Monasteries to Visit in Symi, Greece
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The Greek island of Symi is like something out of a fairy tale. The colorful houses, the mountains, and the mythical tradition of the island all add to its charm and ambiance. Symi, Greece is also rich in history just waiting to be discovered. Here are some monasteries you should visit when in Symi.
Monastery of Archangel Michael Roukouniotis
The Monastery of Archangel Michael Roukouniotis was constructed by the Knights of Saint John during the 15th century.Tradition says this is the oldest monastery on the island. The monastery was built on the ruins of what may have been a pagan temple. By the 17th century, the Monastery of Archangel Michael Roukouniotis was a large monastic community. It had a large amount of land as well as a rich library. The monastery led the spiritual life on the island of Symi.
This place got its name from region where it is located in Roukouna on the western side of the island. The original church is thought to have been dedicated to the Holy Trinity, which may explain why Archangel Michael was revered there early on. The monastery consists of two temples. Inside the courtyard, you will find amazing murals. The courtyard itself is shaded and protected by an umbrella-shaped cypress tree.
Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis
Constructed in 1783, the Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis is one of the most important pilgrimage centers not just on the island of Symi, but in the entire Dodecanese. The monastery is located on the southwestern side of the island. Anastasis Karnavis was the architect who designed the Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis.
It was decorated by local iconographers including Monk Neofytos and Kyriakos Karakostis. During the 20th century, the bell tower of the monastery was built. It strongly resembles the bell tower of the Monastery of Zagorsk in Moscow. Inside the monastery, you can explore the ecclesiastical and folklore collections.
Chapel of Virgin Mary of the Castle
The Chapel of Virgin Mary of the Castle in Symi, Greece is located at the highest point of the Castle of the Knights. The chapel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding areas, especially of Horio Town and Yialos Town. As with all the chapels in the castle area, the Chapel of Virgin Mary has a yard decorated with black and white pebbles. The castle was built by the Knights of Saint John during the 14th century. The Knights Castle was built on the ruins of a Byzantine Castle. The castle still share a wall, parts of which are still visible.
Cathedral of Timios Prodromos
The Cathedral of Timios Prodromos was constructed in 1830 and renovated in 1869. The cathedral features a charming pebbled yard that you will find very welcoming and a beautiful bell tower. The Cathedral sits near the waterfront of Gialos providing a wonderful ambiance. The temple is connected to the resistance against conquerors and is an important monument on Symi.
Visit these monasteries and churches in Symi, Greece during your visit. Even if you see only one of them, it could be enough to give you a nice overview.
Categorized in: About Symi, Greece, Greek Travel Guide
This post was written by Greek Boston
