Ithaca 7-9 October 2025

Departure early in the morning from Tripoli (Kolokotroni Square) and Nestani. Stop along the way for coffee and continue to the port of Patras, where we will board the ship bound for Ithaca. Arrival on the island and check-in at our hotel in Vathy, the capital of Ithaca. In the afternoon, free time for a stroll in the harbour with its traditional cafes and beautiful corners.

After breakfast, we start our pilgrimage trip:

• Visit to the historic Holy Monastery of Katharon dedicated to Panagia, built at an altitude of 600 m with a breathtaking view of the entire island.
• Pilgrimage to the Holy Church of Agios Raphael in Perachori, a few kilometres outside Vathy.
• Then, we head to Agios Ioakim, a place of deep contemplation. In the afternoon, return to Vathy and free time for rest or a sightseeing tour of the alleys.

After breakfast, time for a last stroll in Vathy or for purchasing local products. Then departure by ship from the port of Ithaca to Astakos. Arrival and return by road to Nestani and Tripoli.

Departure from Patras for Ithaca on 07/10/2025 and

From Ithaca to Astakos on 09/10/2025

A few words about the Holy Monastery of Katharon:

The Holy Monastery of Panagia Katharon is the most important monastery in Ithaca and is considered a spiritual and religious center of the island. It is located in the southern part of the island, built at an altitude of about 600 meters, offering a unique panoramic view of all Ithaca, the Ionian Sea, and even parts of Kefalonia and Zakynthos.

The foundation of the Monastery dates back to around the 17th century. According to tradition, the monastery was built at the point where shepherds miraculously found the icon of Panagia, which reappeared there, even when it was moved elsewhere. This icon, the Panagia Kathariotissa, is the holiest relic of the Monastery and is honored with special splendor.

The Monastery celebrates every year on September 8, on the feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos, and gathers a multitude of pilgrims from Ithaca and the surrounding islands. The feast is accompanied by traditional customs, a procession of the icon, and a local festival.

Besides its religious interest, the Holy Monastery of Katharon also impresses with its location. The site is considered the "balcony of Ithaca", with a breathtaking view that takes your breath away and calms the visitor.

Saint Raphael in Ithaca:

In Ithaca, Saint Raphael is honored with special devotion, the miraculous Saint of Lesbos, who became known throughout Greece and the Orthodox world through the miraculous events of his appearance.

The church dedicated to the Saint is located near Perachori, a few kilometers outside Vathy. It is a small but devout little church, built with love and offering from the island's inhabitants, who have experienced the help and grace of the Saint in their lives.

The faithful flock to light a candle and ask for the intercession of Saint Raphael, who is considered a protector in difficult times, a healer of diseases, and a comforter of the afflicted.

The atmosphere of the church, amidst the serenity of the natural environment, offers spiritual uplift and inner peace to every visitor. It is no coincidence that many describe their visit to Saint Raphael as an experience of deep emotion and spiritual renewal.

The Venerable Ioakeim the Papoulakis, also known as Saint Ioakeim, is particularly revered in Ithaca, as the island is connected to his life and actions. Saint Ioakeim lived in the 18th century and was a figure of asceticism, charisma, and miracles, who dedicated his entire life to teaching the Gospel and supporting the faithful.

In Ithaca, there is a small church dedicated to his memory, in an idyllic location amidst nature, where a multitude of pilgrims flock to receive a blessing. There, visitors can pray, light a candle, and get to know the spiritual legacy of the Saint.

Saint Ioakeim is considered a comforter of the faithful and a miracle worker, especially in times of trials. His reverence in Ithaca is deeply rooted in the hearts of the inhabitants, who recognize him as their protector and spiritual support.