On the island of Andros, five monasteries can be explored, including the Aegean Sea’s oldest monastery: the Holy Monastery of Panachrantos and Saint Panteleimon.
Perched at 600 meters on Mount Gerakones’ northern slopes, this fortress-like monastery has stood since 961 AD, founded by Nikephoros Phokas after his Byzantine campaign against Arab forces in Crete.
In recent years, this historic site has evolved into a sanctuary for contemporary Greek art. Its restored tower now houses “The Art Treasury – A Gallery Dedicated to Spirituality and Contemporary Creation,” featuring roughly 60 works by modern Greek artists including Eos Angeli, Yannis Moralis, Christos Bokoros, and Alekos Fassianos.
The monastery preserves sacred relics, including an icon of the Virgin Mary traditionally attributed to Saint Luke the Evangelist and the skull of Saint Panteleimon. Abbot Evdokimos, 93 and residing there for seven decades, recalled its dilapidated state upon his arrival: “There were no rooms, no dining hall, no kitchen.” Through community support and a shipowner’s generosity, restoration transformed it into a spiritual destination for thousands.
“In the past, the monastery functioned like a hospital,” shared Father Philaretos. “People valued it as an institution serving the community’s physical and spiritual needs, coming to receive Saint Panteleimon’s grace and find peace during hardship.”
Father Philaretos emphasizes the monastery’s mission: “Our goal is to foster a dialogue between the Church, spirituality, and contemporary creators,” he explained. “Art and religion have always been closely connected. Throughout history, faith traditions have used the artistic expressions of their time.”
This initiative encourages meaningful engagement between visitors and monks, offering both artistic appreciation and spiritual discourse. The collection’s curation, selection, and conceptual direction are handled by painter Christos Kehayioglou, creating a unique bridge between ancient tradition and modern artistic expression.
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