Monastery of Panachrandou
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A fortified Byzantine monastery on the slope of Mount Katafigi, the monastery of Panachradou
is rumoured to be 1000 years old. Located almost 9 km from Chora and 25 km from Batsi
town, accessible by car and bus. The site offers an exceptional view of the town of
Andros and the surrounding area. The establishment of the monastery owes to General Nicephorus
Phocas the II in the 10th century, who subsequently became emperor of the Eastern Roman empire,
ruled from 963 to 969. As with most Christian Orthodox monasteries, a legend never fails
to circulate as to it's humble beginnings. According to tradition, the monastery was
built in a place shown by the icon of the Holy Mother (Panachrantos).
The icon is attributed to St. Luke and is still kept on a stand next to the southern
door to the altar of the main church of the monastery. The retable and the entrance panel
to the narthex are terrific examples of post-Byzantine art. Another heirloom found at the monastery
is the relic skull of St. Panteleimon. The monastery celebrates it's saint on July 27
and August 15 every year.
