Monastery & Cave of Agios Gerasimos

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The Monastery of Agios (St.) Gerasimos is the most holy Church of the island. It is build located in the village Omala, at the top of the green valley with 40 wells, near the villages Fragata and Balsamata.

Agios Gerasimos is the patron saint of Kefalonia, and its relic is kept in the monastery, in a silver urn.

Agios Gerasimos was a monk from Trikala of Corinth and founded the monastery in the 16th century, renovating an older one, which was dedicated to the Virgin Mary. He died in 1597 and sanctified in 1622. He became famous for his miraculous abilities on people suffering from mental illness. The monastery is impressive, with a chapel and a new church with very rich decoration.

Below the Monastery (in early years the Monastery was in front) is a cave, built by Agios Gerasimos, where he held his daily prayers. Pilgrims from all over Greece come to pray and honor the saint here.

The people of Kefalonia honor the death of Saint Gerasimos the monastery on the 16th August and the restitution of his holy relic on October 20th. On those days, a procession of the saint is taking place. The coffin is moved under the shadow of a plane tree, which was planted by Agios Gerasimos himself. The ceremony is followed by a big festival with music, dancing, food and wine.

Opening hours:
Monday – Sunday, 7am – 13pm and 3pm – 9pm

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