Monastery of Anafonitria - Zakynthos island
The Anafonitria Monastery is located in the northwestern part of the Greek island of Zakynthos and is an architecturally and historically very interesting monument. It dates back to the 15th century and is one of the oldest buildings still standing on the island. The monastery was dedicated to the Virgin Mary and its history is also linked to St. Dionysus, the patron saint of Zakynthos.
The Byzantine monastery of Anafonitria is located in the interior of the Greek island of Zakynthos, in a vast pine forest near the eponymous village of Anafonitria.The monastery was founded in the middle of the 15th century, during the Venetian occupation of the island, making it one of the oldest buildings of its kind on Zakynthos.
The Anafonitria Monastery was dedicated to the Virgin Mary and the legend of the discovery of the miraculous icon is also linked to it. The icon of the Virgin Mary with the baby Jesus was found in the nearby rocks after a merchant ship from Constantinople was wrecked off the coast of Zakynthos. At night, a shepherd saw a very strong light in the rock, and when he went there in the morning with other villagers to look, they found the icon of the Virgin Mary in a cave.
The Convent of Our Lady consists of several buildings and also a tower, which was originally built as a defensive tower and now serves as a bell tower. The main church is located in the centre of the monastery grounds and has the plan of a three-aisled basilica. The walls of the church are decorated with interesting, ancient frescoes and paintings and you can also admire the carved, gilded iconostasis.
According to local memoirs, Daniel Sigoúros, later known as Saint Dionysios, served as the prior here. It was here that he is said to have spent the last, important years of his life (16th century). As abbot, he also met the murderer of his brother, whom he was able to forgive. It is said that the monastery has miraculous powers thanks to the work of St. Dionysios, and whoever lights a candle in the monastery will have all his wishes come true.
Although no monks currently live in the monastery, it is looked after by the local priest and villagers. It is a beautiful, calming place with beautiful church buildings, gardens and tourist facilities in the form of a tavern and a small souvenir shop.
More touristic destinations of Zakynthos
Most favourite sights of Zakynthos:Â Monastery of Anafonitria, Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa, Church of Saint Dionysius, Church of Saint Nicholas (Zante), Skinari Windmill, Ruins of Bochali Castle
Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Zakynthos.
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