Sümela & Altındere

Sümela and Altındere offer one of the most impressive combinations of cultural heritage and mountain scenery in the Trabzon region. Located south of the city in the Pontic Mountains, the area is known for its dramatic cliffs, dense forests and one of the most famous monasteries in Türkiye. Sümela Monastery is built into a steep rock face high above the Altındere Valley. Founded in the Byzantine period and expanded over many centuries, the monastery became an important religious centre dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The complex includes chapels, living quarters, kitchens, student rooms, a library and other monastic spaces arranged across the cliffside. Its unusual location demonstrates how religious communities adapted the mountainous landscape to create a place of worship and seclusion. One of the most remarkable parts of Sümela is the Rock Church, whose interior and exterior walls preserve important frescoes. These paintings depict biblical scenes, saints and religious figures and reflect the artistic traditions of the Byzantine and later periods. The monastery’s elevated position also provides spectacular views across Altındere Valley. Forested mountains, steep cliffs and flowing streams surround the site, creating one of the most dramatic cultural landscapes in the Black Sea region. Altındere Valley National Park protects this rich natural environment around Sümela. The park is characterised by dense forests, mountain streams, waterfalls and walking routes that allow visitors to experience the cool and green landscape of the eastern Black Sea. The national park also supports a wide variety of plant and wildlife species, making it attractive for nature walks, photography and scenic excursions in addition to visits to the monastery. Together, Sümela Monastery and Altındere Valley National Park offer a unique combination of Byzantine heritage and Black Sea nature. Cliffside architecture, historic frescoes and dramatic mountain scenery make the area one of the most memorable destinations around Trabzon.