6 Amazing Monasteries To Visit In Corfu, Greece

1. Monastery of Kassopitras

The Monastery of Kassopitras was built back in the early 18th century, in the city of Kanoni. It had gone through a thorough renovation after being bought by the monk Gennadios. This monastery is also known as one of the most beautiful monasteries as it has lush vegetation surrounding it. This holy place boasts a strong post-Byzantine design. It was built to honour the Mother of God Kassopitras, who is known for restoring the vision of a man named Stefan, who was blinded by an unjust decision taken by the local court.

Monastery of Kassopitras

Address: 108 Φιγαρετο, Kerkira, Corfu

2. Monastery of Paleokastritsa

Monastery of Paleokastritsa is known for its serene atmosphere and magnificent view of the sunset surrounded by the sea. Located at the top of the hill in Paleokastritsa, the monastery was first built in the 13th century, and it was intended to worship the Virgin Mary. Here, you can see how the monks are working to create olive and kumquat products. Make sure you throw a coin into the well that is located in the yard as according to the local legends, throwing coins into the well will make you return to the island one day.

Monastery of Paleokastritsa

Address: Paleokastritsa, Corfu, Ionian Islands

Website: Monastery of Paleokastritsa

3. Vlacherna Monastery

Located on an islet, in the bay near the south of Kanoni, Vlacherna Monastery dated back to the 17th century, and it functioned as the place to worship until 1980s. Today, there’s only one small church that is open for tourists and guests can even have a celebration there. Another area that is open for visitors is the souvenir shops located nearby. Since it is the only building on the islet, when you visit the monastery, make sure to take a boat ride to its neighboring island, Mouse Island.

Vlacherna Monastery

Address: Paleopolis 163, Kerkira, Corfu, Ionian Islands

Website: Vlacherna Monastery

4. Monastery Of Pantokrator

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Founded by Alexios the Stratopedarch and John the Primikerios in 1363, Monastery of Pantokrator is dedicated to the Transfiguration of Our Lord. Although it had witnessed the decline of the Byzantine empire and had gone through destructive fires in 1773 and 1948, the monastery has shown that it can return stronger than before. With its location on the top of Mount Athos, visitors to this place will also be treated to fabulous views surrounding it. There’s a restaurant next door where you can enjoy a delicious meal coupled with stunning views of the area and the monastery.

Monastery Of Pantokrator

Address: Ekklisia Pantokrator, Kapodistriou 124, Kassiopi, Corfu

5. Monastery of Saint Paraskevi

The uniqueness of the Monastery of Saint Paraskevi probably is how it was built. The monastery is located on the edge of Vikos Gorge, in Zagori. It was funded by a local lord, the military commander Michael Therianos. He assigned the locals of the Vitsa village to build this monastery, as a thankful gesture for someone who has helped his daughter. Although the monastery is currently abandoned, it is still open for public who want to visit this unique place. Inside the small basilica, there’s a portrait of Lord Michael Therianow and his daughter.

Monastery of Saint Paraskevi

Address: Vikos Gorge, Zakori, Corfu

6. Monastery of Myrtiotissas

According to local legends, the Monastery of Myrtiotissas was built inside a cave near Pelekas and Vatos villages. It was where an angel told Father Daniel, in his dream, that inside the cave, he will see a stone with the icon of the Virgin Mary, a dove and a cross. The monastery is famous for its Theotokos Myrtidiotissa, an image that was made with great technique and artistry.

Monastery of Mirtiotissas

Address: Monastery of Mirtiotissa, Vatos Myrtiotissas, Corfu

Website: Monastery of Mirtiotissas

Visit the unique and beautiful monasteries

Greece is well known as a country that is strong in its Christianity tradition. Here, you’ll find many gorgeous monasteries along with the historical, cultural and religious buildings, thus making the country even more beautiful.