Trabzon Travel Guide
Cosmopolitan Black Sea Harbour Town
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Trabzon’s position on the eastern shores of the Black Sea has ensured continued prosperity since it was founded in the 8th century BCE. Today it attracts visitors who come to see the dramatic cliff-side monastery at Sumela, the city’s own Aya Sofya Museum and Atatürk’s villa.
Established as a Greek colony in 746BCE Trapezus rapidly prospered on the lucrative east/west Black Sea trade route and throughout the following centuries managed to juggle alliances skilfully thus avoiding the fate of many towns that were forced to yield to the multitude of different invaders the region suffered. Today it is a cosmopolitan city with a surprising amount to offer, from the famous Sumela Monastery to museums, a bazaar quarter and the old neighbourhood of Ortahisar, west of the city centre.
Attractions in Trabzon
Most people come to Trabzon to make the journey 55km south east to the fantastic 1600 year-old hanging Monastery of the Virgin Mary at Sumela. Damaged and restored several times the latest work seeks to preserve the famous frescoes.
Within the town itself there are several notable attractions principle amongst which are the Aya Sofya Museum, a 13th century church which holds famous frescoes. Overlooking the town is Atatürk’s Villa, an impressive 3-storey villa built in the Crimean style and surrounded by pleasant grounds.
Back in town there are several historic churches now converted to mosques to discover along with pretty Ortahisar and the bazaar area where several interesting hans - Ottoman-era warehouses - can be found.
Activities in Trabzon
Allow a couple of days to see Trabzon with a day in the city and a day to make the trip out to Sumela.
Relaxing
Trabzon has several bars and though they do not tend to keep late hours they are fun, often with outdoor seating and often featuring live music.
Getting Around
The city itself is compact enough to explore on foot, though you will need to use private or public transport to reach both Sumela (accessible by bus during summer months) and Atatürk’s Villa.
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