Monastery of Zoodohos Pigi

The 18th-century Monastery of Zoodohos Pigi, or means life-giving spring, is located about four kilometers from Poros Town on a pine-covered slope and is a unique example of island monastery architecture. Its name derives from the island’s only spring, which is lauded in local tradition for its healing properties.

The small compound is noted for its high walls, magical view, and church with a wood-carved iconostasis crafted in Cappadocia in the 17th century.

The icon of the Zoodohos Pigi was painted around 1850 by the Italian artist Raphael Ceccoli, who is said to have visited the monastery seeking a cure for his young daughter. Ceccoli is said to have painted the icon in his daughter’s image after she died; the girl is buried in the church courtyard.

The graves of Manolis Tombazis and Nikolaos Apostolis, admirals who fought in the 1821 independence war, are also on the monastery grounds.

Zoodohos Pigi Monastery can be reached by car or by bus, during the season.