Many of the churches of Zakynthos were erected during the medieval period and works by important hagiographers are preserved. A reference point for the island is Saint Dionysios, who is the patron saint of the island and the locals commemorate his memory twice a year in a particularly solemn atmosphere. In the church of Agios Dionysios, among other important icons and artefacts, the holy relic of the saint is kept in a silver urn. This alone brings thousands of pilgrims to the island.
Church of Agios Dionysios is a landmark at the main harbour: Particularly important works of art of the Church are the silver-sculptedLarnaca of the Holy Relic, the work of George Diamantis Bafas (1829), the silver plated ‘despotic’ icons by the same artist (1829), the famous painting of the Litany of Saint Dionysios by priest Nicholas Koutouzis (1766), the wood-carved and gilded “chamber” of the Saint and many other works of art kept in the Monastery of strofadon Museum, next door.
The Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa was founded in the mid-15th century and is one of the oldest on the island. Only the ruins of the monastery remain, as well as the church of Panagia located in the center of the monastery. The church was built on top of an ancient temple of the goddess Artemis, and parts of the temple were used in the construction of the church, such as the entrance and floor. Inside, the walls are adorned with frescoes, and the view from the site is breathtaking, with the villages, vegetation, and sea stretched out before you. The dirt road leading there is steep and relatively difficult to navigate.
Panagia Anafonitria is located in the pine-covered region of Plemonari and attracts thousands of pilgrims each year. It was likely founded in the 15th century. The main attraction for visitors is the stunning Byzantine image of the Theotokos Anafonitria. The walls are adorned with frescoes, possibly from the 18th century, and there is also a chapel dedicated to Saint Charalambos. The view from the monastery is breathtaking, with the green valley and the sea stretched out before you. The dirt road leading there is steep and relatively difficult to navigate.
Read also:
First time in Zakynthos: 5 experiences worth having
Discover Zakynthos: The beautiful, green island of the Ionian Sea
