Theotokos Kosmosoteira, Byzantine monastery and church in Feres, Greece
Theotokos Kosmosoteira is a Byzantine monastery near Feres with a distinctive cross-dome architectural style. The central domed structure is supported by columns and was originally decorated with religious frescoes, many of which remain visible today.
Isaac Komnenos, son of Emperor Alexios I, founded this place around 1152 as his personal residence and chose it as his final resting place. During Ottoman rule, the building served as a mosque until Greece regained control after 1920 and later restored it as a church.
The name refers to the Mother of God as Savior of the World, reflecting the monastery's spiritual purpose. Visitors today can sense this religious role through the preserved frescoes and the way the sacred space is arranged.
This site is located in a rural area, so planning your arrival in advance makes sense. Visitors should know that access is on foot and sturdy footwear is recommended for comfortable exploration.
The monastery once housed a hospital with multiple beds as well as bathing facilities that were open not only to monks but also to villagers. This combination of religious community and practical services for local people was remarkable for medieval times.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
