Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Savior (Metamorfosi Sotiros) in Dasochori
A Refuge of Faith and Tradition in the Heart of Deskati
The Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour in Dasochori is a significant spiritual and historical site, nestled in a lush, serene landscape just 3 kilometers from Dasochori and 7 kilometers from the town of Deskati. Founded during the Ottoman era, prior to 1797, the monastery flourished as a vibrant spiritual center, home to a large brotherhood of monks. During this period of foreign rule, the monastery also operated as a “Kryfo Scholio”—a secret school—preserving the Greek language, Orthodox faith, and national identity amid adversity.
In 1968, a new church was constructed to replace the older katholikon, which suffered severe damage in the devastating earthquake of 1995. As a result, the church was demolished and a new, majestic katholikon dedicated to the Divine Transfiguration of the Saviour was built, completed as part of the monastery’s broader restoration. The new church includes several chapels, while a modern three-storey wing on the eastern side houses a chapel dedicated to Agios Ioannis the Theologian.
The monastery also played a role during World War II, serving as a headquarters for British forces and a munitions store during the Greco-Italian War. However, in the years that followed, it was abandoned, looted, and left in ruins. Its revival began in 2000, thanks to the devoted efforts of Mother Mariam, who assumed the role of abbess and led the reconstruction and spiritual reawakening of the monastery. Today, the sisterhood consists of three nuns under her guidance.
The monastery’s contribution to the local community extends beyond its spiritual mission. It engages in charitable activities and provides support to those in need. Following the restoration efforts between 1998 and 2004, visitors can now admire the old katholikon, dedicated to the Transfiguration of the Saviour, along with the original monastery buildings, including the guesthouse (archontariki), kitchen, and the chapel of “Axion Esti.” Additional spaces include the nuns’ quarters, the assembly hall, and underground chambers once used for various monastic functions.
The Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour in Dasochori is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, offering visitors the opportunity to venerate, participate in worship services, and enjoy the peace of this sacred place. Today, it stands as a landmark of spiritual and cultural significance for the region, blending its timeless traditions with its historical legacy.
Information
Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Savior (Metamorfosi Sotiros), Dasochori, Deskati, 51200
Phone: +302462031286
Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily)
Highlights
• Katholikon: Both the old and new catholicon of the monastery are dedicated to the Divine Transfiguration of the Saviour. The new church, built after the 1995 earthquake, is grand and elegant, while the restored older church remains an important religious and historical treasure.
• Chapels: Within the katholikon and its surroundings, visitors will find chapels such as the one dedicated to “Axion Esti” and the chapel of Agios Ioannis the Theologian, located in the monastery’s new three-storey wing.
• Guesthouse and Kitchen: The old archontariki (guest quarters) and kitchen, restored during renovation works, offer a glimpse into the daily life and hospitality traditions of the monastic community.
• Monastic Quarters and Assembly Hall: The living quarters for the nuns and the hall for communal gatherings, also refurbished, showcase the rhythm of contemporary monastic life.
• Underground Spaces: These traditional subterranean chambers once served various monastic needs and now provide an intriguing insight into the practical life of the monastery.
• Location of the Monastery: Set in a verdant, peaceful location with sweeping views of the surrounding area, the monastery offers a place of spiritual renewal and tranquility. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and fresh mountain air while experiencing a sacred space steeped in prayer and tradition.