Monastery Ephraim, Orthodox monastery in Kondariotissa, Greece
Monastery Ephraim sits on a 151-meter hill and is surrounded by a protective wall enclosing about 21 hectares of land near Mount Olympus. The grounds include residential buildings, workshops, a chapel, and guest facilities arranged on the southern side.
Founded in 1983, this monastery represents a modern religious community built in the tradition of Orthodox monasticism in central Macedonia. It was dedicated to Saint Ephrem the Syrian, a 4th-century Christian figure.
The nuns living here create Byzantine paintings, mosaics, and religious objects by hand using traditional methods passed down through generations. Visitors can observe how these crafts shape the daily routine and spiritual practice within the monastery walls.
The monastery is located 1.5 kilometers north of Kondariotissa village and about 6 kilometers southwest of Katerini, accessible by local roads. Visitors should dress modestly and move quietly to respect the contemplative nature of the community.
The eastern garden contains an aviary where peacocks, pigeons, and chickens roam freely among fruit and olive trees. These animals are woven into daily life and create an unexpected blend of spiritual practice and natural surroundings.
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