The imposing complex of the Dionysiou Monastery was built on the rocky overcrop in two main construction phases. The first dates back to the time of its original founding by Saint Dionysios at the end of the 14th century, and was funded by Alexios III Komnenos, Emperor of Trebizond. The second – and the most visible in the Monastery as it exists today – was the restoration and expansion of structures by the rulers of Wallachia and Moldavia in the 16th century. On the summit of the rocky outcrop stand the cathedral and the tower. The narrow central courtyard is protected by the surrounding wings and outer walls.
