Cultural Highlights
Ouranoupoli is rich in history and tradition
- Byzantine Tower (Tower of Prosforion): Standing proudly at the edge of the harbor, this 14th-century tower was originally built by the Vatopedi Monastery to protect the area from invasions. Today, it houses a museum with exhibitions about the village’s Byzantine past and the extraordinary work of the Loch couple, who helped restore and preserve local culture. The tower offers panoramic views of the sea and village.
- Monastery of Zygou: Located 2 km from Ouranoupoli, the Monastery of Zygou is the first built on the Mount Athos peninsula, dating back to the 10th century. After the borders of Mount Athos were reduced in 1924, the monastery was abandoned and buried under debris, forgotten for decades. In 2000, archaeological excavations uncovered its ruins, revealing walls, cells, and stunning views of the Athos Peninsula. The monastery is now accessible and open to visitors, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history and spiritual heritage.
- Holy Week Celebrations: During Holy Week, witness the Good Friday procession of the handmade Epitaph, crafted entirely from beads and chrysanthemums. The Resurrection service on Saturday night in the village square, beneath fireworks and the illuminated Byzantine Tower, is unforgettable.
- Festivals: Experience the lively Celebration of Saints Constantine and Helen (May 21) and the traditional Klidonas festival (June 23), full of music, dancing, food, and local spirit. The highlight of the summer is the Full Moon Poetry Night in August—an evening of literary readings and folk music under the stars.
