Kea Panagia Kastriani Monastery

Location: Otzias

The Monastery of Panagia Kastriani in Kea, Greece: The Monastery of Panagia Kastriani is located on the northern side of the island, 12 km from Ioulida, the capital of Kea. It lies in the region of Kastri, which is why the monastery was named Kastriani. According to the local tradition, at around 1700 AD, a few shepherds saw a light on top of Kastri hill. When they climbed up, they dug and found an icon of the Virgin Mary. On that spot, they built a small church that still exists today. In 1912, a larger church was also constructed and comprises the katholikon of the monastery until nowadays.

On its premises, there is also a two-story building with guest houses, cells, and auxiliary rooms. At the entrance of the monastery, which is colored blue and white, stands a tall bell tower. The Monastery of Kastriani celebrates August 15th and a large panigiri takes place. Its location offers a breathtaking view of the Aegean Sea and the island of Andros.