Holy Monastery of the Nativity of the Theotokos (Genethlio Theotokou) in Kleisoura

From the Byzantine Era to Tradition and Spirituality

The Holy Monastery of the Nativity of the Theotokos in Kleisoura is nestled in a lush green valley on the northeastern slopes of Mount Moriki, at an altitude of 970 meters, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding natural landscape. It is located approximately 35 kilometers from Kastoria, near the border between the regional units of Kastoria and Florina. The monastery was founded in 1813 by Monk Isaiah Pistas, who came from the Iviron Monastery of Mount Athos. According to tradition, Isaiah re-established the monastery on an older site, possibly dating back to the 14th or 15th century.

The katholikon (main church) of the monastery is a three-aisled basilica with a dome, featuring impressive iconography painted by Georgios from the Chionades of Epirus. The frescoes, which include rare themes from the Creation of the World, and the wood-carved, gilded iconostasis, crafted in 1772 by Konstantinos Linotopitis, are remarkable examples of ecclesiastical art. With its fortified design, the monastery complex includes the katholikon, monks’ cells, and auxiliary buildings.

The monastery played a significant role in Greece's national struggles. During the Greek War of Independence (1821) and the Macedonian Struggle, it served as a refuge for fighters and hosted Pavlos Melas, a key figure in the Macedonian resistance. During World War II and the Greek Civil War, it provided shelter for local residents. In 1992, the monastery was converted into a convent and today houses a small sisterhood under the abbess Elder Efraimia.

The monastery is also associated with Saint Sophia of Kleisoura, a modern-day ascetic who lived there from 1927 to 1974. She was canonized in 2011 by the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and her feast day is celebrated on May 6.

Today, the Holy Monastery of the Nativity of the Theotokos in Kleisoura is an important pilgrimage site, attracting faithful from all over Greece. With its rich history, sacred art, and deep spiritual legacy, the monastery remains a place of peace, prayer, and inner reflection.

Information

Holy Monastery of the Nativity of the Theotokos, Kleisoura, Kastoria, 50200

Phone: +302463094330

Highlights

• The Katholikon of the Monastery. A three-aisled basilica with a dome, adorned with frescoes by painters from Chionades and an 18th-century gilded, wood-carved iconostasis.

• The Icon of the Virgin Mary. Housed in a shrine to the left of the Holy Doors.

• The Cell and Personal Belongings of Agia Sofia. The ascetic elder Sofia lived and became sanctified at the monastery (feast day: May 6).

• The Chapels. Dedicated to Agia Paraskevi, Agios Konstantinos, Agia Eleni and Agios Ioannis the Baptist (the latter located about 150 meters from the main complex).

• The Hermitage of the Holy Trinity. Situated at an altitude of 1,300 meters, a former monastic retreat.

• The Fortified Architecture. The monastery’s structures include monk cells, arched passages, and an inner courtyard, reflecting its defensive nature.

• The Site where Pavlos Melas Stayed. A historic location linked to the Macedonian Struggle.

• The Natural Setting of the Monastery. Built in a fertile valley, with scenic views of the Moriki mountains.

• The Tomb of Saint Sophia. A significant pilgrimage site for the faithful.