Monastery of Agios Gerasimos

The monastery of Agios Gerasimos is one of the most important religious sites in Kefalonia and serves as a spiritual centre for Orthodox Christians. It is dedicated to Agios Gerasimos, the patron saint of the island, who is revered for his miracles and healing powers. He lived in the 16th century and performed many miracles during his lifetime, including healing the sick and casting out demons.

The monastery from the outside.

The monastery attracts pilgrims and visitors from all over Greece and other countries who come to pay their respects to Agios Gerasimos and ask for his healing and blessing. The Feast of Agios Gerasimos celebrated on 16 August, is a major religious celebration and attracts large crowds. Inside you will find a crypt in which you can see the relics of Gerasimos. There is also a small museum where you can see religious artefacts and relics about Saint Gerasimos.

At Agios Gerasimos Monastery you will find traditional Byzantine architecture with whitewashed buildings, red tiled roofs and decorative frescoes on the walls. As you enter the church, you are surrounded by the soft glow of ubiquitous gold and the scent of incense. The interior is decorated with intricate iconography, including frescoes depicting scenes from the life of a saint and biblical stories. The altar is adorned in gold with religious artifacts and serves as a focal point for prayer and worship.

Main altar.

In addition to the church and chapels, you can also spend some time in the courtyard or in the gardens, where you can take a stroll amidst lush greenery and fragrant flowers. Stone paths lead to secluded corners and shady alcoves that provide an opportunity for solitude and connection with nature.

The visit won't take more than an hour and you can combine it with a visit to Melissani cave or to one of the beaches in the south of the island.