Monastery of Holy Archangels in Glossa

Close to the magnificent mountain village of Glossa, surrounded by a lush pine forest with a stunning view of the north side of the island, stands the Monastery of the Holy Archangels (Taxiarchon). It was built in 1672, and a considerable number of monks used to live there. During the Ottoman rule, the monastery was renovated andwas under the authority of the Monastery of Xeropotamos on Mount Athos.From the end of the 17th century to the late 19th century, the monastery played a dominant role in Glossa’s economic activity, although its vast real estatewas largely donated.

 

The impressive group of buildings in the monastery includes a pentagonal stone-built courtyard, two wings containing the cells of the monks, and a katholikon. Remains of the 672 AD early Christian temple can be found in the courtyard, while on the south side of the monastery, the faithful can visit a well-preserved ossuary and a stone-built fountain. The idyllic natural environment would bring a priceless sense of exultation and euphoria.