophronios.

The name originates from the Mela hill on which it was founded. In Greek, "Stou Mela" signifies "on Mela." The name is derived from the Greek language in which the word Stou is shortened to Sou. As a result, the monastery was officially named Sou-mela aka Sümela.

It remains midst the cliffs, with its natural context, and was formed in 365 AD. It is a true representation of the artisanship of its period. So, history buffs must be prepared to get the fascinating experience at Sumela Monastery. 

The history of the monastery is extensive. Originally depicted by two monks who had the exact vision. Throughout the 13th era, when Greek Emperor Alexios III showed special attention to it, it was reached to magnificence.

During ceremonies, one can go around the corridors of Roman's ceremonial area. Or perhaps wander within the monastery to witness one among the Ottoman Empire's numerous treasures. The structure and decor are inspired by Cappadocia's cathedrals.

Kitchens, student rooms, a library, a hostel, and a holy spring can be found here. The monastery's major attraction is the Rock Church. Frescoes show biblical events from the tale of the Virgin Mary and Christ, and they are a wonder to witness.

When to visit Sumela Monastery, Turkey? 

Come amid the cooler months, either in May or September, when the visitor throngs begin to thin out and hotel rates are beginning to resume normal. You can visit Sumelra Monastery anytime between 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., although try to arrive as soon as possible to avoid the crowds.

Also, please remember that Ramadan occurs between May and June, while some won't experience difficulty buying food in areas like Istanbul, folks won't be able to locate something to consume throughout the Ramadan in places such as Trabzon except making meals the day prior to Ramadan, therefore I suggest reconsider coming to Trabzon during this time.

How to reach Sumela Monastery? 

By Plane: Flying into Trabzon Airport is the best and most preferred means to travel from Istanbul to Trabzon. Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines conduct roughly 7 flights per day between the two cities. 

The flight from Istanbul to Trabzon will last approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes and will charge roughly 45 USD, which is quite fair.

By Bus: One can also board on the overnight bus connecting Istanbul to Trabzon, however, it would last roughly 19 hours and is not recommended. Visitors will have no hassle locating the city. It will charge you roughly 27 USD to board the bus.

By Dolmus: Tourists coming during the summertime could perhaps be likely to access a direct dolmus from the east-bound dolmus stop built on the route to Sumela Monastery. In the warmer months, they depart two times a day at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

The travel to Sumela Monastery will last roughly an hour, and you will get approximately three hours to tour the monastery at your leisure.

Where to stay in Trabzon? 

There are numerous prominent hotels to select from in Trabzon, whether you're visiting for work or relaxation. Major hotels include Anemon Trabzon Otel, Radisson Blu Hotel Trabzon, and White Golden Suite Hotel.

However, if you're seeking a hotel with a spa, the Zorlu Grand Hotel, Ramada Plaza Trabzon, and Radisson Blu Hotel are all excellent options, with good ratings from travelers all over the world.

The estimated price per night for hotels in Trabzon, according to Trip.com, is USD 49. However, hotel rates fluctuate frequently, therefore this figure is only intended as a reference.