Anafonitria Monastery: A Sanctuary of History and Forgiveness
Discover Zakynthos' spiritual heart at the Anafonitria Monastery, a historic site of faith, art, and tranquility in a picturesque setting.
Nestled in the northwest of Zakynthos, the Anafonitria Monastery is a 15th-century Byzantine monument dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It's renowned for its historical significance, connection to St. Dionysios, and peaceful atmosphere. The monastery features impressive architecture, including a defensive tower converted into a belfry, and houses a revered icon of the Virgin Mary brought from Constantinople.
A brief summary to Anafonitria monastery
- Anafonitria monastery, Elation, 290 91, GR
- +302695031042
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Dress modestly when visiting the monastery; respectful attire is required.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach, just a short drive away.
- Visit the local shops in Anafonitria village for traditional products like honey and olive oil.
Getting There
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Driving
From Zakynthos Town, drive northwest towards Anafonitria village. The journey is approximately 30 km and takes about 40 minutes. Follow the signs to Anafonitria; the monastery is located near the village center. Ample parking is available near the monastery. There are no tolls on this route.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Zakynthos Town or the airport. A taxi ride from Zakynthos Town to Anafonitria Monastery costs approximately €27-€33 and takes around 30 minutes. From Zakynthos Airport, a taxi to Anafonitria costs around €90-€105 and takes approximately 45 minutes. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
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Public Transport
Take a bus from Zakynthos Town to Alykes. From Alykes, take a taxi to Anafonitria. The bus and taxi combination takes approximately 44 minutes and costs around €15-€20. Check local bus schedules for accurate timings, as they may vary.
Discover more about Anafonitria monastery
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monastery of Agios Georgios Krimnon
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Porto Steniti
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Venetian Tower
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Viewpoint from Xigia Beach to Alykes Beach
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Alykes beach
11.3 km
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Eleftherotria Holy Convent
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Μιλάνειο ναυτικό μουσείο (Milan Museum)
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Παραλία Πλακάκι
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Orthodox Church Of Ascension
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Casa di Ugo Foscolo
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Pl. Agiou Markou
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Πλατεία Αγίου Μάρκου
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The Little Farm
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Zakynthos
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Church Agios Nikolaos of Molos
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Unmissable attractions to see
Navagio
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Navagio Beach Viewpoint
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Porto Vromi Maries
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Ruin of Monastery of St. Andrew
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Old Olive Tree
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Pomnik
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Goumas Estate Winery - Art & Wine
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Askos Stone Park
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Shiza Cross (Kambi)
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Mikro Nisi Boat Rentals
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Makris Gialos Beach
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Xigia Sulfur Beach
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Essential places to dine
Sunset Michali's Taverna
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Mikro Nisi Restaurant
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Taverna Xigia
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Porto Limnionas Tavern
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Porta del Mar Restaurant
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MAYA at Porto Zante
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Menir Taverna
19.7 km
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M-eating
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The Halfway House
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Avra Taverna Restaurant
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PREMIER
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Fiore Fine Dining
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TAVERNA AKROTIRI
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Bassia - Η Μπασία Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
VENUS Tourist Shop
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Yria handmade Tsilivi
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Medusa Boutique
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Tourist Shop
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Unique
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Joulsetal
23.1 km
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Hamsa Boutique
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Nikos Aliazis Boutique Zakynthos
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Dot
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Male/female karakas stores
23.1 km
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Giraffe (kid's shoes boutique)
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PYLARINOU MARIA
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Frou-frou Artwear
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Hondos Center
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Kaliva Pub
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The Breeze Bar
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Milos pub
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Paradise Cocktail Bar
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The Oasis Cocktail Bar
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Barracuda Beach Bar
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Bitters Cocktail & Wine Bar
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ZEROS CLUB
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Rescue Club
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Sizzle Club
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Club Barrage
24.5 km
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Magic Club
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Loco Bar
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Cajablanca Club
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Steilgeher
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Inside Bar
43.4 km
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