Tensions are high in Trabzon, Turkey, as nationalist and pro-government groups pressure authorities to cancel a Greek Orthodox ceremony scheduled for August 23rd at the historic Panagia Sümela Monastery. The ceremony, marking the Assumption of Mary, is organized by the Istanbul-based Ecumenical Patriarchate.
This year’s event has been particularly contentious. Initially planned for August 15th, the anniversary of the Ottoman conquest of Trabzon, it was postponed by a week due to objections from nationalist groups. Despite the rescheduling, opposition persists, spearheaded by figures like retired admiral Cihat Yaycı, a close associate of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
Yaycı, who leads the Turkish Maritime and Global Strategies Center, argues that the ceremony promotes Greek propaganda, separatism, and anti-state activities. He has called for a public vigil to prevent the event from taking place, urging Turkish patriots to join him.
Several organizations have echoed Yaycı’s stance, including the Vatan Party and members of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), an ally of Erdoğan’s government. They argue that Sümela Monastery, currently a museum and historic site, should not be used for religious rituals.
The controversy has drawn criticism from local businesses who fear the impact on tourism. Metin İnan, president of the Uzungöl Tourism Operators Association, cautioned against politicizing tourism, highlighting the negative experiences of Arab tourists targeted in recent years due to xenophobia.
In response to the escalating situation, the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies announced that attendance at the August 23rd ceremony will be restricted to guests approved by the governor’s office. The site will be open to the public after the ceremony concludes.
This year’s events highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding religious freedom and the legacy of historical events in Turkey. The situation remains tense, with the potential for further controversy surrounding the ceremony.