San Giovanni Theristis

San Giovanni Theristis is a Byzantine monastery in Bivongi featuring four corner pilasters with closed arches supporting a central dome. The building displays architectural elements typical of medieval Orthodox monastic design.

The monastery was founded around 1100 and became a major Basilian center in southern Italy. The monks later relocated to Stilo, shifting the focus of the monastic community to that location.

The interior walls display original Byzantine frescoes depicting religious figures and reflecting the artistic traditions of the medieval Orthodox faith. These works reveal how the monastery served as a spiritual center for its community.

Visitors should approach the building from different angles to fully appreciate the dome and pilaster structure. As a sacred space, appropriate respect and consideration for the site should be observed during a visit.

The relics of Saint John Theristis were once moved to Stilo but were returned in 2001 by the Patriarch of Constantinople. This return restored the site as an important place of pilgrimage for Orthodox believers.

Location: Bivongi

Inception: 11 century

Architectural style: Byzantine architecture

GPS coordinates: 38.49472,16.47111

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:30