Tinos Ursulines Monastery

Location: Loutra

The Monastery of Ursulines was founded in 1862 by Maria-Anna Livs, who joined the Ursuline nuns in 1853. The monastery was once a thriving and autonomous community, with private farms, vineyards, gardens, a bakery, a tailor, and a metal smith among others.

During its long history, the monastery was a highly important educational center. From 1862 onwards, it housed an all-girls school, teaching young women from all over the country. The Ursulines’ reputation as one of the best institutions for education quickly spread, with many wealthy families throughout Europe and the Middle East sending their daughters to study there. Throughout the years, the monastery also functioned as an orphanage, boardinghouse, French-speaking high school, university, and Greek school.

By the early 20th century, the Ursulines Monastery had 36 nuns and almost 300 students. However, the outbreak of the Second World War would leave the convent in shambles, with the number of nuns and students dwindling dramatically. Following the war, the monastery would serve as the local primary school of Loutra up until 1984. Carpet-making and weaving also continued until 1991, the year that the monastery was completely abandoned.

Today, the convent has been transformed into a fascinating folklore museum. Visitors can venture out to various parts of the buildings, including the dormitories, the teacher’s room, and the room of arts. There, they will be able to see old furniture, tools used for sewing, painting, and photography, books, sacred vessels and vestments, and a photo gallery. There is also a theatre where performances used to take place. During the summer months, themed exhibitions and cultural events are held on the premises of the monastery.