Holy Monastery of the Dormition of the Theotokos (Kimiseos Theotokou) in Mikrokastro

Dormition of the Theotokos Monastery in Mikrokastro: From Parish Church to Spiritual Beacon

The Holy Monastery of the Dormition of the Theotokos in Mikrokastro is one of the most important religious and historical landmarks of the Metropolis of Sisani and Siatista. Although the exact date of its founding remains unknown, it is believed to have been established in the 18th century. An inscription inside the church states that its frescoes were completed in 1797. The absence of any mention of an abbot or monastic community at the time suggests that the site originally functioned as a parish church for the nearby village of Mikrokastro. The first official reference to the site as a monastery appears in 1824, and in the early 1930s, it became the dominant monastery in the area following the merger of several smaller ones.

Despite the long absence of a permanent monastic community, the monastery played a vital role in the spiritual and social life of the region, offering both material and pastoral support to locals. During the tenure of Metropolitan Iakovos Kleombrotos (1945–1958), extensive renovation works began, including the construction of new buildings and the monastery’s transformation into a spiritual center. In 1993, the establishment of a women’s monastic brotherhood revitalized the site. The nuns devote themselves to a life of prayer, philanthropy, and service to the faithful.

The monastery is well known for its diverse activities, including agriculture, icon painting, and the production of medicinal ointments from herbs, officially approved by the Greek National Organization for Medicines (EOF). The monastery also houses a revered icon of Panagia Eleousa (The Merciful Virgin), considered a source of grace and blessing for the faithful. During major feasts—especially the Dormition of the Theotokos on August 15—thousands of pilgrims visit to venerate the icon. Traditional customs such as the "Cavalry Procession" and the ceremonial transfer of the icon to the town of Siatista, which date back to Ottoman times, continue to this day.

Today, the Holy Monastery of the Dormition of the Theotokos in Mikrokastro stands as a beacon of faith and tradition, offering spiritual guidance, hospitality, and hope to the faithful. It remains a living center of Orthodox Christianity, linking past and present through devotion and heritage.

Information

Holy Monastery of the Dormition of the Theotokos, Mikrokastro, Kozani, 50300

Phone: +302465071307

Opening Hours: Daily, morning and afternoon

Highlights

• Icon of Panagia Eleousa. The sacred icon of the Merciful Virgin is the monastery’s most venerated relic and a focal point for pilgrims.

• Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos. The main church, decorated with remarkable 18th-century frescoes from 1797, an excellent example of ecclesiastical art.

• Chapel of Saint Irene and Saint Raphael. A modern chapel built during the leadership of Father Stefanos Rinos, in traditional architectural style.

• Traditional Guesthouse. Constructed with respect to local architecture, offering warm hospitality to visitors and pilgrims.

• Historic Buildings of the Monastery. Renovated in the 20th century, these spaces reflect the monastery's long and storied past.

• New Wing with the Chapel of Saint John the Theologian. A recent addition featuring monastic cells and a chapel, providing a peaceful and contemplative space.

• Botanical Gardens and Cultivation Areas. The monastery cultivates grains, vegetables, and herbs, particularly those used to produce healing ointments. A walk through the gardens offers tranquility and insight into monastic life.

• Stone-Paved Courtyard. The traditional courtyard invites quiet walks and offers views of the surrounding hills and natural landscape.

• Historical "Cavalry Icon Procession". A unique tradition where horseback riders escort the miraculous icon to Siatista during the Dormition feast, blending religious devotion with local cultural heritage.

• War-Era Hideouts and Caves. The monastery preserves secret hideouts used for storing arms during times of conflict, offering a glimpse into its role in Greece's turbulent history.