Mega Spilaio, Greek Orthodox monastery in Kalavryta, Greece
Mega Spilaio is a monastery built into a 120-meter cliff face at 940 meters elevation in the Kalavryta region, spanning eight floors. The structure incorporates a natural cave system where monk cells and religious spaces are arranged within the rock.
The monastery was founded in 362 AD and survived multiple destructions over the centuries. In 1943, German forces attacked the site, killed monks, and burned the structure, marking a turning point in its modern history.
The monastery houses a wax and mastic icon of the Virgin Mary, traditionally linked to Saint Luke, which draws pilgrims throughout the year. Visitors can observe this revered religious image within the complex and understand why people continue to gather here for spiritual devotion.
The site contains a museum with carved wooden crosses, ancient manuscripts, and religious objects on display for visitors. Access is available via the Diakofto-Kalavryta road, making it relatively straightforward to reach.
The structure integrates directly into a large natural cave system within Mount Chelmos, a place that held significance in ancient Greek mythology as a refuge for legendary figures. This connection between the monastic building and these mythological sites creates a layering of history that spans from antiquity to the present day.
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