Dourachani monastery

Dourachani monastery is an Orthodox monastic building on the northeastern shore of Lake Pamvotida featuring white stone walls, a bell tower, and traditional wooden loggias. The structures surround a stone-paved courtyard and connect to monastic cells for residents.

Durahan Pasha of Thessaly founded this monastery in 1434 after enduring harsh winter conditions with his army on the frozen lake near Ioannina. The site commemorates this survival through its remote location on the water's edge.

The interior church displays painted walls and a carved wooden iconostasis showing religious imagery that reflects the traditions of Orthodox monastic life. These decorative elements reveal how faith is expressed through the physical space.

The monastery sits on the lake shore facing Ioannina and is best reached by foot along the waterside path. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes since the ground can be uneven and the space is actively used for religious services.

The bell tower houses a stork nest that visitors often overlook, though the birds regularly visit the lake area. An old cypress tree beside the roof provides food and shelter for finches throughout the year.

Location: Ioannina Municipality

GPS coordinates: 39.67438,20.91595

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:44