In Greece, 5.3 Million Euros Allocated for the Restoration of Athos Monasteries

The authorities of Central Macedonia have allocated 5.3 million euros from EU funds for the restoration of infrastructure and architectural monuments in seven monasteries of the Holy Mountain of Athos. This was reported by the Union of Orthodox Journalists in Greece.

Governor Athina Aidona signed seven decisions on funding works at the monasteries of Karakallou, Koutloumousiou, Xenophontos, the Great Lavra, Simonopetra, Saint Paul's, and the skete of Saint Anna. The funds allocated through the EU programme (ESPA) will go towards the restoration of structures dating from the 16th to 18th centuries, many of which are in a state of disrepair.

At the Karakallou Monastery, the catholicon and a 16th-century tower will be restored, while at Koutloumousiou the western section of the buildings will be renovated. At the Simonopetra Monastery, the old olive press will be converted into an exhibition hall with icon-painting workshops, and at the Monastery of Saint Paul, dedicated facilities for the care of elderly monks will be created. At the Great Lavra, plans are in place to save from complete ruin the cell of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos, which has stood vacant since the 1980s.

According to the Governor, the aim of the projects is to make the monastic buildings safe and functional for monks and pilgrims, while preserving the unique architectural heritage of the Holy Mountain of Athos.

As previously reported by the Union of Orthodox Journalists, the number of pilgrims to Athos has grown by one third over the past year.

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