Monasteries to Visit in Anafi, Greece

Written by Greek Boston in About Anafi, Greece, Greek Travel Guide Comments Off on Monasteries to Visit in Anafi, Greece

Anafi, Greece is not only charming and beautiful, it is rich in historical and religious treasures. The monasteries and churches of Anafi are worth exploring to get a sense of both along with some incredible views. Here are the monasteries you can visit when on the island of Anafi.

Monastery of Zoodohos Pigi

The Monastery of Zoodohos Pigi, also known as Kato Panagia, is the main monastery on the island of Anafi. The monastery is located over the narrow isthmus that separates the Kalamos peninsula from the main islands. The Monastery of Zoodohos Pigi was built on the foundations of the Temple of Apollo. In fact, some of the walls of the temple have been preserved and incorporated into the current monastery.

They cover a vast areas and are quite large. Be sure to admire the fluted columns of white marble. You will enter the monastery by way of an arched gateway of white marble that were built of stones from earlier times. Once inside the monastery, you will see wood-carved iconostasis from the 19th century. There is also an old icon of Panagia Kalamiotissa that can be viewed. Since Turkish rule, the Monastery of Zoodohos Pigi has functioned as a pilgrimage. The monastery is well-known both in Anafi and outside of the island.

Chapel of Panagia Sto Dokari

The Chapel of Panagia Sto Dokari is a whitewashed country church that is found on a path that leads to the archaeological site of Kastelli. The chapel is made from materials that came from a burial complex of the Roman period. When visiting this chapel, you will see the marble Roman sarcophagus with relief representations of Pegasus, Perseus, Medusa, Erotides, and Grypes.

Church of Agios Antonios

The Church of Agios Antonios is another charming country church. The church is found on the northeast coast of the island of Anafi as you go toward Amorgos and Astypalaia. The church dates to the late Middle Ages. The rooftop of the Church of Agios Antonios features two arches. Inside the church, in the north aisle, there are murals representing the Visitation, Ascension, and Nativity. These murals date back to the early part of the 14th century. The location of the church is impressive as it sits on the edge of cliffs overlooking the beautiful water.

Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa

The Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa, which is also known as Ano Panagia, is located on the hill of Kalamos Rock. This is considered the most important monument of Anafi, Greece. This single roomed, domed temple has unique architecture that is interesting to explore. The hike to get to the monastery can be difficult, but is well worth it once you arrive there. If you do decide to visit the Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa, it’s important to know you need to make arrangements beforehand.

Visit these monasteries and churches when on the island of Anafi, Greece. You will find that they are not only a great place for a retreat, but they are all beautiful and rich in history.

Categorized in: About Anafi, Greece, Greek Travel Guide

This post was written by Greek Boston