Lift system to be built at Sumela

TRABZON - Doğan News Agency

DHA Photo

The Sumela Monastery, which was built in the 4th century A.D. in the northern province of Trabzon’s Maçka district, is rushed by some 600,000 tourists annually, and a new lift system has been planned to help give them easier access to the monastery’s amazing location. 

Located on a steep cliff at an altitude of about 1,300 meters facing the Altındere valley, the monastery, thought to be built between 365 and 395 A.D., is a site of great historical and cultural significance, as well as a major tourist attraction within Altındere National Park. 

It was reopened for religious use on Aug. 15, 2010, after an 88-year hiatus with the permission of the Culture and Tourism Ministry. Mass has been conducted there on Aug. 15 every year since then.

The historic monastery has been the target of treasure hunters and has also been damaged by fires, though restoration efforts have been completed. 

Currently visitors can reach the monastery with difficulty by walking, or by driving part of the way.