Tharri Monastery

Surrounded by the wooded countryside of Laerma, Rhodes, the Holy Monastery of Tharri, dedicated to Archangel Michael, is one of the island’s most important pilgrimage sites, with a history dating back to the Byzantine period.

Also known as the Holy Monastery of Archangel Michael of Tharrinos or Tharrenos, is located in the area of Tharri, about 4 km southwest of Laerma village and 64 km from Rhodes Town. The origin of its name remains uncertain. It is believed to come either from the ancient Greek word tharros, meaning courage, or from the name of an ancient settlement.

According to local tradition, the monastery was founded by the daughter of a Byzantine emperor. While staying in the area, the princess was miraculously cured of a life-threatening illness, an event attributed to the clean natural surroundings and a nearby spring. In gratitude, she built a church dedicated to Archangel Michael. The spring still flows within the monastery grounds, and its water is regarded as holy.

The Tharri Monastery was originally built around the 8th or 9th century and underwent several periods of reconstruction, particularly during the 12th and 13th centuries. The monastic life has continued here since at least the 13th century, although the monastery experienced a long period of decline after 1916. Its revival began in 1989 under Archimandrite Amphilochios Tsoukos, who later became Metropolitan of New Zealand.

Step inside to admire rare frescoes dating from the 12th to the 18th century and an elaborate gilded iconostasis adorned with Orthodox saints. On the right, you’ll find the revered icon of Archangel Michael, surrounded by votive offerings that reflect its importance to the local community.

A visit also offers an opportunity to explore the monastery’s museum and discover the art of Orthodox painting style (Agiografia). Among the objects preserved over the centuries are ecclesiastical vestments, crosses, censers and chalices. One particularly unusual exhibit is a small metal human-shaped figurine, found hanging from one of the chandeliers. According to tradition, it represents the Byzantine princess who founded the church. Inside the museum a small shop sells ecclesiastical and monastic products made by the monks themselves.

Beyond its religious role, the Holy Monastery of Tharri has long contributed to the social and economic life of the surrounding area, as well as to the island’s spiritual heritage.

Feast Day and Panigyri of the Monastery of Tharri in Laerma

The monastery celebrates two important feast days each year: 8 November, the feast of the Synaxis of the Archangels honouring the Archangel Michael, and 21 May, commemorating Saints Constantine and Helen. Both occasions are marked by two of the largest traditional religious festivals (panigyria) on Rhodes, attracting visitors and worshippers from across the island.