Tourexpi
Centuries-old frescoes at Sumela Monastery in northeastern Türkiye undergo meticulous restoration
Centuries-old frescoes that decorate the walls of the world-renowned
Sumela Monastery in Türkiye’s Black Sea province of Trabzon are being meticulously
restored to their original splendor.
Also known as Mother Mary or Virgin Mary, the fourth-century
monastery overlooks lush Altindere Valley from its 300-meter (984-feet) perch on
the side of Mount Karadag, where it is carved into the rock.
Sumela Monastery, listed as a tentative UNESCO world heritage
site, was reopened for religious practice on Aug. 15, 2010, after a hiatus of 88
years.
Fresco restoration work began this May, led by Türkiye's
General Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Museums, which operates under the country's
Culture and Tourism Ministry. The project focuses on repairing damage caused during
past visits using undertone and acqua sporca techniques.
The Trabzon Restoration and Conservation Regional Laboratory
Directorate has been leading the restoration, bringing scenes like "The Last
Supper" back to life.
Restorer Senol Aktas said they aim to offer visitors a
better visual experience. "We remove these writings, scratches or traces of
vandalism on the frescoes with the methods we call 'undertone' and 'acqua sporca'
and present a better image," Aktas told Anadolu.
Another restorer, Beytullah Arslan, added that urgent stabilization
measures were being taken in areas at risk of deterioration. The restoration process
follows rigorous documentation, paint, and plaster analysis protocols.
"We use authentic materials and techniques to ensure
the closest match to the original paintings," Arslan said.
Image
Credit: © AA
The most interesting news
Vibrant Guizhou, China's World-Class Tourist Destination
On August 31, Guizhou, known as "A Park Province of China," where you can find exceptional mountainous terrains and hills, is promoting its breathtaking landscapes and culinary delights in Washington, D.C., the United States. Join People's Daily Onli
US Remains the World’s Most Powerful Travel and Tourism Market
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) today launched its 2024 Economic Impact Trends Report, which has revealed the U.S. as the world’s most powerful Travel & Tourism market, contributing a record-breaking $2.36 TN to the nation’s economy las
Montevideo to Host Office for the Tourism Law Observatory for Latin America and the Caribbean
The first thematic office of UN Tourism will be based in the region of the Americas and will focus on legal issues.
Four Experiences to Enjoy Urban Leisure in Panama
Marriott International suggests four ideas to spend a fun-filled vacation exploring the urban side of Panama.
Emirates doubles partnership connectivity in a year
Opening opportunities for travellers to reach nearly 1,700 global cities beyond its network.
Emirates extends onboard Spirits and Beer menu with 10 new premium additions
As part of the world’s best beverage in the sky selection, Emirates is enhancing its extensive menu of spirits, beers, wines and champagnes, with ten new premium spirits and beers recently introduced onboard.
TikTok Travelers: Gen Z’s Dream Destinations
Whether it’s jet-setting or sitting pretty on a staycation, Gen Z travelers are trusting the trends and turning to TikTok for their next adventure. Whether Gen Z is reviving the classic road trip or packing for the pool, Hilton’s global portfolio
Holland America Line's 2026 Alaska Cruise Season Offers Front-Row Seat to the Wild Wonders
Guests can experience Alaska's majestic glaciers, wildlife sightings and destination-focused cuisine on a variety of cruises, including new 14-day roundtrip Seattle voyage.
UN Tourism and FIA Reinforce Partnership to Advance Sustainable Sports Tourism
UN Tourism and the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), have partnered to advance Sports Tourism on a global scale.
Elie Bruyninckx, CEO TUI Western Region, leaves TUI Group after more than 20 successful years
Elie Bruyninckx, CEO Western Region and member of the Group Executive Committee, has decided to leave TUI to pursue other activities outside the Group.
Festival enhances Guizhou's cultural bond with the US
Southwest China's Guizhou province made a grand appearance at the 22nd Washington Chinese Cultural Festival on Aug 31, Washington time, in the United States. Its promotional culture and tourism event was a major highlight of the festival.
The Peninsula Istanbul Wins One To Watch Award As Part Of The World´s 50 Best Hotels 2024
Opened in 2023, within the new Galataport development, The Peninsula Istanbul occupies a quartet of graceful waterfront buildings in one of the city's oldest neighbourhoods.
Ilma, the Newest Superyacht From The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Makes Its Debut
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s latest yacht presents an exceptional guest experience.
Eva Air Unveils Hello Kitty Besties Jet
EVA Air, a leading carrier in the aviation industry, is thrilled to announce the launch of its newest Hello Kitty® Besties Jet. The jet departed its inaugural flight BR55 on August 29, 2024, from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and is en
68th U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry to Headline WTTC Global Summit
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) today announces 68th U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry as its keynote speaker at the global tourism body’s Global Summit, taking place on 8th – 10th October, in Perth, Western Australia.
Exploring Albania's enchanting nature one unique adventure at a time
The Official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2025 is a rising destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering diverse landscapes perfect for hiking, rafting, paragliding, and birdwatching.
Belgium's historic city Bruges set to ban new Airbnb rentals amid over-tourism
UNESCO World Heritage site undertakes efforts to tackle over-tourism, preserve city’s quality of life.
Hyatt Place Expands in The State of Maharashtra with Hyatt Place Aurangabad Airport
The property is conveniently located 1km from the airport and close to the city’s business district.
voco hotels opens doors to voco Stockholm - Kista in Sweden’s ‘Silicon Valley’
Embrace a dynamic blend of tech and culture, in Stockholm’s most diverse district, where innovations in music, design, fashion and technology are born.
Golf tourism bookings up in Türkiye's famed Mediterranean city of Antalya
Reservations surge 15% at golf resort in southwestern Türkiye, hosting prominent golfers from all around world.
Hilton Leads as Asia’s Top Hospitality Workplace for 8th Consecutive Year
Leading hospitality company, Hilton (NYSE: HLT), announced that it has once again been recognized as the highest-ranking hospitality company on Great Place to Work®'s "Best Workplaces in Asia™" list for the eighth consecutive year.
