Kipouria
Kipouria Monastery Kefalonia
Kipouria Monastery stands majestically what can only be described as one of the most scenic and pretty locations in Kefalonia. It has stunning views overlooking the beautiful cobalt blue sea. “Kipos “means “Garden” in Greek. The monastery took that name because of the gardens that surrounded it.
Located about 15 kilometers from the town of Lixouri the roads from Lixouri to the monastery are of good condition, you will go through some quaint villages on the way.
The monastery has a cliff top location with vineyards next door that belong to the church.
The Monastery was founded in 1750 by the archbishop of Paxi, Chrisanthos Petropoulos.
The monastery has been badly damaged in the past. in 1915 it was bombarded by the French while in poor weather conditions the cruiser mistakenly took the chimney for the enemy’s ship.
Like most buildings on the island it was destroyed in the terrible earthquake of 1953 and one man alone, the monk who lives at the monastery, has restored the last remaining buildings painstakingly. Various Saints’ relics are kept in the monastery as well as the skulls of its founders.
The main feast days are 25 March and 14 September.
The monastery is open to visitors and fantastic views can be had in the courtyard. The sunset from here is wonderful. The peace and grandeur will mesmerise you.
