Kardamoutsa Monastery

Located near the village of Karydi and situated at an altitude of 540m, the male monastery of Timios Stavros (Holy Cross) in Kardamoutsa is surrounded by a dry, rocky landscape with numerous trees, particularly hollies. At the monastery’s entrance, you’ll find a massive oak tree with a local tradition stating that anyone who cuts a branch will lose their hand.

The Holy Cross temple is quite sizable and definitely worth exploring, as it represents a gem of Christian architecture. In the vicinity, you’ll see the remarkable yet ruined monastery complex, which was constructed like a fortress in several stages from the 15th to the 18th century. The monastery was active during the Venetian Era and is currently home to one monk. The main church is encircled by the remains of monk cells, old graves, tanks, warehouses, a dining room, stable, olive oil mill, creamery, and more.

On September 14, the monastery celebrates its annual feast, during which visitors can stay in the restored building that houses a guesthouse. In addition to these structures, the renovation of the monastery continues at a steady pace in other buildings.