Turkey is a Muslim country, but interestingly enough, just outside of Trabzon, you can find the remarkable Sumela Monastery. The structure, built literally into the side of a cliff was home to monks for several hundred years. It was later abandoned and left to the mercy of the public who as you can probably guess managed to vandalize this historical place. The Monastery is now once again gaining in popularity but the recently instituted entrance fee is going to repair and restore the monastery from years of abuse. It was definitely worth the trip on our way out of town.
