Holy Monastery of the Holy Trinity (Agia Triada) in Velventos

From Refuge to Pilgrimage: The Journey of Agia Triada in the Pierian Mountains

The Holy Monastery of Agia Triada in Velvento is a historical and spiritual landmark, situated at an altitude of 900 meters on the slopes of Mount Pieria, overlooking the Pindos mountain range and the town of Velvento. Known for its architectural beauty and historical importance, the monastery is one of the most prominent religious monuments in the region. Although its exact founding date remains unknown, the first recorded reference appears in the triptychs of the Dormition of the Theotokos in Velvento in 1652, with names of hieromonks and monks listed until the late 18th century.

During the Ottoman era, the monastery played a key role as a refuge for persecuted Christians and as a base for freedom fighters resisting Ottoman rule. Its function as a center of resistance and spiritual support gives it lasting historical significance. However, from the mid-19th century, the monastery began to decline, with its final dissolution mentioned in a letter by Metropolitan Konstantios in 1890. After 1912, monastic life ceased entirely, but the church and surrounding buildings were preserved thanks to the efforts of the people of Velvento and the Ladies’ Brotherhood “Agia Triada.”

The present-day church, built on the site of the original, features icons dating back to 1748 and 1863, and the complex has undergone several renovations. The monastery celebrates two main feast days: Pentecost and the Monday of the Holy Spirit, as well as August 29th, the Feast of the Beheading of the Holy Forerunner. Despite the absence of a permanent monastic brotherhood, the monastery remains a place of pilgrimage and spiritual reflection, maintaining its deep connection with the faith and heritage of the local community.

With its blessed location and rich history, the Holy Monastery of Agia Triada in Velvento offers visitors the opportunity to experience the tranquility and deep spiritual tradition of the area. As a space where history and natural beauty meet, the monastery continues to attract and inspire all those seeking to connect with the roots and traditions of the region.

Information

Holy Monastery of Agia Triada, Velvento, Kozani, 50400

Phone: +302461036050 (Metropolis of Servia and Kozani)

Highlights

• The Church of Agia Triada. The main church of the monastery, dedicated to the Holy Trinity, is its most prominent feature. It is built on the site of the original church founded by Hieromonk Makarios. The architecture and sacred icons, such as the “Agia Triada” (1748) and “Christ” (1863), are notable ecclesiastical works.

• The Belfry (Kodonostasio). Located on the western side of the courtyard, the belfry is one of the monastery’s most distinctive elements and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding area.

• The Courtyard and Gates. The monastery’s courtyard is enclosed by two gates: the western gate, which is part of the belfry, and the northern gate, leading to the new guesthouse. The courtyard offers a peaceful setting for prayer and walks.

• The Original Church Site. Though the first church built by the monastery’s founders no longer survives, its location beneath the current church endows the site with a strong sense of spiritual and historical continuity.

• The Papadiko. Located to the west of the church and behind it, this small room serves as sleeping quarters for clergy during evening vigils and services.

• The Two-Storey Building (Anoi and Magirio). Found to the right of the western gate, this structure includes the kitchen and storage area on the ground floor, and a large hall (anoi) used for gatherings and events on the upper level.

• The Guesthouses. Renovated with the support of the people of Velvento and the Ladies’ Brotherhood “Agia Triada,” the guesthouses offer accommodations for visitors in a serene environment.

• The View and Natural Setting. The monastery sits in a striking location, with sweeping views of Velvento, the Pindos range, and the surrounding countryside. The natural beauty and calm of the area make it ideal for hiking and spiritual retreat.

• Historical Role During Ottoman Rule. The monastery served as an important center of resistance during the Ottoman occupation and a refuge for persecuted Christians and fighters. This legacy remains a powerful presence in the monastery’s atmosphere.