Near Kalarrytes

Holy Monastery of the Virgin of Kipina

Dedication

Dormition of the Virgin

Main tradition: 1212 · alternatively 13th century, by monks from Vyliza

• Built into a sheer rock face
• Reached by a carved path and a movable wooden bridge
• A cave about 240 metres deep
• 17th-century frescoes

A secret school during Ottoman rule, a refuge for villagers and a defensive position.

Narrow access that needs care; ideal for history and photography. Do not approach in wet shoes and avoid rain or ice.

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Near Elliniko

Holy Monastery of the Nativity of the Virgin, Tsouka

Dedication

Nativity of the Virgin

Altitude

760 m

Traditionally founded in 1190 · destroyed 1736 · renovated 1779

• An old monastic centre
• Mother monastery of Kipina since 1931
• Well preserved, with panoramic views

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Between Kalarrytes and Matsouki

Holy Monastery of the Annunciation, Vyliza

Dedication

Annunciation of the Virgin

Altitude

1000 m

• Access: a paved path of about 2 km from Matsouki (moderate difficulty)
• The name may derive from Latin vigilo = "I guard"
• Linked to the founding or spiritual life of Kipina
• An isolated mountain monastery

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Just outside Pramanta

Holy Monastery of Agia Paraskevi, Pramanta

Dedication

Saint Paraskevi

Founded 1876–1878 by the hieromonk Dionysios

• Seat of the chieftain Ioannis Poutetsis, 1908–1912
• A fortified monastery

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Vourgareli

Monastery of Agios Georgios, Vourgareli

Dedication

Saint George

Founded 1690 · renovated 1714

• A centre of charity under Ottoman rule
• A place where the 1821 Revolution was prepared
• Nicknamed "the Agia Lavra of Epirus"

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Between Plaka Bridge and Raftanaioi

Monastery of the Virgin Mouchoustiotissa / Plaka Monastery

Dedication

The Virgin

Estimated period: second half of the 17th century

• Less well known but historically important

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About 3 km south of Vourgareli

Red Church / Church of the Nativity of the Virgin

Dedication

Nativity of the Virgin

Late 13th century · frescoes of 1295

• A Byzantine church, not an active monastery
• The only surviving Byzantine monument of Tzoumerka
• Important frescoes

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