Located on Mount Atros, at an altitude of 760 metres above sea level, overlooking Poros, this is the oldest monastery in Kefalonia. The tower dating back to the middle ages is still preserved and the original Monastery was built in the Byzantine era around the 8th century. In former years the manly Monastery had many members but it's now down to only one monk.
The Monastery has had quite an eventful and colourful history, having been destroyed 17 times (often by earthquakes) but always being rebuilt by the monks themselves. The Monastery was attacked 3 times by Saracens during the middle ages with 127 monks losing their lives in its defence. The actual fortress built at the Monastery to withstand these constant attacks and protect the monks and valuables has been classed as the oldest standing building on Kefalonia - well worth a visit for those adventurous enough to go off the beaten track. The road leading up to the monastery is in poor condition.
The Monastery celebrates on 8th September (feast day of the Virgin's birth)
The Abbot's telephone number is 26740 72297
