Sifnos is an island boasting the impressive number of 365 churches and monasteries! This is undoubtedly the most eloquent proof of its strongly religious character. Most of them are in perfect alignment with the typical Cycladic architecture. Blue domed, whitewashed with exceptional frescoes and mosaics, they will take you on travels to an era far away. Sacred, almost mystical, Sifnos monasteries have shaped the island’s history over the centuries.
The most notable monastery in Sifnos is the Monastery of Panagia Chrissopigi. Dating back to 1650, this is the most iconic monastery on the island. Located on the verge of a peninsula, as if it is about to submerge to the Aegean. According to the legend, this strip of land was torn in half by a divine power. It is when the local women tried to protect themselves against the pirates that the peninsula was formed. Panagia Chrissopigi is the patroness of the island.
A little further away from Katavati village, there is another monastery worth visiting. Panagia Fyrogia Monastery was built somewhere in the 16th century and has been successfully restored by the Hellenic Society for the Protection of the Environment and Cultural Heritage. Travelers will also have the chance to visit the Pottery Museum on site. Monastery of Profitis Ilias Apsilou is built on the highest peak of the island. This is standard procedure in many Cycladic islands and other regions of the Greek mainland. In the same area, you will find the Church of Agios Eliseos.
Monastery of Vryssiani at Exabela, Monastery of Chrissostomos at Kato Petali and Monastery of Stavros at Faros are just few of the finest Sifnos monasteries to visit. Schedule a tour to some of those exquisite attractions, so that you fully comprehend their genuine characteristics. Whether you are a devout believer or not, this is going to be a unique experience in Sifnos!