The Old Monastery of Panagia Kato Xenia is located 16 km from the town of Almyros. The name "Xenia" comes from the ancient term "Xenia" and refers to hospitality. It is also said that there was an ancient temple of Xenios Dios in the area who gave his name to the Monastery. Its foundation dates back to the 13th century, according to the built-in reliefs found in the alcove of the temple. It was the Metochi of the Upper Monastery of Xenia, experienced great prosperity and replaced the decaying Upper Monastery receiving the name "Lower Monastery of Xenia". Renovations of the Monastery in the 17th (1697) and 20th centuries (1908, 1920 and 1930) are mentioned. Until 1970 it functioned as a men's monastery and then it was converted into a women's monastery. After the earthquakes of 1980 it was abandoned, while in 1990 the New Monastery of Panagia Kato Xenia was built near the Old Monastery. The building complex includes various ruined buildings in a square layout built between 1908-1928, two-story buildings with arches and the church of Agios Nikolaos (1671). The temple, which has frescoes, has been restored and can be visited. On Good Friday, on the hill near the monastery where there are 3 crosses, there is a representation of the Crucifixion and Deposition of the Lord. The Monastery, which celebrates on August 23, hosts 3 nuns.
Editor: Niki Kalopaidis