The 6th century AD monastery is famous for being the residence of Simeon Stylites the Younger, who lived atop a column for 40 years. The rectangular building complex, measuring 132 x 160 metres and situated on a 479-metre hill, is a combination of rock-carved and cut-stone structures. It includes three churches, a baptistery, an octagonal courtyard, and the column of St. Simeon at its centre. Additionally, there are cisterns, houses, kitchens, cellars, and other facilities in the vicinity. St. Simeon received religious education at a young age and devoted himself to God. He came to this mountain and began living here. As his fame grew, visitors flocked to the area. Despite his youth, he was believed to have the power to cure diseases, leading to the mountain being called the Hill of Wonders. St. Simeon arrived here in 541 AD and passed away in 592 AD.
SİMENA ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
