2017

If you are visiting Kea for the first time, do not miss the chance to visit Panagia Kastriani monastery. It is located on the northern side of the island, only 12 km from Kea’s capital Ioulis. Constructed on the Kastri location [kastri means castle] it taken the same name, Kastriani.

According to the local tradition, dated back to the 1700 AD some shepherds saw a light coming from the top of Kastri hill. They started climbing to the hill to follow this light. After some digging they found an icon of Virgin Mary. This is the reason that they later built this small church dedicated to Virgin Mary. This small church is preserved until today. In 1912, a larger monastery was also constructed at the same area. The additional premises include a building with guest houses, cells and auxiliary rooms. At the entrance of the monastery there is also a tall bell tower. The monastery celebrates every year on August 15th and a large celebration takes place, with music, wine and foods.

When you arrive, if the sky is clear and there is no fog, the breathtaking view will blow your mind. If you stand at the very end of the road, you can clearly see a small island Giaros, the mainland located to your left and another Cycladic island at the far end of the horizon Andros.

If you are lucky enough to spend your vacation during August 15th, you will have the chance to experience the Greek traditional way to celebrate and honor Virgin Mary. Celebrations are identical to the way all saints are celebrated on their name day in all Cycladic islands, as well as the rest of Greece all around.