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The Monasteries of Mountain Palouki on Skopelos Island
🌄🕊️ Discover the Monasteries of Mountain Palouki on Skopelos Island 🕊️🌄
Welcome to the captivating island of Skopelos, where the spiritual allure of Mountain Palouki monasteries beckons those in search of inner peace and enlightenment. Nestled amidst the lush mountainscape, these sanctuaries hold within their walls centuries of history, devotion, and tranquility. Amidst the lush greenery, the remarkable monasteries, on Mountain Palouki, await your soul-searching journey.
🌿🌺As you ascend the winding paths of Mountain Palouki, a sense of anticipation fills the air. The journey itself becomes an experience, allowing you to disconnect from the bustling world and connect with nature’s rhythmic harmony.
🙏Spiritual Renewal🙏
Lighting a candle or saying a prayer in this sacred space can be a deeply meaningful experience.
🚶♂️ The journey to Mountain Palouki is an adventure in itself, as you hike through a pristine wilderness that seems untouched by time. The hike rewards you with captivating panoramas of Skopelos Island, making the ascent well worth the effort.
Location:
Mountain Palouki is a prominent peak located on the beautiful island of Skopelos in Greece. It is one of the highest points on the island and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Aegean Sea. Mountain Palouki is situated on the southeast side of Skopelos Island. It is opposite Skopelos Chora. Be careful because you can reach them only via dirt roads. But do not be afraid as access is not so difficult.
Height:
The exact height of Mountain Palouki is approximately 565 meters (1,854 feet) above sea level. This elevation grants visitors and hikers the opportunity to witness stunning vistas from its summit, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
Evangelistria Monastery
The Evangelismos Monastery graces the slopes of Palouki Mountain, offering a splendid vista of the surroundings. With its fortress-like appearance, it carries the echoes of a connection to pirate raids from a bygone era. Reaching this serene place is possible by car or even on foot, although the journey involves an uphill road. Situated approximately 4 kilometers away from Skopelos Chora, it operates as a nunnery.
Constructed in the year 1712, it was established on the ruins of the oldest Byzantine monastery, dating back to 1676, by Hatzis-Stefanis Daponte, who was the father of Kaisarios Daponte. Furthermore, it is affiliated with the Xiropotamos Monastery of Mount Athos.
Within the monastery’s courtyard, you will find a fountain named after Kaisarios Daponte, alongside some valuable silverware and relics.
Inside the monastery, a treasure trove of priceless Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons awaits. Notably, the iconostasis is adorned with genuine gold leaf, crafted by a workshop in Constantinople. The decoration primarily features depictions of plants, animals, and scenes from both the Old and New Testaments.
Of particular significance is the icon of Our Lady of the Annunciation, dating back to 1683.
Throughout its history, the monastery has maintained a close connection with the Daponte family, a bond that persists to this day, especially in terms of its establishment and heyday.
The driving force behind its restoration was Hatzis-Stefanis John, known as the “erudite,” who renovated the old monastery at his own expense, shaping it into its present form. The motivation for this renovation was a miraculous event: despite being handed over to the Aga by the locals, Hatzis-Stefanis did not lose his life.
Another version of the story recounts that two mysterious monks gave Stefanos Daponte a picture, with a promise to return for it. These enigmatic figures disappeared some time later, after which the Virgin Mary appeared to the prince, urging him to build a monastery in her honor.
Both Hatzis-Stefanis and his son Caesar later held the prestigious office of Consul of England.
Within the monastery’s walls, you can find a Patriarchal sigil from 1804, bearing two lead seals.
Celebration
The monastery’s celebration falls on March 25, marking a dual occasion for Greece and Orthodoxy—commemorating the liberation from Turkish rule and the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary.
Sotiros Monastery
Located on the stunning Skopelos Island, Iera Moni Sotiros, also known as the Monastery of the Transfiguration or the Holy Monastery of the Savior, holds a rich history and boasts captivating Byzantine architecture.
