Kefalonia Monastery of Agrilion

Location: Sami

The Monastery of Agrilion in Kefalonia: Upon reaching Sami, driving northeast will lead you toward a hill where you will find the Monastery of Agrilion! A highly-important religious site for all island residents, the monastery is a frequent visit amongst all visitors of Kefalonia due to its history and its stunning views over the island and the Ionian Sea, as well as over the neighboring Ithaca, the town of Sami, the Agia Efimia Village, and the nearby Antisamos Beach!

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Nowadays, you are free to visit the chapel, as well as the ruins of the old bell tower! There are plenty of monks and nuns that permanently live there, and some priests often visit the site. Furthermore, a newly-built church next to the Monastery of Agrilion is also open for all guests, especially during the lively festivals on August 15th and August 24th (the day of remembrance of Kosmas Etolos).

The Monastery of Agrilion was first founded during the early 18th century by two shepherds when they discovered a miracle-working image of the Virgin Mary. It is also believed that Saint Cosmas of Aetolia (1700 - 1779, also known as Father Kosmas Etolos), who played an important role in the Greek Enlightenment, resided in the monastery for the duration of his trips to Kefalonia. Moreover, the sacred image has now been incorporated into a larger depiction of the Virgin Mary.

How to get there

The Monastery of Agrilion is located in Sami village.

Private transfers: We recommend using an online pre-booked Kefalonia transfer service, which provides transfer by taxi, minibus, or private VIP car and arranging a pickup directly from the airport, port, or your hotel. Alternatively, there's the option of arranging a pickup by a local driver directly at the following numbers: 0030 694 511 8866, 0030 694 530 6145, 0030 699 561 9605, or booking your taxi online.

Car rental: There's the option of renting a car in Kefalonia and picking it up directly from the airport, port, or your hotel. Using a car rental allows visitors to discover the Monastery of Agrilion and many other places of interest in Kefalonia at their own pace.

Public transfers: The central bus station of the island is located at Argostoli. There are buses from Argostoli to Sami during the day. Consider that time schedules might change according to the season. Check the official timetables here.
Tip: Since buses don’t always stop at every scheduled stop of their itinerary, our advice to visitors is to inform the driver about their final destination, so that he makes a stop there.