Holy Monastery Stavrovouniou

This historic men's monastery rises imposingly upon the steep top of a mountain and is one of the oldest religious centers of the island. It was founded by Saint Helen, who transported there a precious piece of the Wood of the Holy Cross. In the space a particularly strict way of living prevails and the prohibition of women (avaton) in the central church is inviolably observed. Its privileged geographical location grants the pilgrims a unique, unobstructed view toward all directions of the horizon.