Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Savior (Metamorfosi Sotiros) in Dryovouno

Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour in Dryovouno: From its Foundation in 1592 to a Living Heritage of Kozani

The Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour in Dryovouno is the oldest monastery in the prefecture of Kozani and one of the most important religious and historical landmarks in Western Macedonia. Located just outside the village of Dryovouno, in the municipality of Voio, it stands as a place of spiritual reflection and pilgrimage. According to an inscription above the main entrance of the church, construction began "from the foundation" in 1592 and was completed and restored in 1652, indicating a building process that lasted several decades. However, some traditions suggest that the monastery may have been founded as early as 1101, although no written sources confirm this.

The monastery is closely tied to significant historical events and personalities. One of the most notable is the visit of Agios Kosmas of Aetolia, who, according to tradition, healed the monks from an epidemic using holy water from a nearby spring. A chapel dedicated to Agios Kosmas now stands on that very spot.

During the national struggles, the monastery played a pivotal role, serving both as a shelter for the persecuted and a base for freedom fighters. It hosted key figures such as Dimitrios, brother of Rigas Feraios, Kapetan Vardas, and Pavlos Melas. In 1943, the monastery was destroyed by Italian forces, resulting in the loss of invaluable historical archives. Renovation works began in 1996, and today it once again operates as an active spiritual center of the region.

Currently, the monastery is home to 15 monks under the guidance of Archimandrite Stefanos Rinos, who was appointed spiritual father and abbot in 2020 by the Ecumenical Patriarchate. The monastery continues to attract pilgrims who seek the peaceful and contemplative atmosphere it offers, maintaining a rich legacy of faith, history, and tradition. It remains a living beacon of spirituality and cultural heritage in the region of Kozani.

Information

Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour, Dryovouno, Kozani, 50003

Phone: +302468023086

Opening Hours: Daily, morning and afternoon

Highlights

• The Katholicon (Main Church): Dedicated to the Transfiguration of the Saviour, the central church was founded in 1592 and completed in 1652. It contains 17th-century frescoes depicting biblical scenes and saints and combines Byzantine and post-Byzantine architectural elements.

• Chapel of Agios Kosmas of Aetolia: Built near the spring where Saint Cosmas is believed to have miraculously healed the monks during an epidemic.

• Scenic Views and Natural Surroundings: Situated at a high elevation, the monastery offers panoramic views of the Voio region. Its tranquil and natural setting makes it an ideal place for prayer and meditation.

• Historical Relics: Despite being burned by the Italians in 1943, a few relics survived. Notably, a silver censer from 1632, originally belonging to the monastery, is now preserved at the Monastery of the Dormition of the Theotokos in Mikrokastro.

• Renovated Monastic Complex: Since 1996, extensive restoration work has revived the monastic buildings. Today, the facilities house a thriving monastic brotherhood under the leadership of Elder Stefanos Rinos.