Zygos Monastery (Frangokastro)
Μονή Ζυγού
A 10th-century Byzantine monastery ruin just outside the borders of Mount Athos, with a surviving central church and walls. It is one of the few places where visitors can get close to the monastic architecture of Athos.
Zygos Monastery was founded at the end of the 10th century and was one of the earliest monasteries on Mount Athos. It declined and was abandoned after the 12th century, and later became known as the “Frankish Castle” (Frangokastro). The site lies about 3 km southeast of Ouranoupoli, just outside the fence along the Mount Athos border. Archaeological excavation has revealed the katholikon (central church), the refectory, towers and the foundations of the ring walls, which have been reinforced and restored. It is an archaeological site under the Greek Ministry of Culture. Opening hours are limited and irregular, so check the on-site notices. Admission is inexpensive. You can drive or walk along the coastal path, but there is no shade along the way.
Opening hours
Limited opening hours; check archaeological department notices
Nearby sights
- Mount Athos Coastal Cruise
- Ouranoupoli Beach
- Byzantine Tower of Ouranoupoli (Prosphorion)
- Drenia Islets
- Ammouliani Island
- Alykes Beach, Ammouliani