A masterpiece of light and faith in white
Perched at the summit of Mount Kalamos on Anafi, the Monastery of Ano Kalamiotissa stands at an altitude of 460m, offering breathtaking views. This monolith, connected to the island by a narrow strip of land, is the second largest in the eastern Mediterranean after Gibraltar.
The dazzling monastery, built upon the ruins of the ancient sanctuary of Apollo Anafeos or Aiglitis, connects ancient worship with Christian faith in an almost mystical way. Legend has it that the sanctuary was founded by Jason and the Argonauts to thank the god for saving them from a storm. Modern tradition holds that the icon of the Virgin Mary was found among reeds (kalamia), hence the name Kalamiotissa.
The small katholikon (monastery church) is a single-nave domed building that exudes deep island simplicity. The route to the monastery begins at Kato Monastiri, on the eastern side of the island, and continues uphill for approximately 60 minutes, offering staggering views of the Aegean Sea, Santorini, and Amorgos.
One of the most reverent and authentic panigyria (traditional festivals) in the Cyclades is held in early September every year in honour of the Virgin Mary. Residents ascend on foot, bringing food and musical instruments. The liturgy is followed by a celebration with violins, lutes, and songs that echo across the island's summit until late at night.
If you walk up early in the morning, you will see the sun rise from the sea, painting the white walls of the monastery in shades of pink and gold. Ensure you have water with you and are wearing suitable footwear, as the ascent is demanding – and absolutely unforgettable.
Alternatively, you can visit the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi at the base of the mountain, where the monks of Kalamiotissa used to reside.
The dazzling monastery, built upon the ruins of the ancient sanctuary of Apollo Anafeos or Aiglitis, connects ancient worship with Christian faith in an almost mystical way. Legend has it that the sanctuary was founded by Jason and the Argonauts to thank the god for saving them from a storm. Modern tradition holds that the icon of the Virgin Mary was found among reeds (kalamia), hence the name Kalamiotissa.
The small katholikon (monastery church) is a single-nave domed building that exudes deep island simplicity. The route to the monastery begins at Kato Monastiri, on the eastern side of the island, and continues uphill for approximately 60 minutes, offering staggering views of the Aegean Sea, Santorini, and Amorgos.
One of the most reverent and authentic panigyria (traditional festivals) in the Cyclades is held in early September every year in honour of the Virgin Mary. Residents ascend on foot, bringing food and musical instruments. The liturgy is followed by a celebration with violins, lutes, and songs that echo across the island's summit until late at night.
If you walk up early in the morning, you will see the sun rise from the sea, painting the white walls of the monastery in shades of pink and gold. Ensure you have water with you and are wearing suitable footwear, as the ascent is demanding – and absolutely unforgettable.
Alternatively, you can visit the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi at the base of the mountain, where the monks of Kalamiotissa used to reside.
