Churches and Monasteries to visit in Sporades Islands
Religion has always been an essential factor in Greek culture. So, if you are visiting the Sporades Islands, find out here the top churches you should visit.
The Sporades islands in Greece are located between the mainland and the islands of North-Eastern Aegean. They are almost in the center of the Aegean Sea.
They are four small islands with a unique character and incredible nature. Skiathos is mostly popular among the youth due to its cosmopolitan nightlife. On the other hand, Skopelos and Alonissos are more family-oriented because of their gorgeous beach resorts.
The least known but equally beautiful island is Skyros, with a picturesque capital town, secluded beaches, and marvelous sightseeing.
Like any other part of Greece, Sporades Islands have beautiful monasteries, cathedrals, and churches. After all, everyone knows how important religion is to the Greek people.
Keep reading to find the most beautiful and essential churches you should visit in the Sporades Islands.
Monastery of Kyra Panagia, Pelagonisi
Pelagonisi is located northeast of Alonnisos island and is named after the monastery of Kyra Panagia. The island has a few inhabitants and is part of the natural park of Alonnisos. The 16th-century monastery features a picturesque church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. There is also a lovely courtyard where early Christian remains are found from the 6th and 7th century A.D.
Church of Agios Ioannis Kastri, Skopelos
This little church is where the Mamma Mia movie was filmed. Agios Ioannis is perched on top of a rock, providing an extraordinary view of the coasts of Skopelos and Alonissos. The impressive rock is linked to the rest of the island through a narrow path with 110 steps carved into the stone. A small beach with pristine blue waters is formed right beneath the rock. Furthermore, the church’s interior has beautiful icons and old ecclesiastical items.
The Monastery of Evangelistria, Skopelos
Located at a distance of 3,5 km east of Skopelos Town, the Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria is among the most important post-Byzantine monuments in Skopelos island. The monastery was originally constructed in 1712 and in the middle of the 18th century, it was renovated by the local noble family of Daponte.
The Monastery of Evangelistria, on the slopes of Mount Palouki, distinguishes for its architecture that looks like a fortress and for its 18th century wooden-carved iconostasis that was constructed in a workshop in Constantinople. The monastery hosts valuable Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons. Located on the slopes of a hill, the monastery offers an amazing view to Skopelos Town and the Aegean Sea.
Monastery of Evangelistria, Skiathos
The Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria is located about 5 km north of Skiathos Town. Reachable by car or on foot from the capital, this historic monastery is built on the slopes of a mountainside and is surrounded by lush greenery, mostly pine forests and fur trees. The Monastery of Evangelistria is among the most important religious center in the Sporades since it played an essential role during the Greek revolution in the 1820s.