TRABZON

Trabzon was founded in the 8th century and after a succession of names originating from Trapezus, it was called Trebizond. The Roman and Byzantine rule, especially during the Hadrian and Justinian periods, contributed much to the city, and the independent kingdom of Trapezuntine lasted the longest among all the Byzantine kingdoms, despite being located virtually in a sea of Turkish tribes. Passing onto Ottoman rule under Mehmed II, Trabizond was one of the main training grounds for future sultans. The great sultans Selim I and Süleyman the Magnificent initially served as governors in Trabzon. It is known for the Monastery of Sumela - a most prestigious and well preserved monastery built high in the mountains, during Byzantine times. Sumela, the Virgin of the Black Rock, in Pontic Greek, has been venerated on this site since 385 B.C. when an Athenian monk Barbaras arrived with an icon supposedly painted by St. Luke.