Hozoviotissa Monastery was built in 1017 C.E. as a feat of sheer willpower. It’s hard to fathom how the eight-story building was carved from the cliff face, 984 feet above the sea. It’s a spectacular hike, up hundreds of steps to an entrance so low and narrow, you literally have to bow down before God. In the chapel, dazzling silver-plated icons and clouds of incense leave you feeling light-headed, especially as you emerge onto a tiny balcony floating between sky and sea. In the 18th century, 100 monks lived there; now there are only three. Dress modestly and go early to beat the heat and crowds—ideally for the morning liturgy, which starts at 4 a.m., to watch the sunrise from what feels like heaven.

Information on this page, including website, location, and opening hours, is subject to have changed since this page was last published. If you would like to report anything that’s inaccurate, let us know at notification@afar.com.

Nearby highlights
Sign up for our newsletter
Join more than a million of the world’s best travelers. Subscribe to the Daily Wander newsletter.
More From AFAR