Monastery of Panagia of Vlachernas: Celebrating the Nativity of the Virgin Mary

On September 8th, the Eastern Orthodox Christian Church observes the Nativity of the Theotokos, honoring the Ever-Virgin Mary. Situated in the village of Kato Panagia, near Kyllini in Ilia, Peloponnese, you'll find the historical Monastery of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, also known as the Monastery of Panagia of Vlachernas. This name pays homage to the renowned monastery in Constantinople.

The monastery's origins date back to the late 12th or early 13th century, with its construction likely completed under the Frankish rule following their conquest of the region in 1205. Initially under Latin monastic control by the Franciscan Order during the 15th and 16th centuries, the monastery was returned to Orthodox governance in the 17th century, becoming a stauropegic institution.

Throughout the Turkish occupation and during the Revolution of 1821, the monastery faced numerous destructions, the most devastating being its burning by Ibrahim Pasha’s forces in 1826, leading to a temporary abandonment. It later reopened as a women's monastery and, since 1978, has served as a women’s nursing home.

At the heart of the monastery complex stands the catholicon, a striking example of the fusion between Eastern and Western ecclesiastical art. This three-aisled, wooden-roofed basilica features a narthex and exonarthex and is constructed from red limestone in the cloisonné masonry style, with double bricks framing each stone. Incorporated into its walls are stones and reliefs from an earlier Christian structure found in the area.

The eastern section of the church is believed to date to the late 12th or early 13th century, while the western section, including the narthex and exonarthex, was modified by the Frankish conquerors to align with Western architectural standards. Notably, a distinctive solar clock made from white marble can be found at the exonarthex, a testament to Frankish influence. Inside, the church is adorned with exquisite icons from the mid-18th century.

The monastery also boasts a significant library containing relics of saints and the tombs of Frankish lords. It holds its annual celebration on September 8th.

For more information, you can contact the monastery at 2623092205. It falls under the Holy Metropolis of Elis and Oleni and is located at Kato Panagia, Kyllini, Ilia, Peloponnese.

For further details, visit: Website