New Athos Monastery, Orthodox monastery in Novy Afon, Abkhazia, Georgia

New Athos Monastery is a large complex containing six churches arranged within a walled compound on elevated ground overlooking the town. The buildings display a mix of Byzantine design and Russian architectural elements, with golden domes that stand out prominently from the surrounding area.

Founded in 1875 by monks from the St. Panteleimon Monastery on Mount Athos, with funding from Emperor Alexander III, the monastery was looted during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877–1878. Rebuilding began in 1880 and lasted twenty years; the complex was consecrated on 28 September 1900. Closed by Soviet authorities in 1924, it served as a military hospital during the 1992–1993 conflict and was returned to the church in 1994.

The monastery is named after Simon the Canaanite, whose relics rest beneath the ancient church beside it; a cave where he prayed was consecrated in 1884 and holds an icon of the apostles Andrew and Simon. The complex is claimed by the Holy Metropolis of Abkhazia, the Abkhazian Orthodox Church and the Georgian Orthodox Church.

The monastery sits on a hilltop and involves some walking to explore, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Visitors should be aware that dress codes apply and vary based on gender.

Artists from the Russian village of Palekh painted the religious artwork covering the walls and ceilings between 1911 and 1914. These craftspeople brought their specialized painting technique to the complex, which remains visible in the intricate details throughout the interior.