In the heart of Skiathos lie treasures veiled within the walls of monasteries and churches, each bearing a distinct architectural charm and a profound spiritual aura.
Perched majestically, the Monastery of Evangelistria stands as an emblem of spiritual significance on the island. Nestled beneath Karaflitzanaka, Skiathos's highest peak, and caressed by the Lechouni stream, this monastery, adorned with lush greenery and tended flowers by the devoted monks, is situated 4.5 kilometers north of the town along the peripheral road.
In 1807, Nikotsaras, a prominent leader of the Kleftes, sought refuge in this monastery, catalyzing the islanders' religious enlightenment and spirituality. Collaborating with the revered Holy Abbot Niphon, alongside the famed captain Giannis Stathas, they crafted and hoisted the inaugural Greek flag, bearing a white cross on a blue background, a symbolic gesture sanctified in September 1807, graced by the presence of Theodoros Kolokotronis, a distinguished general of the Greek War of Independence.
Today, the monastery's sanctum shelters three museums: the Sacred Relics Museum, safeguarding invaluable sacred artifacts; the Folklore Collection; and a gallery dedicated to the Balkan Struggles, courtesy of the generous donation by Andreas Potamianos.
The cathedral, an architectural marvel known as the catholicon, embodies a cross-in-square design with a dome, adorned with remnants of 18th-century frescoes and a meticulously carved wooden iconostasis, exuding exquisite beauty.
In recent years, a model vineyard has been cultivated to revive the renowned Alypiakos Oinos, a wine immortalized in the tales of Alexandros Papadiamantis.
Journeying to the opposite side of the island, one encounters the Monastery of Panagia Eikonistria or Kounistra, nestled 13 kilometers west of Chora, along the road leading to Aselinos beach. A sacred haven, it is believed to be the site where the icon of Panagia was discovered in 1650 by Symeon, a revered local ascetic.
Panagia, the island's patron saint, is venerated twice annually. The monastery's cathedral, a solitary basilica with a dome, constructed in the 17th century, boasts a resplendent carved and gilded wooden iconostasis. Intricate frescoes adorning its walls narrate the divine tales of Christ and the saints, dating back to 1741 and 1805. Nearby lies the Monastery of Agios Ioannis, adorned with equally mesmerizing frescoes, constructed in 1726 on the verdant slopes of Kounistra mountain.
Two kilometers north of Evangelistria, nestled amidst the serene Kakorema region, lies the Monastery of Agios Charalambos, where the esteemed writer Alexandros Moraitidis embraced monastic life in his final years, adopting the name Andronikos. Annually, on February 9-10th, locals flock to honor the revered saint.
Amidst the tranquil, secluded valley, adorned with olive groves and pine trees, overlooking the enchanting Kechria beach, stands Panagia Kechria. The monastery's cathedral, retaining its original form, features a quaint single-aisled dome nave with side apses. Of notable allure is the intricately carved wooden iconostasis, paying homage to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary.