Founded in 1578 by bishop Evripos Timotheos, a local saint of Attica, the all-male Penteli Monastery was built amid the lush greenery at the foot of Mount Penteli.
Devoted to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, the monastery was constructed with financial support from the Degleris family. The number of monks residing at the monastery rose to more than 100 after many who previously lived solitary lives in nearby caves relocated here.
Under Ottoman occupation, the monastery owned large tracts of land in the Penteli area and throughout Attica. Due to its longstanding relationship with the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, the monastery was granted many privileges by the Ottomans.
With high walls and heavy wooden gates, the monastery’s exterior resembles a castle, while the interior buildings incorporate architectural elements from ancient churches.
More Churches & Monasteries
Penteli Monastery
North Suburbs, PenteliFounded in 1578 by bishop Evripos Timotheos, a local saint of Attica, the all-male Penteli Monastery was built amid the lush greenery at the foot of Mount Penteli....
St. Nikolas the Sailor
AeginaFittingly, visitors catch their first glimpse of this beautiful white church dedicated to Saint Nicholas the Sailor while approaching the port of Aegina by boat....
Church of Saints Constantine and Eleni
Glyfada, South SuburbsDedicated to Saints Constantine and Helen, the Cathedral of Glyfada is located near the old City Hall....
Agios Ioannis Kynigos Monastery
Agia Paraskevi, North SuburbsThe Agios Ioannis Kynigos (St. John the Hunter) Monastery is located on the northern side of Mount Hymettus, above the suburb of Agia Paraskevi....
Panagitsa Church
AeginaVisible from the coast of Aegina, the magnificent church of Panagitsa is located just outside Aegina’s marina....
Kaisariani Monastery
AthensOverlooking the Kaisariani district from a hill a short distance from Hymettus, the Kaisariani Monastery stands some 350 metres high....