Monastery of the Ascension of Christ at Proti of Serres

At the base of a ravine, between two mountain peaks of Paggaio and at an altitude of 930 meters, the Holy Monastery of Ascension was built in the 18th century, seven kilometers from the village of Proti Serron. Originally it was a male monastery, but since 1979, when it was reconstituted, it has been a female monastery, with about 20 nuns engaged in sacred art, hagiography, and the production of therapeutic products from pure, fine materials.

The convent has experienced several disasters and raids, mainly because of its support for the liberation struggles of the region during the two World Wars. It was a part of the neighboring monastery of Panagia Ikosifoinissa. The monastery houses the relics of Saints John Chrysostom and Arsenios of Cappadocia.

Its special feature is the rare, cross-shaped cathedral, built in the style of the Holy Ascension of the Eleon Land of the Agioi Topoi. Architecturally, the structure exploits every available space with complex shapes and includes remarkable buildings, which in harmony with the beauty of the landscape enchant its visitors.