Greece - Kalarrites, Kipina Monastery

The Kipina Monastery - a couple of kilometers outside the village of Kalarrites - is considered being one of the most impressive monasteries in Greece. It is wedged into a vertical cliff and seems to be a part of the rock. It was constructed in 1212 and dedicated to the Assumption of Virgin Mary. A short path from the road leads to the monastery; after crossing a wooden drawbridge that guarded the entrance from invaders, one can take a look inside.

The katholikon inside a small natural cave is decorated with impressive frescoes, dating from the late 17th century/beginning 18th century. The iconostase is carved and gilded. During our visit it was absolutely dark inside the church and had to use my mobile-phone light for making some pictures. A secret door leads to a 250 meters deep cave, which was used to protect nearby residents.

During its existence the monastery played an important historic role, acting as both a secret school during the years of the Turkish occupation, as well as a hidden arsenal throughout the Greek War of Independence and the following liberation of Epirus.

The monastery got its name probably from the gardens (kipoi in Greek) that were cultivated by the monks in the valley. Nowadays, there are no monks living in the monastery and it is free to visit. Just check if it is open, otherwise one has to collect a key from a nearby café.