Holy Monastery of Agios Antonios in Siapka

Monastery of Agios Antonios in Siapka: A Historic Refuge in the Pierian Mountains

The Holy Monastery of Agios Antonios in Siapka is a historic and spiritual refuge nestled in the beautiful Pierian Mountains of the Kozani regional unit. It is located in the area of “Siapka,” about 12 kilometers from the village of Kastania and 18 kilometers from Servia, offering a picturesque and secluded setting. The monastery is accessible via a dirt road winding through dense forests of fir, pine, and fern. Its foundation is estimated to date back to the 11th century, though the exact date remains unknown. For centuries, it served as an important spiritual center, initially under the jurisdiction of the Archbishopric of Elassona and later that of the Monastery of the Holy Trinity of Lariou.

At its peak, the monastery housed fifteen cells and held significant land and forest property, with an economy based largely on livestock farming. However, in 1854, the region became a battlefield between Greek revolutionaries and Ottoman forces, leading to the looting and destruction of the monastery. Despite efforts to rebuild—such as the donation of four icons from Mount Athos in 1901—the monastery suffered further damage during World War II, when it was used as a shelter by partisans. In 1962, following the departure of its last monk, the monastery was abandoned.

Today, the monastery has been preserved thanks to the efforts of Monk Efsevios, who settled there in 2008 and has overseen its restoration. The monastery church, a single-aisled basilica with a narthex, is of notable architectural interest and retains fragments of frescoes, though they have suffered damage over time. Next to the church lies the "room with the chains," where in the past, individuals with mental illnesses would seek healing through the intercession of Agios Antonios.

Every year on September 1st, the monastery celebrates the feast of Agios Antonios, drawing many faithful from the surrounding region. The Cultural Association of Kastania plays an active role in organizing the celebration, helping to preserve the monastery’s historical memory and spiritual legacy. The Holy Monastery of Agios Antonios in Siapka remains a place of faith, history, and natural beauty, offering visitors a space of hope and reflection.

Information

Holy Monastery of Agios Antonios in Siapka, Kastania, Servia, Kozani, 50500

Phone: +306979851211

Highlights

• Katholikon of the Monastery: The small church of Agios Antonios, a single-aisled basilica with a narthex, stone-paved floor, and restored interior frescoes.

• Room with the Chains: A space where the mentally ill once sought healing through the blessings of the Saint.

• Stone Inscription (1766): Preserved on the southern exterior wall, commemorating a historical renovation.

• Ruins of the Monastic Complex: Remnants of the 15 monastic cells and auxiliary buildings.

• Rare Stone Fountain: A conical-roofed stone spring, a rare example of monastic stone architecture.

• Wooden double door with carved decoration: Original preserved door with intricate wood carvings.

• Religious Icons (1901): Four icons donated from the Athonite community, works of the Hagiorite iconographer Paisios.

• Fortress-like Architecture: The monastery is built with a defensive design, reminiscent of a small castle.

• Scenic Location in Siapka: Set in a lush ravine of Mount Titan, surrounded by forests of fir and pine.

• Religious Feast (September 1st): Each year, the monastery hosts a pilgrimage and celebration in honor of Agios Antonios.