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

The Spiritual Heart of Florina on the Summit of Varnountas

The Holy Monastery of the Dormition of the Theotokos of Kladorrachi is a historic and spiritual monument located at an altitude of 780 meters on Mount Varnountas, just ten minutes from the city of Florina. It was founded in the late 18th century by residents of the village of Kladorrachi and Florina, and soon became an important religious and cultural center in the region. During the Macedonian Struggle, the monastery gained strategic importance, serving as a meeting point for local leaders and captains who gathered there to organize their resistance. At the same time, the monastery expanded structurally, with new monastic cells built by craftsmen from Florina.

The wars of the 20th century, such as the Balkan Wars, World War II, and the Civil War, caused significant destruction to the monastery. Its buildings suffered serious damage and were gradually abandoned. However, in 1955, Metropolitan Vasileios of Florina reestablished the monastery by Royal Decree, breathing new life into it. Since then, the monastery has operated as a pilgrimage site, with the vision of reviving a fully organized monastic community remaining alive.

The monastery is dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos, celebrated each year on August 15th. This day holds special significance for the people of Florina, who flock to the monastery to participate in religious ceremonies such as the festal vespers, Divine Liturgy, and the symbolic Epitaphios procession of the Panagia. The monastery also houses the unmarried clergy of the Holy Metropolis of Florina and has produced three bishops, testifying to its importance in the ecclesiastical life of the region.

In 2021, the church of Hosiοs David was inaugurated, functioning as a chapel within the monastery and adding further spiritual significance to the site. The Holy Monastery of the Dormition of the Theotokos of Kladorrachi remains a living center of religious and cultural heritage, blending its rich history with its contemporary spiritual mission. Visitors can enjoy the serenity and spiritual peace it offers, while also connecting with the historical and cultural traditions of Macedonia.

Information

Holy Monastery of the Dormition of the Theotokos, Kladorrachi, Florina, 53100

Phone: 6976608119

Highlights

• The Katholikon of the Monastery. The central church of the monastery, dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos, is the main place of worship. During the celebration on August 15th, many faithful gather here for liturgical ceremonies.

• The Church of Hosios David. A chapel inaugurated in 2021, built on the monastery grounds and dedicated to Hosios David. It offers a special spiritual destination for visitors.

• Historic Significance and Macedonian Struggle Meeting Point. The monastery played a key role during the Macedonian Struggle, serving as a strategic meeting place for Macedonian fighters. Its involvement in the Greek resistance against the Ottomans marks it as a site of significant historical and cultural interest.

• Spiritual and Historical Legacy. The monastery is deeply rooted in the tradition and history of the Florina region and preserves the legacy of the Macedonian Struggle and other key historical events.