Number DOI: http://doi.org/10.33209/2519-4348-2707-9627-2022-10-124

VB. – № 10, 2022. – P. 243-254

Summary

Greece is a country with a rich religious history. Monasteries are found everywhere around Greece and some have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site; a great example is Mount Athos, standing as a beacon of the Christian Orthodox religion. Nonetheless, monasteries are found at every corner of Greek land; perched on a hillside or on top of a boulder, they hold awe-inspiring ground with striking views. With 97% of the country comprised of Greek Orthodox members, it’s no wonder there’s an abundance of historic monasteries and churches with generations of monks, nuns, and priests who have preserved the Greek language, culture, and religion. Greek Orthodox monasteries stretch across the countryside in some of the most beautiful locations imaginable—some balanced atop steep rocks with others burrowed in lush, green valleys and olive groves. Many of these monasteries were built centuries ago by hermits and monks in an effort to escape religious persecution. During Greece’s most troubling times, monasteries offered safety and comfort to the people of Greece.The contribution of the Holy Monasteries over time to the course of the Greek nation has been enormous. The presence and contribution of Monasticism had a profound impact not only on the historical continuity of Hellenism, but also on the political and economic scene of the Balkans and the East, as the events that took place (19th century) in that period and those that followed, differentiated the world map and marked the beginning of the end of a long period of Ottoman conquest in European territories. The main reference, however, is to the contribution and participation of the Holy Monasteries in the Greek Revolution of 1821 and, in particular, the possibilities that emerged in the course and development of the Revolution in terms of the contribution of the monasteries to the conduct of the war. The holy monasteries became centers of protection and care for the combatants and their families. They provided the “valuables”, silver and gold they had for the Struggle. The contribution of the Holy Monasteries, the monks, and every single individual or group who directly or indirectly contributed in any way to the Struggle.

Key words: Greek Revolution, Holy Monasteries, Monks, Church, Friendly Society, collection of ammunition, care of wounded and civilians, The holy monstary «Mega Spilaio»