Discover the spiritual gem of Skyros
Built on the imposing cliff of Hora, below the Medieval Castle, the Monastery of Agios Georgios dominates as one of the most important religious and spiritual centres of Skyros. If you make the ascent, you will feel the tranquillity that permeates every stone of this sacred place. The unique view of the Aegean Sea from the courtyard is enchanting.
The Monastery was founded in the 10th century, under Emperor Nikephoros Fokas, who dedicated it to Saint George, the patron saint of Skyros, as a gesture of gratitude for his victory over the Saracens. Since then, it has been a beacon of faith and a reference point for Skyrians and visitors to the island. In the 15th century it was linked to the Monastery of Great Lavra on Mount Athos, gaining particular religious and economic significance. Over the centuries, it continued to contribute to the island, serving as a centre for education, shelter, and spiritual guidance.
The current monastery church, constructed at around AD 1600, stands out for its Byzantine architecture, elaborate wood-carved decoration, and traditional roof tiles. Inside, two rare Byzantine icons of Saint George are kept, works of great artistic value, along with important ecclesiastical relics and old manuscripts. The relics include the medal of Olympic champion Spyros Louis, which he dedicated to the Monastery as a sign of gratitude.
If you find yourself on Skyros on the day of the feast of St George, 23 April (or Easter Monday, when Easter is celebrated later in the year), you will witness the glory with which the island honours its patron saint. The festival starts from the Monastery and culminates with the litany procession of the icon to Hora, accompanied by psalms, Byzantine music, and many faithful dressed in traditional costumes. Bells will be heard ringing all over the island and courtyards will fill with food, wine, and dancing, in a celebration of faith and community that is inextricably linked to the history of the place.
The Monastery was founded in the 10th century, under Emperor Nikephoros Fokas, who dedicated it to Saint George, the patron saint of Skyros, as a gesture of gratitude for his victory over the Saracens. Since then, it has been a beacon of faith and a reference point for Skyrians and visitors to the island. In the 15th century it was linked to the Monastery of Great Lavra on Mount Athos, gaining particular religious and economic significance. Over the centuries, it continued to contribute to the island, serving as a centre for education, shelter, and spiritual guidance.
The current monastery church, constructed at around AD 1600, stands out for its Byzantine architecture, elaborate wood-carved decoration, and traditional roof tiles. Inside, two rare Byzantine icons of Saint George are kept, works of great artistic value, along with important ecclesiastical relics and old manuscripts. The relics include the medal of Olympic champion Spyros Louis, which he dedicated to the Monastery as a sign of gratitude.
If you find yourself on Skyros on the day of the feast of St George, 23 April (or Easter Monday, when Easter is celebrated later in the year), you will witness the glory with which the island honours its patron saint. The festival starts from the Monastery and culminates with the litany procession of the icon to Hora, accompanied by psalms, Byzantine music, and many faithful dressed in traditional costumes. Bells will be heard ringing all over the island and courtyards will fill with food, wine, and dancing, in a celebration of faith and community that is inextricably linked to the history of the place.
