Samos
Monastery of Agia Zoni
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The Holy Monastery of Agia Zoni (the Holy Girdle), built in 1695, lies in the lush Vlamari valley, just 2 km from Samos Town. The monastery church is a domed basilica, and its interior was adorned with 17th‑century frescoes of great artistic value, which, however, have largely been destroyed over time. Holding a prominent place in the church is the large silver‑plated icon of the Holy Girdle, created in 1819, as well as the exquisitely carved wooden iconostasis, the work of Abbot Gabriel in 1801. The monastery has a noteworthy library with patriarchal documents and precious ecclesiastical vessels. It celebrates on 31 August and is open to visitors, serving as a distinctive pilgrimage and cultural destination on Samos.