Alonissos Monastery of Kyra Panagia

Location: Pelagonisi

The Monastery of Kyra Panagia on Alonissos: Kyra Panagia or Pelagonisi is the largest islet of North Sporades. It is located northeast of Alonnisos island and it was named after the monastery of Kyra Panagia. The island has a few inhabitants and is part of the natural park of Alonnisos.

Kyra Panagia is a 16th-century post- Byzantine monastery that lies on top of a hill overlooking the sea on the eastern side of the islet. Within the walls of the monstery is a picturesque church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The church is white-washed with red-painted borders and a nice belfry. There is also a lovely courtyard where early Christian remains are found from the 6th and 7th century A.D.

The monastery of Kyra Panagia has become very popular with tourists and it is fascinating to see the still-existing remains of the old olive oil press and flour mill. The monastery organizes a religious festival to celebrate the Dormition of Virgin Mary on August 15th.