The Legend of Sumela Monastery

Located in Machka district of Trabzon province, Sumela Monastery is one of the oldest historical buildings. It was installed on the slope of Zigana Mount in a very difficult place for building. In the depths of the building flows Merieman stream. 

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Legends are circulating around the idea and construction of the monastery. According to legend, the monastery was founded by two priests from Athens, Barnabas and Sophronius. These two priests saw Jesus and the Virgin Mary in a dream in the place where Sumela later appeared.

Independently of each other, these two priests set off on their way, unexpectedly meeting, told each other about what they had seen in a dream. The foundation of the monastery was laid by joint efforts.

It was originally called the Monastery of the Virgin Mary. Managed - its modern Greek name. It is assumed that the construction of the monastery took place in 395 AD.

During the Trebizond Empire under Alexei III, new elements were added to this creation. In this regard, there is evidence in favor of the founding of the monastery by Alexei III.

The Sumela Monastery is, of course, one of the revered Christian shrines. And one of the reasons for this is associated with the name of the Virgin Mary. It is believed that the portrait of the Virgin Mary, painted by one of the apostles of Jesus Christ, Luke, came here with the first founding priests. However, to this day, the portrait has not been found.

At some points, the monastery was raided and plundered and, thanks to the efforts of treasure hunters, after a while turned into ruins. Many valuables were lost during the fires.

After the arrival of the conqueror of Trabzon, Fatih Sultan Mehmet, a decree was issued on the inviolability of the monastery. Yavuz Sultan Selim donated two large candelabra. Various rulers, with their care and patronage, contributed to the further development of the monastery complex.

As for the possibility to get to the monastery, you can get to some place by transport. Further, from the depths of the forest, a footpath is visible. Long narrow staircases lead to the monastery buildings.

Recently, efforts have been made by the Turkish leadership to restore the monastery. It is now open to the public. For the city of Trabzon, the Sumela Monastery is certainly of great value in terms of tourist activity. Thousands of people visit these places every year. 

In 2010, by special agreement, a ceremony was held here in honor of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. This was the first celebration after a long 88-year hiatus.