THE MONASTERY OF PANAGIA SPILIANI

(the cave of Virgin Mary) - cave means spileo, and Panagia is Virgin Mary .



The Monastery of the Panagia Spiliani is situated on the hill behind Pythagorio. The view from the small open area is impressive as we gaze caresses the Aegean all the way to the Turkish shores and from Pythagorio with the Kastro of Logothetis (the castle) up to Ireon.



The small twin churches are dedicated to the Panagia (Virgin Mary) and Saint George- (Agios Georgios).



Entering the cave we see in the depths of the cave a very old chapel-shrine. The Church is built at a depth of 94 steps from the cave's entrance. Three hand-made tanks collect the water that slowly drips from cracks in the rocks. The darkness together with the sound of water dripping –which is the only sound heard inside this tranquil and devout place – creates an especially emotional feeling for the visitor .



A legend tells us how the icon broke:

Many years ago some strangers came here out of devoutness by caique to secretly take the sacred icon back to their land, but the Virgin Mary did not want to leave Samos. So as they took the icon out of the caique it fell into the sea, breaking into five pieces. But the icon managed to return back to Samos where the Samians found it on the beach and returned it to the chapel.



It is also thought that the cave was a place of refuge for Pythagoras.




Comments

A spot that should not be missed by visitors who come to the island.

It is impressive and the view panoramic.