Kurşunlu Monastery, built in ancient times at an altitude of 900 metres on Mykale, also known as Samson Mountains, has become an important stop on the routes of history and nature lovers.
The Kurşunlu Monastery, believed to have been built in honor of Virgin Mary, is located approximately 12 kilometers away from Davutlar Neighborhood in the district of Kuşadası, Aydın province. It sits at an altitude of 600 meters within the boundaries of the Dilek Peninsula National Park.
In the 8th century, the Kurşunlu Monastery in the Davutlar region, which became one of the centres that emerged as a result of an intense Christian migration, became a suitable environment for the clergy fleeing from oppression, where they could hide and live their religious obligations.
The monastery, which the Greeks called Panagia Kursunniatissa, was dedicated to the Virgin Mary, as the name suggests.
The name Kurşunlu is probably derived from the lead covering the buildings.
It is believed that the Byzantine monastery was used until the 19th century.
In the monastery, the dining hall, pantry, kitchen, monk rooms, infirmary, chapel (small church), necropolis (cemetery), monastery waters and defence walls are still clearly visible despite the great destruction.
In the frescoes on the chapel ceiling, symbolic and geometric motifs as well as events or figures related to religion are depicted.
The restoration works, which began in 2021, are continuing at the monastery, which has been awaiting attention for many years.
Situated at an altitude of 900 meters amidst unique plant diversity, the Kurşunlu Monastery, hidden in the east of the Dilek Peninsula Büyük Menderes Delta National Park, has also started to be included in the routes of nature hiking groups.
Cover Photo: IHA
Source: Aydın Kusadasi Cultural and Historical Heritage Conservation Association
