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Çakırkaya Monastery in Gümüşhane awaits urgent restoration
The Çakırkaya Monastery, located in the Şiran district of Gümüşhane, Turkey, is facing significant deterioration due to neglect and human interference. Carved into a 65-meter-high rock formation, the site is often referred to as the ‘Sümela of Gümüşhane’ due to its unique architecture and historical importance.
While its exact construction date is unknown, historical sources suggest the monastery dates back to between the 13th and 15th centuries. It was notably reorganized by Bishop Jeremias Georgiades in 1848. Local oral traditions suggest the site was once a major religious center for Greek populations in the Black Sea region.
Despite being officially registered for protection in 2016, the monastery has suffered damage from treasure hunters and unauthorized human activities. Although restoration and rehabilitation projects have been prepared, local residents and officials are calling for urgent action to restore the site and integrate it into regional tourism, particularly given its proximity to the Tomara Waterfall.
Entities
Baysal Kaya · Gümüşhane · Jeremias Georgiades · Çakırkaya Monastery · Şiran
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how well corroborated each claim is across sources.
- [● 5 SOURCES] The site has suffered damage from treasure hunting and human intervention. www.mynet.com · www.haber7.com · www.gazetebirlik.com
- [● 5 SOURCES] The monastery is estimated to have been built between the 13th and 15th centuries. www.mynet.com · www.haber7.com · www.gazetebirlik.com
- [● 5 SOURCES] The monastery was carved into a rock mass approximately 65 meters high. www.mynet.com · www.haber7.com · www.gazetebirlik.com
- [● 5 SOURCES] The historical structure was officially registered in 2016. www.mynet.com · www.haber7.com · www.gazetebirlik.com
- [● 5 SOURCES] Bishop Jeremias Georgiades reorganized the structure in 1848. www.mynet.com · www.haber7.com · www.gazetebirlik.com