The Turkish city of Trabzon is one of the most picturesque locations on the country's Black Sea coast. It was here that representatives of Turkmen mass media arrived as part of a press tour. The aim of the trip was to become acquainted with the historical and cultural heritage of the region, to assess its tourism potential, and to share their impressions with their compatriots.

Over several eventful days, the tour participants had the opportunity to see the main attractions of Trabzon and its surroundings, immersing themselves in the atmosphere of a city where ancient history harmoniously blends with natural beauty.

Trabzon greets travelers with green hills, fresh air, and a view of the Black Sea. It is surrounded by a chain of mountains covered in dense forests, waterfalls, and winding rivers – a true paradise for lovers of nature and landscapes. Historically, the city was situated at the crossroads of trade routes and served as an important port, and today it attracts tourists with its rich architecture, charming districts, and traditional culture.

Sumela Monastery One of the first impressive sights of the city was the Sumela Monastery, a gem of the Byzantine era founded in the 4th century. It literally rises from a sheer cliff face at an altitude of over 1200 meters. The road offers a breathtaking view: the stone building, seemingly suspended between the sky and the earth, is nestled in the greenery of the Mela Mountains. This monastery is not only an architectural marvel but also a spiritual site, attracting pilgrims, tourists, and connoisseurs of ancient history.

Hagia Sophia Church The next stop was the Hagia Sophia Church, built in the 13th century. It is one of the most striking examples of Byzantine architecture in the region. Here, religious solemnity and artistic splendor are combined – mosaics, frescoes, and elegant interior details. Today, the building functions as both a museum and a mosque, demonstrating the multilayered culture of Trabzon.

Atatürk Mansion A special place on the itinerary was the Atatürk Mansion – one of the symbols of Trabzon. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, stayed in this house during his visits to the city. Here, among the exquisite architecture of the early 20th century, the memory of crucial historical moments is preserved. It was in this mansion that Atatürk made his famous statement about transferring all his assets to the state treasury. The house was opened as a museum in 1943 and today offers a unique opportunity to touch the history of Turkiye.

Historical Ortamahalle District The Ortamahalle district in Akçaabat became a true discovery – a place where time seems to have stood still. Narrow cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era stone houses, and a peaceful atmosphere transform a walk into a journey into the past. Since 1988, the district has been protected as architectural heritage. It is particularly pleasant here to take photographs, taste local dishes, and simply enjoy the spirit of old Turkey. Boztepe – Tea with a View of the City It is impossible to visit Trabzon and not stop by the Boztepe tea garden – an observation deck with a breathtaking view of the city and the Black Sea. This is an excellent place to relax at the end of a busy day. Drinking Turkish tea at a height, watching the sunset over the sea, is one of the most pleasant memories that will remain after the trip.

Useful Tips for Turkmen Tourists

Transportation: Trabzon is a city on hills. It is best to travel by car with an experienced driver. Local roads can resemble a roller coaster: steep ascents, turns, and descents are a common landscape. Climate: Summer here is warm and humid, winter is cool and cloudy. Precipitation falls regularly throughout the year, so an umbrella or waterproof clothing will not be superfluous. The rainiest month is October, the driest is July. Cuisine: Special attention should be paid to dishes made from fresh fish. Trabzon is famous for its Black Sea region cuisine, and trying local specialties is a mandatory part of the program.

Photography: Many places, especially Ortamahalle and Sumela, are excellent for photos that will adorn your social media and become a memory of the trip.

The Tour Through the Eyes of Turkmen Journalists

The visit to Trabzon was a bright start to a broader press tour of the Turkish Black Sea coast, during which the Turkmen delegation also traveled to Rize. Such trips not only broaden cultural horizons but also strengthen friendship between countries.

The press tour was organized with the assistance of the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey.

To be continued: Rize – the capital of Turkish tea