New Athos Monastery: A Spiritual Haven
Discover Abkhazia's spiritual heart: a majestic monastery blending Byzantine and Russian architecture with serene natural beauty.
Nestled in the heart of Abkhazia, the New Athos Monastery is a stunning architectural and spiritual landmark. Founded in the late 19th century by monks from Mount Athos, Greece, it showcases a unique blend of Byzantine and Russian architectural styles, attracting visitors with its golden domes, intricate frescoes, and serene atmosphere.
A brief summary to New Athos Monastery
- 3RQC+796, Akhali Atoni, GE
Local tips
- Dress modestly when visiting the monastery to respect its religious significance.
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and stunning sunrise views.
- Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and architectural details of the monastery.
- Explore the surrounding hiking trails for breathtaking views of the Black Sea and the New Athos area.
Getting There
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Walking
The New Athos Monastery is located almost in the very center of New Athos, making it easily accessible on foot from most parts of the town. From the center, follow the signs leading to the monastery. The walk is relatively straightforward, though some areas may have uneven terrain, so wear comfortable shoes.
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Public Transport
From other resorts in Abkhazia, you can take a minibus (marshrutka) to New Athos. These minibuses ply the main highway (E60) connecting all the coastal cities. Once in New Athos, get off at the center and walk to the monastery. The fare from the highway to the monastery is approximately 50-100 RUB.
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Driving
If driving, you have two options : 1. Drive directly to the parking lot next to the monastery on Kurortnaya Street. Parking is free but limited to 1 hour. 2. Drive along Eshba Street to the intersection with Waterfall Lane. Park along the road or near a cafe/market, and walk to the monastery (about 10 minutes up a dirt road). This option allows you to see other sights like the temple, waterfall, and museum.
Discover more about New Athos Monastery
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