Fourth Salutations to the Theotokos at the Holy Monastery of Kernitsa – 20/03/26

Our office organises a pilgrimage trip to the Holy Monastery of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary of Kernitsa.

Departure 16.30 from Tripoli.

🕍 Holy Monastery of Panagia Kernitsa — Arcadia, Greece

The Holy Monastery of Panagia Kernitsa is one of the oldest and most historic monasteries in the Peloponnese and all of Arcadia. It is located near the village of Nymfasia Gortynias, at an altitude of about 840 m., in a lush, mountainous and imposing location, between the mountains of Argyrokastro and Thavmasio.

🪨 History & Significance

• Foundation: The exact date is not absolutely known, but many historians place the foundation of the Monastery in the 12th century. There are also sources that mention it was built in the 14th century (1386).
• Name: The Monastery got its name "Kernitsa" from the medieval town that existed in the area.
• Dedicated to: the Dormition of the Virgin Mary (Panagia), with the catholicon bearing images of the Virgin Mary and being a centre of worship and pilgrimage.
• Historical role: During the Turkish occupation, the Monastery functioned as a refuge and possibly as a "secret school" where letters were taught under occupation. Additionally, it was connected to the Greek War of Independence, offering help and protection to fighters and persecuted people.

🌿 Environment & Visitation

• The Monastery is built on a rock with a panoramic view of the surrounding nature, making it particularly picturesque and impressive for visitors.
• It operates today as a women's Monastery and is an important pilgrimage site for believers, especially on the feast day of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary on 15 August.
• In the courtyard, there is also a small church where, according to tradition, the icon of the Virgin Mary was found in a cave before the main temple was built.