The monastery of Soumela and ancient trade routes connected to it

Abstract

It is a well known fact that trade routes and temples had a close relation. It is not possible to exempt monasteries from this generalization. It is inevitable to build connection between trade and three monasteries located in the area where trade routes passing. The Monastery of Soumela comes front among the rest two with its unique location on summer trade route. Watch towers and camel inns at the vicinity of the Monastery prove this fact. Another important aspect related to Soumela Monastery and her connection to the trade routes is the demographic structure and settlement of villages located on the trade destinations. Especially travelers’ memoirs and registers of Ottoman Empire show that for a long period there was a lively economy in the region. Field surveys at the last years also show the importance of trade routes passing from the region.

Keywords

• Kolat
• Soumela
• Trade Routes
• Sameruksa
• Tax Books
• Camel Caravans