There are so many fantastic and beautiful things to do in Greece. From world-class ancient sites and museums to hills and mountains covered in history. But, visitors often miss out on the fantastic monasteries in Greece. If you’re looking for different things to do in Greece, then here’s my personal choice of some of the most stunning monasteries in Greece you need to see.
The Most Stunning Monasteries in Greece You Need to See
Panagia Hozoviotissa Monastery, Amorgos (Moni Hozoviotissa Monastery, Amorgos)
We kick off the list with one of my favourites: The Panagia Hozoviotissa Monastery on the Greek island of Amorgos in the Cyclades. It’s a Greek Orthodox monastery built about 300m above the sea in the 11th century, named after Saint John the Theologian. The monastery is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday throughout April to October but is closed on Sundays. Inside the monastery, there are many artefacts and paintings that date back centuries, and you are allowed to take photographs inside the monastery.
The monastery is a popular tourist destination, and many people visit it yearly. The monastery has a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs and books about the monastery’s history. This monastery is also a place of pilgrimage for Orthodox Christians. Every year, pilgrims come from all over Greece to Amorgos to celebrate the event at the Feast of the Transfiguration.
The views from the monastery are absolutely spectacular, and you can see for miles. There are many steps to get to the top of the cliff, but it is worth it. I highly recommend visiting the Moni Hozoviotissa Monastery if you are visiting Amorgos. It is a beautiful place with a lot of history.
Monastery of the life-giving Spring, Poros (Moni Zoodochou Pigis Monastery, Poros)
The Monastery of the life-giving Spring is a beautiful and historical place. Also known as Moni Zoodochou Pigis Monastery, it is located on the Greek island of Poros in the Saronic Gulf.
The monastery was founded in the early 13th century and is named after Saint George, who is said to have appeared to a local shepherd in a dream and told him to build a church on that spot. It is home to many beautiful artefacts and paintings and a gift shop selling souvenirs and local produce.
The best time to visit the monastery is during one of the festivals it celebrates when the atmosphere is particularly wonderful, and there are often processions and other events taking place.
The monastery is a popular tourist destination for those interested in history and religion. It is also a place of pilgrimage for many Orthodox Christians.
The monastery complex includes the church of Saint George, the main building housing the monks’ cells, a guesthouse, a library, and a museum. The church is particularly beautiful, with its ornate iconostasis and stunning frescoes. The monastery also has an extensive collection of icons dating back to the 14th century. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds and learn about its history from the resident monks.
Moni Katharon Monastery, Ithaki
The Moni Katharon Monastery is a Greek Orthodox monastery located on the island of Ithaki. The monastery was built in the 12th century and is named after Saint Katherine of Alexandria. The monastery is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, from 9 am to 3 pm. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.
The monastery is on the top of a hill overlooking the town of Ithakii. It has a small chapel, which is also open to visitors. The monastery also has a small museum, which displays some of the artefacts found on the island.
Holy Monastery of Platytera, Corfu
The Holy Monastery of Platytera is a Greek Orthodox monastery located on the island of Corfu in the Ionian sea. The monastery was built in the 14th century and is named after the Virgin Mary. The monastery is open to visitors all year round and is a popular tourist destination.
The monastery is in the village of Platytera, situated in the northeastern part of Corfu. The village itself is home to several other monasteries and churches, as well as several shops and restaurants.
The monastery is open to visitors all year round, with opening times varying depending on the season. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds, which include some buildings and gardens. The main church at the monastery is open to visitors, and mass is held every Sunday.
Faneromeni Monastery, Lefkada (Church of the Panagia Odigitria, Lefkada)
The Faneromeni Monastery is a Greek Orthodox monastery located on the island of Lefkada in the Ionian Sea. The monastery is also known by its other name, the Church of the Panagia Odigitria. Founded in the 16th century and named after its patron saint, the Virgin Mary, the monastery is located in a beautiful setting, surrounded by olive groves and with views of the sea.
