In older times, Greek monks tried to build monasteries in places that were hidden or difficult to access in order to protect them from bandits, invaders, and conquerors.
On islands, monasteries faced increased threats from pirates, so they had to be well- fortified. The most well-protected of them all survived for centuries and is still standing proud in its remote fastness as a testament to Christian Orthodox faith and devotion.
Today, some of them are still operating and are also open to the faithful and visitors who want to admire the monumental stone buildings that stand stubbornly in place, housing generations of ascetic monks who have lived there.
Panagia Hozoviotissa, Amorgos
You will find the Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa on Amorgos clinging to a steep rock above the endless blue of Agia Anna Beach.
The Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa has been standing there, a bright white sentinel against the grey rock surrounding it, since the year 1088.
According to tradition, the miraculous icon of Panagia arrived by boat on the beach of Asia from Hozova in Palestine, sent by a pious woman who wanted to save the icon from the Iconoclasts.
https://greekreporter.com/2022/05/30/five-greek-island-monasteries-perched-on-rocks/
Commentaires