Main Attractions in Trabzon

Places of interest in Trabzon are so many that you need quite some time to explore each of them.

• Constructed in the 14th century, the Sumela monastery stands on the side of a very steep mountain with thick forest below. Two 7th century Greek monks, Barnaby and Sophronios had the main building constructed, later an anonymous artist Trabizond painted it.
  
  
• The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin and the monastery complex comprised 5 floors with 72 rooms. A sizeable part of the building was carved out of the rock. The entire building is wrapped up in frescoes and wall paintings.
  
  
• Ayasofya (Saint Sophia) Museum is the most eminent structure in Trabzon. Now the 13th century Church has been converted to a museum.
  
  
• The Gulbahar Hatun Mosque is certainly the most interesting mosque in the city. Other important mosques are the 16th century mosques Hatip and Iskender Pasha.
  
  
• The historical houses in the back streets are really worth seeing. Amongst them The Kizlar Manastiri (Girls` Monastery) instantly transports you to the bygone days of the Comnenian Period in the fourteenth century. Even the Irene Tower is also a must in your itinerary.
  
  
• St. Sophia Museum`s history dates back to days of King Manuel I of Kommenos in 13th century. Muslim Seljuk stone artisans built the Church and the work continued till 1670 i.e. after the Ottoman invasion when it was turned into a mosque.
  
  
• The Ataturk mansion built by a wealthy Greek Banker, Konstantinos Kappagianidis is a major tourist destination. Ataturk stayed here twice, in 1930 and 1937.
  
  
• Make a point to visit Uzungol to enjoy the rich natural bounty.