Vazelon Monastery

The monastery Vazelon is a former Greek Orthodox monastery of the 6th century in the forest in the district of Macka, about 50 km south of Trabzon on a rock above the river Degirmendere ( Altindere ). It was dedicated to St. John of Vazelon.

History

The origins probably date back to the 3rd century. The actual monastery was built by Emperor Justinian in the year 565 and used as a signal station against attacks of hostile mountain tribes. It was connected by a paved path ( King Street ) to Trabzon. Over time, it has been widely expanded and restored. It was the richest monastery in the region and probably was using the money from Vazelon the Sumela monastery rebuilt after a fire in 640 again. The monastery Vazelon has strongly influenced the religious, cultural and economic life of the region. The monastery was founded in 1923 left with the Greek-Turkish population exchange, and then devastated. Today there are only ruins. With the expulsion of Greeks from Turkey during the First World War, the monastery served as a refuge for hundreds of refugees.

Building

The still visible monastery dates from the 15th century. There is a main building, where the monks' cells, kitchen, study rooms, refectory, etc. are housed. Nearby are three Byzantine chapels. The frescoes on the northern outer wall of St. John's Chapel, the Manuel III. Erected in 1410, are still well preserved and represent the heaven, hell and the last judgment dar. There is also a holy well with a cistern with vaulted ceiling.

Swell

• Turkish Ministry of Tourism
• New York Times June 16, 1918
• Baedeker Turkey

• Greek - orthodox monastery
• Monastery ( 6th century )
• Church buildings in Turkey
• Former monastery in Turkey
• Trabzon Province