Kipinas Monastery, one of the most impressive monasteries in Epirus, perches in the hollow of a sheer cliff in Tzoumerka, near the village of Kalarrytes. You cant help but wonder how it was built at this spot.
Many monasteries of Greece are perched on precipitous rocks, a human brushstroke amid natures grandeur, inspiring awe and admiration. One of the most impressive lies in Epirus, near Kalarrytes. Built in a recess of a sheer cliff, above the gorge of the Kalarrytikos River, Kipina Monastery in Tzoumerka immediately catches the visitors eye.
The monastery was built in 1212 and is dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. It is said to have been named after the gardens the monks cultivated in the surrounding area. Access to the monastery is via a path carved into the rock and a wooden bridge.
The monastery flourished especially in the 18th century and its monks were distinguished for their social work. During Ottoman rule, according to tradition, a secret school operated in the monastery.
Beyond its setting, the monastery also stands out for its intriguing frescoes dating from the late 17th to early 18th century. The monks cells and the guesthouse offer unique views over the river and the areas wild landscape. A distinctive feature of the monastery is that at the north entrance of the narthex begins the entrance to a cave (not open to visitors), which during Ottoman rule served as a refuge for the inhabitants of the area.
Journey to Kalarrytes
Built on the edge of the steep gorge that leads down to the Kalarrytikos River, at an elevation of 1.200 m., Kalarrytes is one of the most beautiful mountain villages in Greece. It is a protected traditional village, where imposing stone mansions, abundant waters and traditional cobbled lanes take center stage. The villagers will tell you stories of the first silversmiths and goldsmiths born here - among them Sotirios Voulgaris, who founded the famous house of Bvlgari. After visiting the Museum of Christos Golfinopoulos and Aikaterini Mousafiri, as well as the Church of Agios Nikolaos, make a stop at Akanthos, Napoleon Zaglis retro café that will transport you to Greece of the 50s.
Opposite Kalarrytes lies Syrrako, a beautiful village as well, a listed traditional settlement with stone houses roofed with slate slabs, well-made stone-paved alleys and many carved fountains with running water. To go from one village to the other by car you will need to make a long detour (about 18 km.). Alternatively, if you like hiking - and the weather permits - you can walk the one-hour historic trail that crosses the Chrousia Gorge and links the two Vlach villages.
