The city that comes at the end of the sentences that start with ‘You would like it if this was Sweden’: Trabzon. Trabzon is the rambunctious city of the Black Sea, which fascinates everyone from 7 to 70 with its nature. Moreover, it is absolutely true that it is a stone stone to countries such as Sweden and Norway, which are renowned for their natural beauties. The Black Sea region has a special place for all citizens of Turkey. A different culture, a different history and of course blue and green as far as the eye can see… It is also one of the cities where we can taste all kinds of anchovies. Did you know that anchovies can also be eaten as dessert? Anyway, let’s get back to our topic.
This city has been home to so many peoples from Greeks to Laz, from Turks to Armenians that we have learned to cherish its differences as it reflects the colourful traditions of peoples. The best part of this diversity, which has contributed to both the cuisine and the character of Trabzon in many ways, is of course the many places to visit. Churches, monasteries, mosques, synagogues, castles, mansions and many more… These are just a few of what awaits you in Trabzon. Because this city harbours much more in its mountains than what it carries on its streets.
Let us remind you before starting the article: Don’t forget to download the Piri Guide mobile application to visit Trabzon step by step with your personal and digital tour guide!
Where is Trabzon?
Let’s take a look at where Trabzon is known for its cultural heritage. The rebel child of our country is located in the Black Sea Region. This city at the foot of the Eastern Black Sea Mountains is neighbouring Giresun, Gümüşhane, Bayburt and Rize from the inside and shares the same sea with Russia, Bulgaria, Romania, Georgia and Ukraine outside.
How to get to Trabzon?
The best option for travelling to Trabzon from anywhere in Turkey is by plane. We can say that the highway takes quite a long time due to the parallel mountains of the Black Sea. Of course, when travelling from nearby cities such as Giresun and Rize, private car or bus can be preferred.
When to go to Trabzon?
Unlike many cities, spring is not a suitable period for visiting Trabzon. Because in the region, which is rainy all year round, most of the rain falls in spring. On the other hand, autumn is an extraordinary season for Trabzon, where you can see the sights just before the winter cold covers the city with a white blanket. Summer is of course the best option. Because the warm weather allows you to go to the plateaus and feel like the owner of the world in front of the view offered by the plateau house you look out of the window 🙂 On the other hand, all important festivals of the city are organised in this season. You can take a look at each of them here .
What to Eat in Trabzon?
Although anchovies come to mind first when it comes to the Black Sea, there are many more seafood products in the wide range of Trabzon cuisine. For example, stuffed bonito and sour mullet. Apart from these flavours, which are usually served fresh in coastal restaurants, you should definitely try the dessert called kukuca, hodan pastry, gongoş wrap and guliya.
Places to visit in Trabzon
Trabzon Hagia Sophia Mosque
Built in the 13th century, Trabzon Hagia Sophia is one of the 5 Hagia Sophia mosques in our country. Like the other buildings that emulate the example in Istanbul, Trabzon Hagia Sophia Mosque is both visually and audibly impressive. What sets it apart are the iconic statuettes on its facade. We can say that these decorations on the three-arched entrance door have given the building its character. Inside, mosaics, frescoes and frame arrangements will be waiting for you. Do you know the connection between the Genoese sailors and Trabzon Hagia Sophia Mosque? Let us tell you that you can learn with Piri Guide.
Zağnos Bridge and Walls
Zağnos Walls, which were built to protect the city from the outside, are now inside the city. We can say that the bridge built by Zağnos Pasha, the vizier of Fatih Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror, still preserves its original position. Behind the bridge, inside the city walls, a park designed in accordance with the nature of Trabzon welcomes us.
Trabzon Museum
Also known as Kostaki Mansion, today’s Trabzon Museum, was built in the late 19th century. At first glance at the mansion, you cannot see the arrangements you are used to. Because this place is a reflection of Trabzon’s rich culture. Especially the pencil decorations in the interior still preserve their uniqueness and continue to fascinate those who see them. In the early 20th century, this mansion changed hands, then it started to serve as a government mansion and since 2001 as a museum.
Girls Monastery
Girls Monastery is one of the intact buildings with decorations that preserve its originality, dated to the 14th century and intriguing despite its worn-out appearance. Restored around the 19th century, the Girls Monastery has now been turned into a museum. The view of the Black Sea from its windows and the panoramic view of Boztepe is enough to add the Girls’ Monastery to the lists as a must-see place.
Sumela Monastery
We all know that iconic photograph. Sümela Monastery, which is carved into the mountain, makes you ask ‘how did these people get up here’ and resists time… The monastery, which offers an intertwined image of yellow on top, green underneath and turquoise tones on the side, is located in Montenegro. You can listen to the story of the formation of Sümela, one of the most impressive structures in the world, with Piri Guide.
Known for its holy water that purifies the soul and its splendour, the story of Sümela Monastery, which started in the 4th century AD, is actually enriched with the acceptance of Christianity. People from all over the world flock here for coronation ceremonies. The monastery complex is home to guard cells, priest wards, ayazma, library, dormitory, healing centre and of course the cave church. The first factor that makes Sumela Monastery fascinating is of course its location, and then the finely crafted frescoes stand out. It is adorned with so many and detailed decorations that you may need to spend hours to examine it.
Uzungöl
We would not be exaggerating if we say that a piece of paradise, which has fallen into nature, is incomplete to describe Uzungöl. A small village was added to a magnificent view seen through tall trees. Although there are many houses and buildings around the lake today, we know that the reason why people go to Uzungöl is the unique views. When covered with snow, Uzungol offers a photo not unlike Norwegian villages, and postcard-like frames where the plateau, forest and sky blend together as far as the eye can see await you. You can find transport information, photos and much more about Uzungol here .
