New Athos Simoneau-Kananitsky Monastery, New Athos

Your first glimpse of New Athos Simoneau-Kananitsky Monastery encompasses shining golden domes rising above the surrounding forest, which runs down to the sea. Construction began in 1875; the Russian Orthodox monks who lived there built the complex. The monastery, an enclosed rectangle, surrounds the church of St. Pantaleon and the 50 m (164 ft) bell tower, which still is active today. Enter the church to view frescoed walls painted in the early 20th century, colored with gold, blues, reds, and white depicting scenes from the Bible. Walk the tiled floor and view ornate metalwork and fixtures in this large space that, during the Soviet era, was used as a hospital, storage space, tourist base, and museum. A visit to New Athos Simoneau-Kananitsky Monastery represents just the start of the adventure when you use our New Athos itinerary site to plot your vacation.