Monks of Athos

The Monks of Mount Athos are a monastic community located on a Greek peninsula, known for centuries of spiritual retreat, prayer, and religious dedication within Eastern Orthodoxy. Comprising around 20 monasteries and numerous smaller monasteries, they follow a strict ascetic lifestyle focused on prayer, work, and contemplation. Access is limited to men, and visitors must adhere to specific rules. Mount Athos functions as a spiritual center, preserving ancient religious traditions, manuscripts, and icons, and serves as a symbol of Orthodox Christian monasticism and religious heritage.