Monastery of Evangelistria

The Monastery of Evangelistria, dedicated to the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary, was founded in 1712 and sits on the wooded slopes of Mount Palouki about 4 km from Skopelos Town. The fortress-like exterior belies an unexpectedly beautiful courtyard inside, planted with flowers and centered on a well. The katholikon (main church) is decorated with fine 18th-century frescoes.

The monastery is active, run by nuns, and open to visitors during daylight hours. Dress modestly — shoulders and knees covered. A small shop sells honey, products, and icons. The drive or hike through the pine forest to reach it is itself worth doing: the air is fragrant with resin, and the forest paths are cool even in summer. From the monastery, views extend over the southern coast of the island.

things to do sight
A story
The monastery was founded in 1712 by a monk named Kaisarios Daponte, who was also a poet and chronicler. His writings about 18th-century monastic life in the Aegean are among the few detailed accounts of that period. The monastery's library still holds manuscripts from his era.