The island of Amorgos is famous for its Monastery of Panaghia Chozoviotissa , founded in 1088 by the Byzantine emperor Alexios I Commenus . The monastery is dedicated to the Virgin and the icon of the Virgin Mary, which, according to locals’ testimonies, possesses miraculous powers, is carried around the island every year at Easter.
Clinging to the cliff and perched above a 300m altitude precipice, this monastery, a true architectural gem,is one of the most beautiful Byzantine monasteries in the Cyclades . In places it is barely more than five feet wide. The chapel was installed in one of the crevices of the rock. It is 2 km from Chora . It can be reached on foot via the path which starts from the windmills dominating Chora or by road.
From the car park, it takes around twenty minutes to access it via the stairs. Magnificent views of the cliffs streaked with schist and limestone and the sea. Superb contrast between the dazzlingly white monastery and the dark red cliff where it is embedded.
The monastery contains valuable icons, one of which represents the Panaghia (virgin), priestly vestments, and a collection of rare manuscripts. Only the chapel, the sacristy and the reception room are open to the public. At the end of the visit, you are offered a glass of water, a small glass of “ rakomelo ” (honey ouzo) and a Turkish delight.
From the Panagia Chozoviotissa Monastery , it only takes thirty minutes to reach Agia Anna , where one of the most beautiful coves on the island is hidden.
Several trails from the monastery lead respectively to Chisostomos (35 minutes), Theoskepasti (55 minutes), Asfontilitis (1h50) and Aegiali (3h30).
