Kos Agios Ioannis Monastery

Location: Kefalos

On the southern side of Kos island, on top of a hill just 7 kilometers from Kefalos village stands the lovely Monastery of Agios Ioannis (Saint John the Forerunner). Known for its traditional architecture, it is painted in blue and white and is surrounded by lush vegetation. A large centuries-old plane tree throws its shadow on the church and some wooden benches have been put around it for visitors to relax and enjoy the amazing views of the Aegean Sea.

Though small, the inside of the church is characterized by a solemn atmosphere. Beautiful icons and frescoes decorate the walls, while the ornate altarpiece also looks impressive. Within a few meters from the church, there is an old, half-ruined bell tower, as well as some dilapidated monastic cells. A beautiful mosaic with geometrical patterns gives a special charm to the monastery’s small courtyard.

The monastery celebrates on August 29th and lots of pilgrims flock there on its feast day to pay their respects to the saint.