The Holy Monastery of Panormitis in Symi

The Holy Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis in Simi Dodecanese: The village of Panormitis, to the southwest of the main town, hosts the main monastery of Simi island, a monastery dedicated to the Archangel Michael. The exact construction date is unknown but, according to an old manuscript, it existed in the 15th century. It is said that this monastery was built on the ruins of an ancient temple, but this has not been proved.

The Monastery of Panormitis is tied with the Christian faith of the Symiot people. The interior is covered with wall paintings from the Byzantine period, made by the native hagiographers Nikitas and Michaelos Karakostidis. The image of the Archangel Michael is depicted in one of the frescoes. There are also nice wooden carved icons, most of which are gifts from the pilgrims.

The monastery also includes two museums in its yard. The first museum hosts silver icons, pontificals, Russian epitaphs, ecclesiastical vessels, and various religious items. The other museum displays an exhibition of folk culture, including items relevant to fishing, agriculture and shepherding. The Monastery of Archangel Michael also hosts a library with Byzantine manuscripts of religious, historical and philosophical content.

Some books date from the 16th and the 18th century. Furthermore, a gallery includes paintings of the monastery and its surrounding landscape. The Monastery of Archangel Michael in Panormitis village celebrates on November 8th and a religious festival is held every year with a lot of pilgrims coming to the island.Read more