If you are planning a trip to Arcadia, don’t miss out on visiting the Philosopher’s Monastery. You can combine your visit with a tour of Dimitsana, this wonderful village with a long history, or explore the impressive Karytaina. Imagine walking among these historical landscapes, feeling the land tell you its stories, from the battles of the Revolution to the spiritual strength that kept the faith alive.
The Monastery of Philosophers is located in one of the most impressive spots in the Peloponnese, in the gorge of the Lousios River. It is a monastery that has written its own history since 963 AD, when it was founded by Ioannis Lampardopoulos, known as "The Philosopher". The Old Monastery is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, built inside a cave, and will enchant you with its rare frescoes. Here you will feel the mysticism that the space exudes, as the monastery was the legendary "Hidden School" during the Ottoman period, where Greek education and culture were preserved.
You can follow the paths that lead from the Old to the New Monastery of Philosophou, which was founded in the 17th century and is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. This monastery, fully renovated, continues to offer spiritual peace to its visitors. Its rich iconography and authentic Byzantine style will transport you to other eras, while the view of the Lousios Gorge will take your breath away.
The journey you will take to get here is an adventure in itself. The Lousios River, with its natural beauty and the hermitages hidden within the caves, compose a setting that you will hardly find anywhere else. Think of the feeling of the cool air as you walk along the paths, the sound of the water flowing ceaselessly and the energy that emanates from these centuries-old monasteries. Your experience here will be much more than a simple excursion – it will be a journey into the history and nature of Arcadia.
Distance from Andritsaina: 45 km.