Iera Moni Sotiros dates back to the Byzantine era, with historical records indicating that its foundation can be traced to the 16th century. Over the centuries, it has endured through times of cultural change, invasions, and social upheavals, becoming an enduring symbol of faith and devotion on Skopelos Island. Iera Moni Sotiros showcases a distinctive example of Byzantine architectural style.
The architectural elements and decorative features offer insights into the craftsmanship of the time and the spiritual significance attributed to sacred spaces. The church of Iera Moni Sotiros is dedicated to the Savior (Sotiros), the Transfiguration of Christ. The monastery was a place of safety for those hiding from the pirates and from the Turks during the Turkish dominance.
Celebration
Iera Moni Sotiros celebrates the Transfiguration of Christ on the 6th of August. Traditionally the vines are blessed and the locals taste the first grapes of the season. They also share grapes with all the pilgrims and visitors.
Ioannis Prodromos Monastery
The Timios Prodromos Monastery in Skopelos has an intriguing history. Originally, it was a male monastery during ancient times. However, since 1920, it has been transformed into a women’s monastery.
This serene establishment is located just a short distance from the Agia Varvara Monastery on Palouki Mountain, which looms majestically behind Skopelos Town. Timios Prodromos Monastery is a place of tranquility where dedicated nuns oversee the church and the overall maintenance of the monastery, ensuring its well-being.
Visitors to this remarkable place can marvel at the church’s exquisite wooden and gold temple, adorned with intricate depictions of vines, animals, and birds. Moreover, those who venture to the Timios Prodromos Monastery on Skopelos Island can also feast their eyes upon murals dating back to the 14th century.
EXTRA HINT:
Buy forged incised ceramic plates from the Ceramics Laboratory of the Holy Monastery of Timios Prodromos in Skopelos.
Celebration
Ioannis Prodromos Monastery celebrates on the 24th of June.
Agia Varvara Monastery
Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Mountain Palouki, Agia Varvara Monastery offers a peaceful heaven. Agia Varvara is the oldest monastery of Skopelos. It was built in 1648 according to the basilica dome design. The temple of the church is gold-plated and adorned with decorative flowers and vine leaves.
One of the treasures of Agia Varvara Monastery is the panoramic view it offers. As you gaze out from its elevated position, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Skopelos Island’s coastline and the endless expanse of the Aegean Sea. It’s a picture-perfect spot for both photographers and soul-seekers alike.
Many claim that Agia Varvara Monastery was an observatory for pirates and other invaders of the island. Since its location has an amazing view of the Aegean Sea and the island of Alonissos.
Celebration
Agia Varvara Monastery celebrates on the 4th of December.
Agios Taxiarchis Monastery
Last but certainly not least, Agios Taxiarchis Monastery, nestled high on the slopes of Mount Palouki, beckons with its timeless aura of devotion. Founded in the 18th century, Agios Taxiarchis Monastery carries with it centuries of tradition and devotion. Its rustic stone walls, whitewashed chapels, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape create an atmosphere that transports you back in time.
The monastery’s name, “ Agios Taxiarchis,” translates to “Holy Archangels,” and it is dedicated to these celestial beings. The panoramic vistas of Skopelos Island below and the azure sea beyond create a captivating backdrop for prayer and contemplation. The chapel’s frescoes and the stunning views from the monastery are worth the journey.
Celebration
The Skopelos monastery Agios Taxiarchis celebrates on November 8. The fiesta though takes place some days later because the priests of the island that day are in other churches. Except for the mass, the celebration offers a traditional meal consisting of local goats and plenty of wine.
Before visiting the Monasteries be sure that you are properly dressed and you are aware of the time schedules and the rules.
Exploring the Monasteries of Mountain Palouki on Skopelos Island is not only a journey into history but also an opportunity to connect with the island’s deep spiritual roots. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking tranquility, these monasteries offer a unique and enriching experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left their hallowed grounds. So, when you find yourself on Skopelos Island, be sure to take a step back in time and immerse yourself in the serenity of these remarkable monastic retreats.
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