Holy Monastery of Agios Konstantinos and Agia Eleni in Vogatsiko

A Beacon of Faith on the Slopes of Vogatsiko

The Holy Monastery of Agios Konstantinos and Agia Eleni of Vogatsiko is a significant spiritual and historical site, located in an idyllic area of the Kastoria regional unit, about twenty kilometers from the city of Kastoria and near the historic village of Vogatsiko. It was founded in 1882 as a church dedicated to the two Saints.

The church, which today serves as the katholikon of the monastery, quickly became a popular pilgrimage site, as the icon of Agios Konstantinos drew faithful from across Western Macedonia. Despite past financial and structural difficulties, the monastery was revitalized thanks to the efforts of Gerontissa Philothei, who settled at the monastery in 2005 and devoted herself to its restoration and development, with the support of the Metropolitan of Sisaniou and Siatista, His Eminence Pavlos.

The monastery celebrates twice a year: on May 21st, the feast day of Agios Konstantinos and Agia Eleni, and on Bright Thursday (the Thursday after Pascha), when crowds of faithful gather to venerate the icon of Agios Konstantinos and participate in the liturgical services. Easy access, due to the monastery’s proximity to the Kastoria–Kozani national road, contributes to the increased flow of visitors.

Today, the Holy Monastery of Agios Konstantinos and Agia Eleni of Vogatsiko remains a vibrant center of faith and culture, offering spiritual guidance and support to the faithful. With the blessing of Agiois Konstantinos and AgiaEleni, the monastery continues to preserve the spiritual heritage of the region, while the natural beauty surrounding it makes it an ideal destination for pilgrims and visitors alike.

Information

Holy Monastery of Agios Konstantinos and Agia Eleni, Neo Kostarazi, Kastoria, 52200

Phone: +302467073103

Visiting Hours: Daily, morning and afternoon

Highlights

• The renowned Icon of Agios Konstantinos and Agia Eleni. The icon is the monastery’s most significant treasure.

• The Katholikon of the Monastery. Built in 1882, the central church of the monastery houses the wonderworking icon of the Saints.

• The Chapel. A small sacred space within the monastery, where pilgrims can pray and keep vigil near the icon of Agios Konstantinos.

• The Holy Spring (Agiasma). Found within the sacred grounds, the agiasma is believed to be a source of healing and blessing for pilgrims.

• The Old Pilgrims’ Quarters. Originally constructed to accommodate pilgrims, these quarters are a point of historical interest and reflect the monastery’s former role in hosting visitors.

• The Monastery Grounds. Set amidst lush greenery with views over the Aliakmonas River, the peaceful surroundings invite prayer and reflection.

• The Monastery Courtyard. After the Divine Liturgy and procession of the icon, pilgrims gather here to celebrate with food and traditional treats.

• The Monastery’s Religious History and Tradition. The story of the monastery’s founding and evolution is itself a spiritual attraction, highlighted through the testimonies and oral traditions of the believers.