GREECE PELOPONNESE ARCADIA ELONIS

From Leonidio to Kosmas, the narrow road - worth taking for its own sake - keeps winding up through the Parnonas Mountains. After 16 km you see the remote monastery of Moni Elonis (Elonas), shining white buildings set spectacularly in the cliff side. On first appearance it looks like hanging there, with no access.

Founded in the 15th or 16th century, the monastery was rebuilt after the Greek War of Independence. Since 1972 it is a nunnery, today maintained by four nuns. - The church of the monastery is crammed with icons, but the most miraculous one of Virgin Mary holding a baby Jesus is said to have been painted by the Apostel Luke (it was stolen in 2006, but could soon be recovered by the Greek police). - Elonis monastery is open to visitors, suitably clad, from dawn till dusk.

Pictures below show the remote montain village of Kosmas.