Panagia Kakaviotissa

Lemnos, Greece

The church of Panagia Kakaviotissa has been named one of Greece’s most unique and beautiful churches. It is located close to the village of Thanos, 4 km southeast of Myrina. The chapel is located inside a rock cavity on the top of Kakavos Mountain at an altitude of 260 meters. It was founded in 1416 by some monks who managed to escape the Turkish invasion in Agios Efstratios island. The church used to be a shelter for monks and hermits.

The hidden gem has a striking location from where it offers an impressive view to the sea and the mountainside of Lemnos. The best time to visit would be in the evening when the chapel is flooded by natural light. The chapel of Panagia Kakaviotissa celebrates on Tuesday after Easter. It requires a 20-minute walking through a dirt road from the end of the asphalt road, which is why this chapel is a frequent hiking destination on the island.

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Address

Thanos, Lemnos, Greece
See all sites in Lemnos

Details

Founded: 1416
Category: Religious sites in Greece

Rating

4.8/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Alexandru Mihai Pop (9 months ago)
A worthy hike to see rhis amazin place. Don't use google maps guidance. from the road Myrina-Mudros you do right yo the new ring road and than lefr
Kayla Murray (9 months ago)
The walk to the church with no roof is a magical one! Definitely one of my favourite things to do on the island. So stunning! Highly recommend going just before sunset.
Zo Tsi (2 years ago)
Amazing wild views while walking there, unique spot : a chapel with no roof hidden inside a curve of a rock. It takes a bit of climbing on stairs so carry water, good shoes maybe a hat if it is during early hrs and you will be compensated. About 20-30 min climbing depending on your fitness. Descend is very easy
James (2 years ago)
About a 10min drive along a dirt road and then a climb of about 20 mins if you're fit. The church itself is not much to see but the landscape and viewers are very impressive. Be careful in the heat of the day.
SK (2 years ago)
One of the most picturesque places on the island of Lemnos. Even for those not religious enough to visit the unique chapel of "Panagia Kakkaviotissa" dedicated to the holy mother of Jesus, there are other important reasons to make this small walk. First, you satisfy the need to walk safely on one of the rocky mountains of Lemnos. Second, you get to see amazing places while walking next to unique wild vegetation. Third, you will probably come across dozens of wild goats that will show you that climbing is much more difficult than walking. Nonetheless, it is rather tiring and you need to wear athletic shoes. Finally, during summer you need to avoid walking to the chapel between 11:00-15:00 because of the heat.
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