Sifnos Chrissopigi Monastery

Location: Chrissopigi

The cape of Chrissopigi is located on the south side of Sifnos, 8 km from Apollonia and in proximity to the seaside settlement of Faros. On top of this stunning rock formation lies the Monastery of Panagia Chrissopigi, one of the most famous sights in all of Sifnos and the saint protector of the island. Established in the 17th century, this monastery was built on the site of an older church in dedication to the Virgin Mary. The name Chrissopigi was given to the monastery by Parthenios, a Cretan monk who named it after the Monastery of Chrissopigi in Chania, where he resided before coming to Sifnos.

According to the local tradition, a group of nuns lived in the monastery during the Medieval ages. After an invasion from pirates, the nuns went into hiding, except for one nun who did not manage to leave on time. Chased by the pirates, the nun prayed to the Virgin Mary to save her and this is when the rock of the monastery was cut in two and the pirates fell into the sea. This is the local explanation for why the rock on which the monastery is built is separated from the rest of the island with a narrow stretch of sea.

A small trail of steps leads to the monastery, distinguished by its all-white exterior. Inside visitors will be able to see a collection of religious relics, along with a beautiful, wood-carved iconostasis. Of major interest is the icon of Panagia Chrissopigi which was found floating in the sea by local fishermen. This icon is thought to be miracle-working and the locals believe that it has saved the island from many disasters. The church celebrates on the day of the Assumption of Christ, 40 days after Easter.

The serene atmosphere and panoramic views of the sea provided by the monastery’s isolated location make this one of the most popular destinations on the island. North of the monastery, visitors will find an idyllic beach known as Apokofto, boasting silky sand and lush green trees around its shore. The more secluded Saoures Beach lies on the other side of the monastery, offering a pebbly shore and even more scenic beauty. The tall rocks around the monastery make for some exciting jumping-off points, while the calm nature of the sea attracts many beach-goers during the summer.