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Monastery of Paleokastritsa: A Spiritual Retreat with Breathtaking Views

Discover a historic monastery with stunning views of Paleokastritsa's bays, Byzantine art, and tranquil gardens on Corfu's captivating coastline.

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Perched on a verdant hill overlooking the Ionian Sea, the Monastery of Paleokastritsa is a serene escape combining history, religion, and natural beauty. Founded in the 13th century, the monastery offers stunning panoramic views, a peaceful atmosphere, and a glimpse into Corfu's rich cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Monastery of Paleokastritsa

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during the peak summer months.
  • Dress modestly when visiting the monastery; shoulders and knees should be covered.
  • Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking panoramic views of Paleokastritsa Bay.
  • Toss a coin into the well in the courtyard for good luck and a promise to return to Corfu.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Paleokastritsa Beach (Agios Spyridon), the monastery is approximately a 15-20 minute uphill walk. The route follows a steep, narrow road shared by pedestrians and vehicles, so exercise caution. The road winds through lush groves of cypress and olive trees. A traffic light system controls traffic flow on the one-way section of the road. There are souvenir shops and an old olive press to view on the way to the top. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From Corfu Town, take the Green Bus A9 to Paleokastritsa. The bus departs from the KTEL Green Bus Terminal (Leof. Eptanisou), a 15-minute walk from Corfu's historic town center. The bus journey takes approximately 45-50 minutes. From the Paleokastritsa bus stop, it is a 15-20 minute walk uphill to the monastery. A one-way bus ticket costs around €2.50.

  • Taxi

    From Corfu Town, a taxi to the Monastery of Paleokastritsa takes approximately 30 minutes. Taxi services like Corfu Taxi Services and Alfa Taxis offer trips to Paleokastritsa. The cost is approximately €40-€50. From Paleokastritsa beach, a taxi to the monastery is a short ride, costing approximately €10-€15.

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Discover more about Monastery of Paleokastritsa

The Monastery of Paleokastritsa, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is one of Corfu's most iconic landmarks. Located 25 kilometers northwest of Corfu Town, it stands on a hill on the right side of Paleokastritsa Bay, offering dramatic views of the coastline. Founded in 1225, the monastery has a rich history, having been destroyed and rebuilt several times. The architecture showcases a blend of styles, with the current structure largely dating back to the 18th century. The buildings are constructed of stone, featuring arched doorways and courtyards adorned with olive trees and flowers. Inside the church, visitors can admire beautiful icons and frescoes. The monastery complex is divided into two levels. The lower level features a flower-filled garden, a traditional olive press, and a shop selling religious items and local products made by the monks. The upper level houses the church, a courtyard with a well, and a small museum displaying Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons, religious vestments, and other relics. A whale skeleton, said to have been killed by a fisherman in the 19th century, is also on display. Visitors can explore the monastery's museum, admire the views, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Legend says that tossing a coin into the courtyard well ensures a return trip to Corfu. The monastery celebrates the Assumption of the Holy Theotokos on August 15th and the Feast of the Life-Giving Spring on the first Friday after Easter. Remember to dress modestly when visiting this active religious site. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and shawls are often available at the entrance for visitors to borrow.

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