Nothing quite prepares you for the sight of this iconic 11th-century monastery, a dazzling white structure seemingly embedded into the cliff-face high above the sea. This is Greek island scenery at its most dramatic. You’ll even forgive the hundreds of stairs you need to climb to reach it.
Built on Amorgos’ precipitous east coast below Hora, the monastery contains a miraculous icon that was found in the sea below the cliff. Enter through a green, Hobbit-sized door to discover the secrets of the monastery. With any luck, a custodian will be there to explain the significance of the monastery and its icons.
The dress code is modest and strict. No shorts, no mini-skirts, no bare shoulders and no women in trousers. No exceptions (and there’s no clothing available to borrow).
From about mid-May to October there’s a bus service to the monastery from Katapola, Hora and Aegiali. A zigzagging walking path also reaches it from the eastern car park of Hora.
While you’re in this neck of the woods, head just a kilometre or so south to reach tiny Agia Anna Beach.
