If there is anything that the Cyclades and generally in the Aegean sea have in abundance, this is definitely churches and monasteries so close to the sea. Small monasteries in caves, on rocks and on beaches. Each creates its own sacred atmosphere and calms you down as soon as you visit it one of the most impressive monasteries in the Cyclades there is in the Amorgos. The church of the Virgin Mary of Hozoviotissa.
The images are awe-inspiring. If you’re there on vacation, the experience will be unforgettable.
Amorgos and Panagia Hozoviotissa
The monastery of Panagia of Hozoviotissa is built on the wild mountain hills of Amorgos. It seems to hang literally next to the void, having a unique view of the endless blue of the Aegean Sea. The monastery was built in 1088 and renovated by the Emperor of Byzantium Alexios Komnenos.
The reason for the construction of the monastery was the finding of a picture of the Virgin Mary who arrived from Hozovo or Hozova, Palestine. It is said that due to the persecution of Christians in the 9th century, the picture was moved and miraculously reached Amorgos.
According to the legend has the location was chosen by the Virgin Mary herself. Although the monastery underwent several changes over the centuries, and especially during the Venetian era (1296-1537), its particular character was not altered. In fact, for 900 years it has been continuously inhabited, without interruption even during the Turkish occupation.
The length of the monastery is estimated at 40 meters, while its width is only 5 meters. The 300 impressive stone steps lead you from the road to the entrance. If you go to the monastery you will notice that there are narrow stone stairs through which you can reach all 8 floors of the monastery, as well as all its wings.
he monastery, in addition to the monks’ cells, has a bank, kitchens, ovens, warehouses, and other auxiliary spaces.
The monastery of the Cyclades today
In our days, the ovens and the kitchens don’t work. The bank opens for the believers on the 21st of November in the Assumption celebration. In 1977, the Monastery was renovated. Then the three small cells came together. So the visitors can wander through the relics of the Monastery and are given the opportunity to taste the well-established treat by the monks with citron and loukoumi (traditional greek desert).
Tip: If you are like hiking you can follow a special and relaxing trek through the old paths and the natural landscape of the island.
Photo Source: amorgos-island.gr
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The famous and impressive Chytra of Greece
Frequently Asked Questions
The Panagia Hozoviotissa monastery is located on the island of Amorgos in the Cyclades, Greece. It is built on wild mountain hills and appears to hang dramatically next to a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea.
The Panagia Hozoviotissa monastery was built in 1088 and was renovated by the Byzantine Emperor Alexios Komnenos. It has been continuously inhabited for over 900 years, even during the Turkish occupation.
The monastery houses an icon of the Virgin Mary that arrived from Hozovo in Palestine. According to legend, the icon was miraculously transported to Amorgos during the 9th century Christian persecution, and the location of the monastery was chosen by the Virgin Mary herself.
The Panagia Hozoviotissa monastery has 8 floors connected by narrow stone stairs. The monastery is approximately 40 meters long and only 5 meters wide, and visitors must climb 300 impressive stone steps from the road to reach the entrance.
Yes, visitors can explore the monastery and wander through its relics. The bank opens to believers on November 21st for the Assumption celebration. Visitors are offered traditional Greek treats made by monks, including citron and loukoumi. The island also offers hiking trails through the natural landscape and old paths.
