Panagia Amartos

Panagia Amartos Monastery, nestled in the peaceful countryside just outside the traditional village of Kritinia, around 58 km from Rhodes Town, is a must-visit religious landmark surrounded by exceptional natural beauty.

Although its exact date of construction remains unknown, local tradition and historical documents dating from the era of the Knights of Rhodes suggest that a place of worship existed here as early as AD 502, making it one of the island’s oldest sacred sites.

The picturesque courtyard offers a welcome place to pause beneath towering cypress trees and a centuries-old olive tree, where visitors can enjoy the peace and serenity of the surrounding landscape before entering the monastery.

The simple interior reflects centuries of devotion. Modern frescoes decorate the walls following several restoration projects, while an elegant carved wooden iconostasis complements the sacred space. The chapel’s greatest treasure is its revered miracle-working icon of the Virgin Mary, displayed in a specially designed wall shrine.

According to locals, the icon was miraculously discovered in a nearby cave, a place still regarded as sacred and known locally as Agiopetra (Holy Rock). The icon is traditionally adorned with the embroidered headscarf worn as part of the traditional costumes of Kritinia and Embonas, reflecting the area’s rich cultural heritage.

Panagia Amartos Monastery is easily reached by car by taking the road through Kritinia towards Embonas, following the signposted turn to Amartos. The fully paved route passes through beautiful countryside, making the journey as rewarding as the destination itself.

Feast Day and Panigyri of Panagia Amartos in Kritinia

Also known as Panagia Amarteni, the monastery celebrates two annual feast days, on Easter Tuesday and on 8 September, honoring the Nativity of the Theotokos. In the morning of Easter Tuesday, a traditional festival takes place, while in the evening of 7 September, a lively Panigyri is held, offering visitors an authentic opportunity to experience local customs, music, and village hospitality.