Xeropotamou Monastery
Ιερά Μονή Ξηροποτάμου
A 10th-century monastery on the hillside above Dafni Harbour, home to what is said to be the largest surviving fragment of the True Cross. It is often the first stop for pilgrims entering Athos.
Xeropotamou Monastery is traditionally said to have been founded in the 10th century. It ranks eighth among the twenty major monasteries of Athos. Most of the buildings today were rebuilt in the 18th century. A courtyard surrounds the central Katholikon of the Forty Holy Martyrs, which has 18th-century frescoes. The monastery's most famous relic is a fragment of the True Cross, said to be the largest in the world. It also holds manuscripts and icons. Walking up the paved path from Dafni Harbour takes about 30 to 40 minutes. You can also take the bus to Karyes and get off partway. You need a Mount Athos entry permit (Diamonitirion). Access is for men only, and if you want to stay overnight, you must book with the monastery by phone in advance.
Opening hours
Follows monastery schedule; closes after sunset
Nearby sights
- St. Panteleimon Monastery (Rossikon)
- Karyes & Protaton Church
- Simonopetra Monastery
- Xenophontos Monastery
- Osiou Grigoriou Monastery
- Dochiariou Monastery
- Iviron Monastery
- Stavronikita Monastery