Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa
Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa
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- Wanderer4195596816128 contributionsCollect impressionsNo public transport in early April, so a perfect opportunity for a hike. I hiked from Katapola to Chora (avoid the main road, unless you intend to hitchhike) enjoying the beauty of the valley, the labyrinth streets of Chora, and the views over the coast and the mesmerising blue waters. In summer the monastery can see as many as up to 1000 visitors a day, or so i was told. But early and late in season you may be one of a few pelgrims, which enhances the experience The story of the monastery is as amazing as the views. As are the stories of all the art works and the inhabitants. Collect stories, I encourage youVisited April 2024Traveled soloWritten April 17, 2024
- homenaje17San Fernando, Spain2,004 contributionsAwesomeIt's impressive to see it clinging to the cliff. It seems like a miracle that it hasn't fallen into the sea. The monks give you a warm welcome. The heat brings it up and you have to find a time when it's open and there isn't a crowd of people. , something a little complicated.Visited September 2023Traveled with friendsWritten May 4, 2024
- Lavaud A5 contributionsBreathtaking and unforgettableA breathtaking place to see. We recommend leaving the Chora school parking lot on foot, going down to the entrance to the monastery for around 45 minutes. The descent is steep but there is a magnificent view of the sea. You then go uphill for around 20 minutes to reach the monastery. The entrance is through a tiny door and even if the visit only allows you to discover a small chapel, the visit ends with a free raki and Turkish delight!Visited May 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten May 13, 2024
- Jean-Emmanuel RLa Louviere, Belgium1,024 contributionsTo be done absolutely after 20 to 30 minutes of physical exertion!The most famous and unmissable site on the island of Amorgos. It is accessible by car but also by bus from the main villages of the island. The bravest will walk from the village of Chora (30 min). If you come by car, the best is to come to the opening (8:30) so as to park more easily but also to better enjoy the site. The climb from the car park takes 20 to 30 min with the possibility to catch your breath halfway (a shelter with benches is available). The interior of the monastery is free and can be visited fairly quickly. There is also a museum containing gospel extracts and various accessories (3€ entry).Visited August 2024Traveled soloWritten August 4, 2024
- eemix14 contributionsNecessary... pineza on your schedule in AmorgosEven if you're not religious, it's an amazing experience. I visited her when I was 20, 30 years later I would not miss the climbing of the stairs. You are craving but once you get up there, beyond the hospitality and courtesy of the clergy and their assistants, and beyond the classic racomel, lupumi and water, you have the opportunity for incredible pictures of the view with the truly vast blue. Photos are not allowed inside of course to know this. The descent needs attention as the stairs slip. I do not know at what age I will return to Amorgos but it will always be on the agenda to visit the monastery.Visited July 2024Traveled with familyWritten August 5, 2024
- Régis1972Lancy, Switzerland19,915 contributionsMust see in AmorgosThis monastery (Monastery of the Panagia Chozoviotissa) is inlaid in a cliff, 300m above sea level and was built 1000 years ago to house a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary. It was renovated in 1088 by the Byzantine Emperor Alexander Comnenos. this place is stunning and incredible. It was built in the rock right on the cliff in a place that is quite long access on foot (count a good 15 minutes walk uphill!) . Arriving at the top, the view is breathtaking, the building is imposing and inside we will be offered a glass of water, a glass of raki and also loukoums. Arms and legs must be covered but there are clothes at the entrance that can be borrowed for the visit. It is definitely worth going all the way up even if the path is complicated. Entrance is free and you can park along the small access road which is steep.Visited August 2024Traveled with familyWritten August 21, 2024
- edwinkaLa-Baule-Escoublac, France116 contributionsBeautifulIt is a steep stone staircase winding down the cliffside with an immaculately white cave construction in sight. You have to go in the middle of the furnace, when there is no cloud, no wind and the sun hits, heats dry the pebbles, the rocks. The contrast with the blue gradient of a sea of oil and a sky of azure, which seems to delimit the silhouette of a few islands on the horizon, is striking. It's breathtakingly beautiful.Visited August 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten August 23, 2024
- Traveler66 contributionsBurial of OrthodoxyWonderful colors and religious nostalgia. It also takes good physical condition to climb the 300 steps until you reach the entrance! Be careful about dressing up, but enter the monastery. He has strict rules.Visited September 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten September 13, 2024
- 630danilodProvince of Ascoli Piceno, Italy164 contributionsWhen faith drove human beings to create wonderful works.There are almost 270 steps to go to reach the Monastery, which is why it is recommended in the summer months to try the feat early in the morning, when the heat is less suffocating, equipped with suitable shoes, long pants for men and skirts below the knee for women and driven more by religious spirit than tourism. The Monastery represents a wonderful architectural and engineering work inserted in a unique natural context. I will stop there, anything I can say has already been said and it is irrelevant to how much you will feel if you happen to go there.Visited September 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten September 18, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Ester P
Milan, Italy10 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
A visit to the monastery is unmissable, despite the 387 steps to climb to get there. We went in the late afternoon, at the beginning of August, when the heat is less suffocating and that part of the island is in the shade. In the photo, the white of the monastery reflects the color of the sky and turns out to be blue, a somewhat magical effect. You can only enter if you have your shoulders and legs covered. If you don't have appropriate clothing you will be given long trousers and skirts at the entrance (I recommend bringing a sarong!).

