Kalamitsia Monastery: A Jesuit Retreat in Ruins

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Discover the haunting beauty of Kalamitsia Monastery in Naxos, a 17th-century Jesuit retreat blending Baroque architecture with serene natural surroundings.

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Kalamitsia

Explore the haunting remains of Kalamitsia Monastery, also known as the Jesuit Palace, near Melanes village in Naxos. Built in the 17th century on the site of a Venetian mansion, this once-grand retreat offers a glimpse into the island's history and architectural blend, though caution is advised due to its unrestored condition.

A brief summary to Kalamitsia

Naxos, 843 00, GR
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Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Wear sturdy shoes as the monastery grounds are uneven and contain loose stones.
Explore the monastery in the early morning or late afternoon for a more serene experience and better lighting for photos.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities on-site.
Take extra care when exploring due to the unrestored nature of the site, including potential hazards like loose stones and debris.

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Getting There

Driving

From Naxos Town (Chora), head southeast on Leoforos Naxou towards Agios Georgios Beach. Continue for approximately 10 minutes until you reach the intersection with the road leading to Melanes. Follow the signs for Kalamitsia; the monastery is about 5 minutes away. The road to the monastery is a dirt road. Free parking is usually available near the site.
Public Transport

From Naxos Town, take Bus Line 4 to Melanes. Check the KTEL Naxos bus schedule for current departure times, as they may vary. From Melanes, it is approximately a 2 km walk along a dirt road to the monastery. Alternatively, arrange for a taxi from Melanes to the monastery. A taxi from Naxos Town to Kalamitsia costs approximately €20-€30. Bus tickets from Naxos Town to villages typically range from €1.80 to €6.20.
Taxi

Taxis are available near the port, the airport, and central spots of Chora. A taxi from Naxos Town to Kalamitsia takes around 20 minutes and costs approximately €20-€30. Ensure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your trip. Taxis in Naxos have a base fare of €3.50 and a price per km of €1.

Discover more about Kalamitsia

Kalamitsia Monastery, also called the Jesuit Palace, is a historical site located approximately 2 km from Melanes village and 9 km southeast of Naxos Town (Chora). Constructed between 1679 and 1683 by the Jesuit monk Roberto Sauze, the monastery was built upon the ruins of an older Venetian mansion. It served as a summer retreat for Jesuit monks until around 1773 before being occupied by other Catholic orders.The monastery's design showcases a blend of French Baroque and local architectural elements. The two-story structure includes ancillary buildings such as stables, laundry rooms, and a dovecote. Visitors can explore the grounds, discovering gardens, cisterns, and a central staircase that once led to a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Natural water springs still flow through the monastery, highlighting its advanced irrigation system for the time.Today, Kalamitsia Monastery stands largely unrestored, providing an authentic, albeit precarious, experience. Recent efforts have begun to preserve this unique historical monument. Visitors should exercise caution due to loose stones, fallen walls and debris. Despite its ruined state, the monastery retains its beauty and grandeur, offering a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Naxos' rich cultural heritage.