Restoration work underway at Xenophontos and Docheiariou Monasteries in Greece

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On June 7, 2025, a 5.3 magnitude earthquake struck the Mount Athos peninsula, following a 4.7 quake in February that had already damaged religious sites.

The epicenter was near the Dochiariou and Xenophontos Monasteries. Greece’s Minister of Culture, Lina Mendoni, confirmed that archaeologists and conservators were deployed immediately to assess the damage.

At Xenophontos, the 10th-century old katholikon with 16th-century frescoes suffered worsened cracks in domes and arches, causing some painted surfaces to detach. Previous damage from the February quake had been stabilized with emergency measures, preventing more serious loss.

A small chandelier also caused minor damage to the 11th-century marble floor. Restoration at Xenophontos includes rescue efforts and structural studies to address long-term vulnerabilities.

Smaller cracks appeared in the chapel of St. Euphemia and new katholikon (1819), which features frescoes by Hieromonk Loukas Xenofontinos. Severe cracking was noted in the unreinforced exonarthex.

Dochiariou Monastery also saw increased damage. The 16th-century katholikon, with frescoes by Tzortzis, had worsening cracks. The 1547 refectory, with 17th-century frescoes, suffered re-opened fissures and detachment of paint layers. Conservation teams are now stabilizing the most fragile spots.

Other sites, including Pantokratoros, