Skopelos Monastery of Agia Varvara

Location: Town

The stone-built Monastery of Agia Varvara is located about 6 kilometers east of Skopelos Town, close to the Monastery of Timios Prodromos. Constructed in 1648, it is the oldest monastery on the island and is surrounded by strong walls that give it a fortress-like aspect. Its fabulous location offers amazing sea views as far as the neighboring Alonissos, which is why it is often assumed that it might have been used as a lookout post for enemies.

The church of Agia Varvara is a one-aisled domed basilica and features a gilded altarpiece adorned with ornately carved floral and vine motifs, as well as with double-headed eagles and depictions of the twelve apostles. Today, the monastery is no longer in operation, but it is well worth a visit for its rare Byzantine icons, which date from the 17th century.

To get there, you need to take the road that crosses Mount Palouki in the direction of the Monastery of Timios Prodromos. Towards the end, you must follow a dirt path that can be somewhat demanding for vehicles.