Faneromeni Monastery (Lefkada)
Near Frini, 3 km west of Lefkada town (31 km / about 30 minutes from Preveza)
The oldest and largest monastery of Lefkada, on the hill 3 km west of the town, dedicated to the island's patron, the Virgin Mary. 30 minutes from Preveza.
About Faneromeni Monastery (Lefkada)
The Holy Monastery of Faneromeni stands 3 km west of Lefkada town, near the village of Frini, about 31 km (30 minutes) from Preveza. For centuries it has been the religious centre of the island, as its oldest and largest monastery. It is dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, the patron saint of Lefkada, and is home to an abbot and four monks.
In antiquity a marble shrine of Artemis stood here. Tradition says that in AD 63 the Apostle Paul sent three helpers from Nicopolis, near Preveza, to preach on the island, and that they built its first church on this spot. In 332 the bishop of Lefkada and two monks settled here and built the first cells. The main church took its present form in 1734, under the Venetians; it burned down in 1886 and was rebuilt, with a carved screen of 1887.
The library holds more than 2,000 titles, among them a handwritten Gospel of the 15th century. The guest house can host up to 50 pilgrims for one night. The big feast is on the Monday of the Holy Spirit, when pilgrims come from all over Lefkada and the area around.
Good to know
- Dress modestly: it is a working monastery.
- Combine it with Lefkada town and the Castle of Santa Maura.
Help keep it unspoiled: take your rubbish with you, never light fires outdoors in summer, and respect wildlife and local life. How to travel responsibly
Photos
Frequently asked questions
How far is the Faneromeni Monastery from Preveza?
About 31 km by road, roughly 30 minutes from Preveza town centre, through Lefkada town.
When is the feast of the Faneromeni Monastery?
On the Monday of the Holy Spirit, a moveable feast, when pilgrims come from all over Lefkada.
Can you stay at the Faneromeni Monastery?
The guest house can host up to 50 pilgrims for one night.
Last updated 20 October 2026. Information checked against el.wikipedia.org. Spotted something out of date? Use “Suggest a place” in the footer.
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