Sümela Monastery, Orthodox monastery on cliffside in Maçka, Turkey
The monastery complex extends over multiple levels on a 1200-meter-high cliff face, incorporating religious buildings, living quarters, and a spring.
Greek Orthodox monks established this religious center in 386 AD during Emperor Theodosius I's reign, maintaining continuous operation until 1923.
The interior walls display numerous frescoes from different periods depicting biblical narratives and scenes from the life of Jesus and Virgin Mary.
Visitors reach the monastery through a 1.2-kilometer zigzag path on foot or by taking a dolmuş service from the lower parking area.
A secret tunnel discovered during recent restoration works connects different sections of the monastery through the rock face.
Location: Maçka
Inception: 386
Website: https://sumela.gov.tr
GPS coordinates: 40.69000,39.65833
Latest update: May 28, 2025 18:17
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