Holy Monastery of Agios Georgios in Eptachori
A Religious and Cultural Landmark in the Heart of Taliaros
The Holy Monastery of Agios Georgios in Eptachori, nestled on the northern foothills of Mount Taliaros in the region of Kastoria, is one of the most important religious and cultural landmarks in Western Macedonia. Located approximately 37 kilometers south of Nestorio and just 2 kilometers southeast of the village of Eptachori, the monastery sits on a wooded plateau overlooking the valley of Eptachori and the Taliaros forest. Access is via a scenic dirt road branching off the Kozani–Ioannina National Road, offering visitors a peaceful and picturesque approach.
The monastery’s history dates back to the depths of the 17th century. According to local tradition, the founder and first abbot was a priest from Paliochori who, after enduring personal hardships, dedicated his life to God and donated his estate to establish the monastery. The katholikon (main church), built in 1625, is a fine example of post-Byzantine art, adorned with rich frescoes likely painted by local iconographers from Eptachori or Linotopi. The wall paintings depict sacred scenes alongside glimpses of everyday life, while inscriptions and small painted details offer a window into the spirituality and customs of that era.
The church is a three-aisled, Athonite-style basilica with a cruciform layout and side apses. A large central dome rises over the middle of the structure, accompanied by two smaller domes on the western side. Inside, a beautifully carved wooden iconostasis and the stone-built walls create a solemn and reverent atmosphere. Above the katholikon stands a small cemetery chapel dedicated to the Entry of the Theotokos into the Temple, also adorned with 17th-century frescoes and topped with a distinctive stone roof—a fine example of traditional local architecture.
Though modest in size, the monastery features a complete architectural complex, including two-story monastic quarters and guest accommodations for pilgrims. The Holy Monastery of Agios Georgios in Eptachori remains a living monument of faith, history, and culture, preserving the spiritual legacy of the region and inviting visitors to explore its rich Orthodox heritage.
Information
Holy Monastery of Agios Georgios, Eptachori, Kastoria, 50007
Phone: +302467085584
Highlights
• Katholikon of the Monastery. A three-aisled Athonite-type basilica with a cruciform layout and side apses. The church is adorned with exceptional post-Byzantine frescoes by local artists.
• Frescoes of the Katholikon. The interior walls are covered with frescoes depicting scenes from sacred scripture as well as everyday life—such as hunting, farming, and craftsmanship—offering insight into the life and faith of the time.
• Domes of the Church. The prominent central dome and two smaller western domes are striking elements of the monastery’s architecture, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
• Cemetery Chapel of the Entry of the Theotokos. Located directly above the katholikon, this smaller church features 17th-century frescoes and a traditional stone roof.
• Monastic Buildings. The surrounding structures include living quarters for the monks and hospitality areas for guests, reflecting the well-organized nature of the monastic community.
• Founder's Legacy. According to tradition, the monastery was founded by a priest who, following the tragic loss of his family, devoted his life to God and built the monastery with his own resources—a poignant story that adds depth to the site's history.
• Natural Setting. The monastery is built on a forested plateau at the foot of Mount Taliaros, offering breathtaking views of Eptachori and the surrounding mountains, as well as a serene environment for prayer and reflection.