The Monastery of the Holy Cross is located in the village of Damatria on the north side of the island. In classical times (5th-4th century BC), the Municipality of Damatria is mentioned, which belonged to the Kingdom of Ialysia. In the place where the Monastery was built, there was a large Sanctuary of the goddess Demeter with temples, altars and underground arcades for the mysteries located at the back of the current Monastery. In 1866 the monastery was built on the ruins of the Sanctuary of Demeter. Architectural elements, marble bases of columns, capitals... etc., remains of the ancient temple of the goddess can be seen in the area. Imposing is the marble entrance to the monastery's enclosure as well as the church of the Holy Cross which has supports reminiscent of ancient Greek columns.
Editor: Niki Kalopaidis