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Şeytan Castle
Ardahan · 36.2km from downtown
Lake Cildir
Ardahan · 437m from downtown
Sahara Plateau
Artvin · 25.3km from Ardahan
Canibeg Yaylası
Ardahan · 38km from downtown
Cenkelek yaylası
Ardahan · 23.3km from downtown
Sümela Monastery
The Black Sea region has long been a crossroads of diverse civilizations, fostering a profound history and rich cultural heritage. Perched on the steep cliffs of the Altındere Valley in Trabzon,Sümela Monasteryis undoubtedly one of the most impressive landmarks in this land. The name 'Sümela' comes from the Greek word 'melas', meaning 'black'. Road signs leading to the monastery display the Turkish name 'Meryem Ana' (Virgin Mary), guiding visitors to this sacred site. Millennial sacred site: Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the monastery was founded in the 4th century. Legend has it that two monks from Athens, Barnabas and Sophronius, were guided by the Virgin Mary to this mountainous region, where they discovered an icon of Mary in a cave and subsequently built the monastery. Another theory suggests the monastery was commissioned by a Byzantine emperor to spread the faith, after which it maintained close ties with the imperial family. Over the past millennium, the monastery has undergone periods of abandonment, expansion, and restoration. Yet, even today, these frescoes offer a glimpse into its former glory. Architectural aesthetics: Situated at an altitude of approx. 1200 m, the monastery is built into the mountainside. The complex is arranged along the cliff, forming an independent courtyard system. Cave structures are embedded in the rock face, connected to external semi-circular buildings, with interior and exterior walls covered in exquisite frescoes. Most of the existing frescoes were restored in 1740 and remain vibrant. Although the original Byzantine-era paintings from a millennium ago no longer exist, one can still feel the weight of history and the solemnity of religious faith. Hidden route: The hike up to the monastery is a spiritual cleansing and a journey of discovery. Along the way, you can overlook the green valley and layered mountains. Once inside, feel the echoes of a thousand years of history in the tranquility.Sümela Monasteryis not only a cultural treasure of Türkiye, but also an important window for exploring the history, religion, and artistic heritage of the Black Sea.Türkiye · Altindere Mahallesi
Double Minaret Madrasa
The Twin Towers Theological Seminary, built in the 12th century, is an iconic building in Elzurum. Its two towering brick towers are particularly striking and a must-see when visiting the city.Türkiye · Erzurum
Ishak Pasha Palace
Ishak Pasha Palace took 99 years to build and features a mausoleum, a very interesting pulpit, kitchens, a harem, and more, with approx. 360 rooms in total.Türkiye · Yukaritavla Koyu
Calkoy Cave
Calkoy Cave in Duzkoy, Trabzon Province, Türkiye, is a natural wonder hidden in the mountains. As a popular tourist destination in the Black Sea region, this cave, shaped by nearly 8 million years of geological change, attracts visitors from across the world. Although the cave's total length reaches 8 km, the section open to visitors is about 1 km. Along the route, you can see pan-shaped depressions in the limestone formed by erosion, accompanied by underground lakes and waterfalls that create especially striking scenery. The cave is filled with stalactites and stalagmites of various shapes, and under carefully arranged lighting they form an astonishing underground panorama. Thanks to natural fissures that allow air to circulate, walking through the cave feels like strolling through a quiet mountain valley. Because the cave is consistently very cold year-round and the paths can be slippery due to underground streams, visitors should bring a warm jacket and wear non-slip shoes.Türkiye · Calkoy Mahallesi
Ziyaret Tepesi
Ardahan · 10.5km from downtown
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What travellers say about Ardahan
目指せ11816 April 2023
5.0
The monastery is located just under an hour's drive from the city of Trabzon and is built literally clinging to the cliff.
Sümela Monastery