The Monastery of Prophet Elias in Santorini is situated 4 km away from Pyrgos. The Monastery stands at an altitude of 586 meters above sea level on the highest point of the mountain of Prophet Elias. It was built in 1712 by the Hieromonks Gabriel and Joachim Belonias, that’s why it is not only a tourist attraction, but also an architectural monument.
Immediately after construction, the monastery became a strong economic place, also playing political and cultural role on the island. During Ottoman domination there was an underground school in the monastery, it was teaching people Greek language and literature. Since 1860 the monastery gradually began to lose its influence. In 1956 there was a strong earthquake on the island, which severely damaged the building.
Nowadays the monastery is a museum of religious art. A large collection of icons and relics is worth noting among its treasures, including the episcopal mitre of Patriarch Gregory V. It also has its own library with rare manuscripts and other valuable records.
While visiting the monastery you can also stay at the top of the mountain to enjoy fascinating landscapes of Santorini and other islands. And if the day is sunny and clear, the tourists will be able to see outlines of the Crete peak.