Visitors can explore the monastery grounds, visit the church and see the artefacts and religious objects inside. The monastery also has a gift shop selling souvenirs and local produce.
OPen all year round, the Faneromeni Monastery is a popular tourist destination and is one of the most visited sites on the island of Lefkada.
Monastery of the Holy Trinity, Meteora
The Monastery of the Holy Trinity (Agia Triada or Ayías Triádhos or Ayia Triada, all meaning “Holy Trinity”) is an Eastern Orthodox monastery in the Peneas Valley northeast of the town of Kalambaka.
Constructed between the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries and is included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites titled Meteora, and is situated at the top of a rocky precipice over 400 metres high. It forms part of 24 monasteries initially built at Meteora, one of the oldest still existing of the Meteora monasteries (Meteora means “suspended in the air” in Greek).
The history of building monasteries on top of perilous cliffs near Meteora occurred between the 14th and 15th centuries. Even before this, in the 11th century, religious communities had established hermitages at the foot of these cliffs.
Holy Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna, Corfu (Moni Panagia of Vlacherna, Corfu)
The Holy Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna is a Greek Orthodox monastery located on the island of Corfu. The monastery was built in the 16th century and is named after the Virgin Mary. Open to visitors all year round, the monastery is located in the town of Lefkimmi. It is situated on a hill overlooking the sea.
The monastery is built in the traditional Byzantine style. It consists of two main buildings, the church and the monastic cells. The church is decorated with icons and frescoes, and a small museum houses some of the monastery’s treasures. The Holy Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, making it the perfect place to enjoy stunning views of Corfu.
Holy Monastery of St John Lagada, Zakynthos
The Holy Monastery of St John Lagada is located on the Greek island of Zakynthos in the Ionian Sea. The monastery was built in the early 16th century and is named after Saint John the Baptist. The monastery is home to several artefacts and religious objects and hosts several festivals throughout the year.
Nea Moni, Chios (Nea Moni of Chios)
The Nea Moni is a monastery located on the island of Chios in Greece. It has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery was built in the 11th century and is one of the oldest monasteries in Greece.
The monastery is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views and is home to several important artefacts and religious objects. Visitors to Nea Moni can explore the monastery grounds, take photos of the beautiful buildings, and purchase souvenirs from the gift shop.
Nea Moni is a must-visit for anyone travelling to the Greek island of Chios. The monastery is one of the most important historical sites on the island. It offers visitors a unique insight into the island’s past. The views from Nea Moni are simply breathtaking and not to be missed.
Monastery Transfiguration of the Saviour, Zakynthos
The Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour is a Greek Orthodox monastery located on the island of Zakynthos. The monastery was built in the 16th century and is one of the oldest monasteries on the island. The monastery is named after Saint Dionysios, the patron saint of Zakynthos, and is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views.
The monastery is on a hilltop overlooking the town of Zakynthos and the Ionian Sea town. The monastery grounds are surrounded by olive trees and cypress trees. The monastery has a large church decorated with icons and frescoes.
The Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour is open to visitors all year round. Visitors can tour the monastery grounds and learn about the history of the monastery and its patron saint. The church also has a bell tower, which offers views of the surrounding area. The monks at the monastery offer tours in English and Greek.
Sacred Monastery of Agios Gerasimos, Kefalonia
The Sacred Monastery of Agios Gerasimos is a Greek Orthodox monastery located on the island of Kefalonia. The monastery was built in the 16th century and is named after Saint Gerasimos, the patron saint of Kefalonia. The monastery is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views.
The monastery is located on a hilltop overlooking the town of Lixouri and has a museum with exhibits on the history of Kefalonia and the life of Saint Gerasimos.
It is open to visitors all year round, and you can even take a tour of the monastery, visit the museum, and attend mass at the church. There is also a gift shop selling souvenirs and books about Kefalonia and Saint Gerasimos.
