Panagia Olympiotissa Monastery, Byzantine monastery in Elassona, Greece
Panagia Olympiotissa Monastery is a Byzantine religious site in Elassona built between 1295 and 1304 on a hilltop. The complex contains a church, guest accommodations, a library, and a natural history museum.
The monastery was founded around 1300 by Constantine Doukas and Theodore Angelos during the height of Byzantine religious life. Its construction marked an important moment when the region was a vital center for Orthodox Christianity.
The interior walls hold 14th-century frescoes showing Emperor Andronikos II Palaiologos and religious figures painted across the stone surfaces. These images reflect the devotion and artistic traditions that shaped Byzantine monastery life.
The monastery welcomes visitors to walk through the church, view the museum displays, and explore the grounds. Plan your visit during the warmer months when the site is most active and accessible.
The monastery holds an ancient icon of the Virgin Mary said to come from a former monastery near Mount Olympus. This sacred image draws pilgrims who seek blessing and spiritual connection to its long history.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