Written August 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Coccodrillo1710
Catania, Italy583 contributions
Aug 2023 • Friends
The monastery rises like a plant stone set in the rock. It can be reached by car to the beginning of the suggestive staircase that slowly leads to the entrance of the monastery. The wood and stone interior preserves relics of the Orthodox rite and a suggestive portrait of the virgin. Upon arrival, you cover yourself according to the rules and can visit the interior, where the monks willingly exchange a few words and offer the pilgrims some water and rakomelo. It goes without saying that the entire route has breathtaking views.

Written August 25, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
yiannava
Nicosia, Cyprus93 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
Simply astounding! Breathtaking ! It is a difficult climb to the top but it is worth your breath. It is beyond my comprehension how they even managed to build this structure in 821A.D.! Inside the Monastery is a tiny church where the icon of Panagia is placed. At the monastery the 2 monks left, offer raki and sweet. The 300 step climb to the monastery is not for the physically impaired or people with health issues. However, the breathtaking view can be enjoyed from the parking lot. The monastery is open 8 to 1 and 5 to 8.
Written September 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MONIQUE C
Mont-de-Marsan, France57 contributions
Sep 2023 • Friends
Superb location but the view is already exceptional... from the parking lot!
The climb of 300 steps is certainly doable but its arduousness prevents you from enjoying the landscape. Arrived at the top, it's not over!!!! winding, narrow stairs, very low ceilings... somewhat acrobatic climbing and there it would be better to be in sportswear than in a skirt!!! young gentlemen keep watch to prevent falls... but they are not priests whom we have not seen. The accessible chapel is very dark (too bad, photos are prohibited) and you can barely see the icons. Certainly we are offered a little raki (very diluted not compromising the descent) In short, not worth the detour, except for sports enthusiasts. By the way, on the descent, the stones are often slippery, even in dry weather, and you still have to tense up to avoid a fall... For me, a "limited" visit that I do not recommend to everyone. (except very strong faith).
The climb of 300 steps is certainly doable but its arduousness prevents you from enjoying the landscape. Arrived at the top, it's not over!!!! winding, narrow stairs, very low ceilings... somewhat acrobatic climbing and there it would be better to be in sportswear than in a skirt!!! young gentlemen keep watch to prevent falls... but they are not priests whom we have not seen. The accessible chapel is very dark (too bad, photos are prohibited) and you can barely see the icons. Certainly we are offered a little raki (very diluted not compromising the descent) In short, not worth the detour, except for sports enthusiasts. By the way, on the descent, the stones are often slippery, even in dry weather, and you still have to tense up to avoid a fall... For me, a "limited" visit that I do not recommend to everyone. (except very strong faith).

Written October 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paolo P
Rome, Italy107 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
A jewel not to be missed. The heat was notable and the climb was just right; the fact of having to cover oneself with clothing available at the entrance to the church was a sacrifice that was willingly and inevitably made in order to proceed with the visit. The monks were very kind and welcoming and quenched everyone's thirst with fresh water and raki. Too bad we couldn't take photos inside. It is advisable to bring some clothing with you to cover yourself if you don't want to use the (sweaty) ones available

