Xenophontos Monastery

Xenophontos Monastery is situated next to the sea on the western shores of the Mount Athos Peninsula, between the Monasteries of Docheiariou and Pantokratoros. It was founded in the late 10th century and derived its name from its first abbot, Xenophontas, who built the monastery's old Catholicon. The uniqueness of this monastery lies in the fact that it has two Catholica (main churches).

The old Katholikon is one of the smallest on Mount Athos and is considered a masterpiece of art, featuring remarkable frescoes from the renowned Cretan School (mid-16th century). The new Katholikon, constructed in the first half of the 19th century, is the grandest in the region. Throughout the centuries, the monastery experienced periods of prosperity and decline, expanding its buildings while also suffering from pirate raids and destruction. Today, it continues its spiritual work while engaging in traditional arts such as icon painting and wood carving.

The monastery houses numerous treasures, including a 13th-century icon of the Virgin Mary of Grace, a piece of the True Cross, blood relics, and remains of saints. It also preserves two mosaic icons of Saints George and Demetrius from the 11th century, embroidered vestments, chalices, and icons dating from the 12th to the 18th century. The library boasts over 500 manuscripts, some of which date back to the 10th century, along with approximately 10,000 printed books and newer publications.