St. George's islet
(Άη Γιώργης) of the Mountain
The Monastery of St. George, as it stands today, was built on the site of an early Christian basilica, traces of which are still preserved. Its mosaic floor and several column capitals remain, now incorporated into the interior structure of the church.
Perched high on the hill above the settlement of Kastellorizo, the Monastery of St. George of the Mountain dominates the landscape. The ascent of its 315 steps is an experience in itself—almost ritualistic—gradually revealing one of the island’s most breathtaking panoramic views, generously rewarding every visitor.
The monastery has a fortress-like character, enclosed within a square defensive wall. Inside, the katholikon (main church), monastic cells, and auxiliary buildings are arranged around a courtyard paved with traditional pebble mosaics.
The katholikon is a single-aisled, cross-vaulted basilica with ribbed vaults, built upon the foundations of the early Christian basilica. The impressive mosaic floor and ancient capitals from the earlier structure are still visible, integrated into the church’s interior masonry.
On the western side lies the underground crypt of St. Charalambos, accessible via a short staircase—a quiet, atmospheric space imbued with a sense of devotion and serenity. According to the dedicatory inscription above the entrance, the monastery was renovated in 1759 by Saint Anthimos of Kefalonia. The carved wooden iconostasis, adorned with 18th-century icons, adds another layer of artistic and historical significance. A visit to the Monastery of St. George of the Mountain is a unique experience that blends spirituality, architecture, and natural beauty—an unforgettable moment of stillness and awe.