Written September 13, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FernandoNevesAlmeida
Lisbon, Portugal390 contributions
Sep 2020 • Friends
The St George's Monastery is placed in a wonderful location near the green waters of the Mediterranean not far from the chora. It was build in bizantin times and has some precious old icons at the small interior of the church. So climb the three hundred steps to visit it.
Written November 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GaryandLesleyTravel
Auckland Central, New Zealand7,814 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Catching the the bus up from Katapola we were dropped just short of and below the monastery from where you walk the last couple of hundred metres to the start of the 350 steps. The Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary Chozoviotissa (Abbey of Hozoviotissa) built in 1017, renovated in 1088 literally hangs off the cliff face approximately 260M above the sea. From here it’s a beautiful view point, the Aegean Sea looks amazing, the cliffs are spectacular, the 1006 year old monastery (2nd oldest in Greece) interesting, 8 stories high no more than 5 metres deep at any point and adorned with 16 & 17th century icons / ornaments / paintings. From the bus stop head back up along the road towards Chora and you will come across the cut stairs that take you up the hill to the the township.
Written October 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jean M
19 contributions
Sep 2020
The Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa sits on the side of a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea, with breathtaking views to the east. The steps to the Monastery number over 300, most with incline and ruff stones. Not an easy climb, but certainly well worth it. Once you reach the Monastery, there are still more steps, as it is build with 5+ stories, and only 5 meters wide. But you will be greeted with water and the local raki drink from the aides of the Monks. There is also one of the oldest Icons in Greece in the church within the Monastery. So incredibly beautiful, and a must see on the island of Amorgos.
Written September 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Corinne L
Vermelles, France5 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
I give my opinion after a visit made 2 months ago. It’s a fantastic, peaceful, serene place. I still think about it very often. There are places that give you excess emotion and people you meet during your travels. I can tell you that the 300 steps are worth it. I was overwhelmed with emotions and even more so with the French guide Constantin who told my husband and me about his life path and his coming to the monastery. Thank you for helping us, travelers, leave with memories for life.

Written November 25, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
susi s
Sydney, Australia145 contributions
May 2022
A must see experience! Yes there are 300 steps but just take your time. It is worth it. Note that the monastery closes from 1 pm to 5pm for prayers. Coming at 9 am or a bit later avoids getting there and squeezing into quite a small public space.
Written May 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bonjour, je suis une étudiante francaise qui voyage dans les cyclades avec un projet portant sur les communautés, j'aimerai savoir si il est possible de faire du woofing pour le monastère. ( il a des monastères dans les cyclades qui le permettent c'est pour cela que je me questionne sur les possibilités du lieu). merci.
Written August 30, 2018
amoviaggiare
Roccaforzata, Italy
Quanto dista da Atene? Che località dovrei impostare sul navigatore?
Written February 17, 2018
PaoloRiccardoCarrara
Rome, Italy
Stiamo parlando dell'isola di Amorgos nelle Cicladi. Si arriva solo via mare gtp.gr per tutte le informazioni sugli orari delle navi.
Ciao!
Written February 17, 2018
johiker
San Rafael, California
What is the best way to get there for a day trip from Santorini? It looks like Seajets ferries will arrive at 1:45pm and depart at 6:40pm but does that leave enough time to visit between 5:00pm and 7:00pm? Are there other options?
Written January 29, 2018
Savvas Tzevelekis
Thessaloniki, Greece
Hi there. Unfortunately the island is not well connected with boats.
Same time it is not very easy and quick to drive around the island.
So i would suggest you to have more time in the island and make sure you have options for your transportation in case one is cancelled for any reason.
Written February 12, 2018
Bichoes
Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Hi, is The Monastery open on 14-15 of august (Panagia ) St. Mary day, are there some religious events, and is this period good for visiting the place ???
Written September 10, 2017
ElenaDrs
Bristol, United Kingdom
There are plenty of religious events going on around that period.The most popular are on 6th of Aug and on the 15th. On the 6th is the celebration of Jesus and that takes place in Hora. People gather in the central square called "Loza" and enjoy free food, drinks and live music. The second event takes place in Lagada, celebrating St. Mary where again visitors you enjoy free traditional food and drinks as well as live music. I would suggest you visit the island between the 6th and 16 of Aug, so you can enjoy both big events. I have two friends that can offer accommodation either apartment via airbnb or hotel with swimming pool. Both located in Aegiali (10 min from Lagada and 20 from Hora). The name of the apartment is "Krikelos House" (airbnb) and the name of the hotel "Seahouse". Check them out online if you like. Both have 5 star reviews. :)
Written September 12, 2017
PIEGALL
Palermo, Italy
È possibile visitare il monastero la domenica ?
E assistere alla messa?
Written August 27, 2017
PaoloRiccardoCarrara
Rome, Italy
E' aperto tutti i giorni, è anche possibile assistere alle funzioni che credo siano solo la mattina molto presto.
Written August 27, 2017
Μαριος Π
Santorini, Greece
δε θελω να ρωτησω τιποτα , απλα ανατριχιασα απο την περιγραφη !!! ευχαριστω πολυ !!!
Written July 20, 2017
jacasselin
Quebec City, Canada
Bonjour, si notre hôtel est à Chora,le village principal, combien faut-il de temps pour se rendre à pied au monastère?
Written October 9, 2016
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