Nestled on the quiet mountainside above the picturesque village of Pythagorio, lies the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani. Panagia Spiliani is a spiritual place known for its peaceful atmosphere and deep historical roots. At the heart of the monastery lies a cool, expansive cave that houses a sacred chapel and a baptism bath. A visit to Panagia Spiliani guarantees visitors a mystical experience and stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the valley of Pythagorion below.

This monastery is a dependency of the Hozeviotissa monastery of Amorgos.

Holy Cave Church

The name Panagia Spiliani means “Virgin Mary of the Cave.” The heart of the monastery lies actually inside a large cave on the premisses. 95 Steps lead down into the large cave. The cave was originally used to extract blocks of massive limestone to build walls and many buildings for the town of Samos. Inside the cave, a small chapel is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is believed to date back to the 11th century. During the Roman period, these caves were used by a female diviner named Fyto. The cave was turned into a religious monument some time after this period. The chapel holds the very faded and old marble icon of Panagia Spiliotisa. 

To the locals the cave has always been a place of shelter during challenging times, resulting in a strong bond and deep faith. During the Ottoman period of occupation and WWII, the locals used the caves to hide the woman and children of the island. Even today, the cool and quiet atmosphere makes it feel like a hidden sanctuary.

The Story of the Miraculous Icon

Panagia Spiliotisa was also called Panagia Kaliarmenissa (the good traveler), a name derived from old legends. In one instance, the icon of the Virgin Mary had been stolen by strangers who were taking it to their home. As they were unloading their boat, the icon fell into the sea and broke into five pieces. Over a long period of time, these pieces, carried by the sea, returned to the island of Samos. The locals collected these fragments and the icon was restored and returned to its original location. 

According to the legends, this icon disappeared multiple times of the island — only to miraculously find its way back to Samos. Samians believe it was the Virgin Mary herself who wanted to stay there. Because of these stories, the icon is seen as a wonder, and many visitors come to light a candle and say a quiet prayer. It’s a place of hope and comfort for locals and visitors alike.

A Special Place for the People of Samos

The monastery isn’t just a tourist attraction, it’s a big part of the village’s heart and soul. Providing a safe space for the entire village during times of war, locals still come to celebrate the Dormition of the Virgin Mary or to baptise their children.

What You’ll See

Apart from the cave church, the monastery grounds include sleeping quarters for monks, a peaceful courtyard, a small shop with religious items, and a larger church above the cave. The view from the monastery is breathtaking — you can see all of Pythagorio and the valley, the Aegean Sea, and even the Turkish coast!

Panagia Spiliani is one of those places where you can really feel the spirit of Samos — peaceful, powerful, and full of stories