|
 Towering
above the village of Hora, and is visible from every part
of the Island, as if a great eye watching over the whole
place is the monastery of Saint John the Divine (Agios
Ioannis Theologos). Erected in 1088 by St. Christodoulos,
the Monastery of St. John has been the pinnacle of religious
and cultural heritage in the Island.
The Monastery was not built as a house of prayer alone, it was also built as a fortress – to safeguard Christianity and its believers from the clutches of death and war. The monastery is enclosed by tall, thick walls over 15 metres high, with a length of 53 metres from North to South and 70 metres from East to West. The monastery has been built like a fortress – the gates having small openings called “the killer” from which burning hot oil, water, and even lead will be poured over to attacking pirates and invaders who try to break the walls.
The monastery follows Byzantine architecture as it is styled with rectangular stone stairs that leads to the big gate of the monastery. The yard is stonewashed with pebbles and has been decorated beautifully with flowers and lawn. The middle of the monastery houses a water tank and a well of holy water.
The miracles performed by Saint John the Divine can be seen on the eastern part of the monastery, with an arch with four curves and frescoes. The monastery is home to ten sacred chapels, and the Holy Chamber where monastery monks hold their meetings with the groups or cells of the monks.
The church inside the monastery is considered by many pilgrims as one astounding piece of art and history. Inside, one can admire the intelligent mix of marvellously crafted wood-carved icons, the age old marble floors, and the grandiose and rich Christian decorations.
Another place in the monastery which is of utmost interest to many is the Library, which includes in its catalogue a total of 2,000 volumes, 13,000 historic documents and archives, and 900 manuscripts. Aside from these, in the treasury of the monastery, the monks throughout time have kept invaluable objects, remarkable religious and historical icons, utensils and garments.
To reach the monastery, just simply follow the steep uphill road which is near the bus station. Bus services run regularly from Hora, Grikos, Skala and Kambos.
Opening Hours
May-Aug : Sun. : 8.00 am-1.00 pm and 2.00 pm-6.00pm
Mon. : 8.00 am-1:30 pm
Tue-Wed : 8.00 am-1:30 pm and 2.00-6.00pm
Thur-Sat : 8.00 am-1:30 pm
Admission Fees: Free to monastery
|
