Panagia Ypseni Monastery

Panagia Ypseni Monastery, also known as the holy Monastery of Ypsos, is a significant pilgrimage site in Rhodes island. Situated on the southeast side of the island, it is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. The monastery is located 50 km away from the city of Rhodes and 4 km from the village of Lardos. Originally referred to as the Holy Monastery of the Ypsos (Heights) due to its elevated location, it later came to be known as Panagia Ypseni in the local dialect. The nickname “Gypseni” is also given to it due to the abundance of plaster in the area.

Throughout history, the monastery has served as an important spiritual center, playing a vital role in the social and spiritual life of the island, particularly during the Ottoman era. Although the exact date of its construction is uncertain, archaeological findings suggest that it dates back to the early Christian years. After falling into disrepair over the centuries, the monastery began to flourish again in the 15th-16th century with the presence of Cypriots.

In the 19th century, a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary was revealed to Saint Meletios, leading to the reconstruction of the temple, which was completed in 1855. In 1992, almost two centuries after its establishment, the monastery was converted from a male monastery to a female one, following the suggestion of Elder Mr. Amfilochios Tsoukos. The monastery houses rare and valuable relics, including the oldest and most precious miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary from the 15th century. Additionally, it preserves rare icons from 1604 and 1844 to 1869, as well as the holy relics of Saint Meletius and numerous other saints.

Panagia Ypseni celebrates its feast day on August 23rd and February 12th, attracting crowds of pilgrims each year.