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Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary Tsambika (Kyra Psili)

Discover the Holy Monastery of Tsambika: panoramic views, religious significance, and a touch of local legend await atop Rhodes' eastern coast.

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Perched atop a hill overlooking Tsambika Beach, the Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary Tsambika, also known as Kyra Psili, is a significant religious and historical site on the island of Rhodes. The monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is known for its stunning panoramic views and its association with miracles, particularly related to fertility.

A brief summary to Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary Tsambika (Kyra Psili)

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the 300-step climb to the monastery.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
  • Bring water, especially during the summer months, as there are limited facilities on the way up.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Tsambika Beach for a relaxing afternoon.
  • Take your time to enjoy the panoramic views from the top, including Tsambika Beach, Kolymbia, and Lindos.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Rhodes Town, follow the EO95 road towards Lindos for approximately 25 km. Look for the yellow sign indicating 'Holy Monastery Santa Maria Tsampika' and turn left. The road will take you to the lower car park, where you can also see the chapel of Parekklḗsi. Continue up the steep hill to the upper car park if possible, to shorten the walk. Parking is free. From the upper car park, it's approximately 15-20 minutes walk up 300 steps to the Monastery. Be aware that the road to the upper car park is steep.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Rhodes Town towards Lindos or Tsambika Beach. Buses that stop at 'Tsambika Monastery' or 'Tsambika Crossroad' are suitable. From Tsambika Beach, there are hiking trails to the monastery, but they are very steep. From the Tsambika Crossroad bus stop, it is approximately 2.6km to the monastery, with an elevation gain of over 200 meters. A one way ticket is about €3.30. From the parking area, it's approximately 15-20 minutes walk up 300 steps to the Monastery.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Rhodes Town, Kolymbia and other major locations on the island. A taxi can take you to the parking area at the base of the Monastery. From there, it's approximately 15-20 minutes walk up 300 steps to the Monastery. Expect to pay a premium compared to local city taxis.

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Discover more about Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary Tsambika (Kyra Psili)

The Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary Tsambika, or Kyra Psili, stands as a beacon on the eastern coast of Rhodes, near Archangelos. This small, white Byzantine church, reconstructed in 1770, offers visitors a serene escape and breathtaking views. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the monastery's history is interwoven with local legends. One tells of a shepherd who found a glowing icon of the Virgin Mary on the mountain, which they named Tsambika, meaning 'spark' in the local dialect. Another legend speaks of a woman who was unable to conceive praying to the icon and miraculously becoming pregnant, leading to the tradition of naming children born after such prayers Tsambikos (for boys) and Tsambika (for girls). To reach the monastery, visitors can drive partway up the hill and then climb approximately 300 steps. The climb is well worth the effort, as the summit provides 360-degree views of the surrounding coastline, including Tsambika Beach, Kolymbia, and, on a clear day, Lindos. Inside the monastery, you'll find religious artwork, an ornately carved wooden altarpiece, and a peaceful atmosphere. The monastery also houses a small ecclesiastical museum with icons and manuscripts dating from the 14th to 19th centuries. Whether you're drawn by the spiritual significance, the historical tales, or simply the stunning vistas, the Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary Tsambika offers a memorable experience.

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