12 Sky-High Sanctuaries: Remote Monasteries with Unbelievable Views

5. The Monasteries of Mount Athos, Greece: A Monastic Republic

Mount Athos, a monastic republic in northern Greece, is home to twenty monasteries and a unique monastic community that has existed for over a thousand years. Known as the "Holy Mountain," Mount Athos is a center of Eastern Orthodox monasticism and spiritual life. Access to the peninsula is restricted, with entry granted only to male pilgrims and scholars, preserving the sanctity and traditions of the monastic community. The monasteries of Mount Athos are renowned for their architectural beauty, religious art, and extensive libraries of ancient manuscripts. Each monastery has its unique history and spiritual practices, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Orthodox Christianity. The monks of Mount Athos live a life of prayer, contemplation, and manual labor, following the ancient monastic rule of St. Basil. As we explore the monasteries of Mount Athos, we will uncover the spiritual and cultural significance of this monastic republic and its enduring influence on Eastern Orthodox Christianity. Mount Athos stands as a symbol of the timeless pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and the preservation of monastic traditions.