It was at the Monastery of Anafonitria in Zakynthos that, Agios
Dionysios, the patron saint of Zakynthos, became a monk and lived out
the last years of his life in the 16th century.
If you are interested in the history of Zakynthos and would like to
visit some of the key historical sites during your holiday, then the
Monastery of Anafonitria should definitely be on your holiday itinerary.
The old home of the island’s patron saint, this charming spot really
transports you back to another era. This is one of just eight monastries
on the island the survived the earthquake of 1953 - you get a real sense
of the island's past in this magical location.
The Monastery of Anafonitria, from which the nearby village of
Anafonitria takes its name, is situated in the North West of Zakynthos,
on the outskirts of Anafonitria, near the larger town Volimes. The
Monastery of Anafonitria can easily be included in a Zante day trip. It
is very close to the Shipwreck Bay lookout tower, from where you are
able to view the spectacular Shipwreck Beach from above.
The Holy Monastery of Theotokos (Panagia) Anafonitria, dedicated to
the Virgin Mary, was founded in the middle of the 15th century during
the Venetian occupation of Zakynthos. The tower was originally built for
defensive purposes and is today used as a belfry. The main church of the
monastery, which is situated in the centre of the monastery grounds, is
a three-aisled basilica. The frescoes of the church are really
impressive and date back about five hundred years.
It was at the Monastery of Anafonitria in Zakynthos that, Agios
Dionysios, the patron saint of Zakynthos, became a monk and lived out
the last years of his life in the 16th century.
The monastery presently serves as a Parish Church for the neighbouring
village of Anafonitria. If you get the chance to visit the Monastery of
Anafonitria you will no doubt enjoy the great peace and serenity found
within the grounds. You can wander around the grounds at leisure and
breathe in the tranquillity of the atmosphere - an enriching Greek
Island holiday experience!
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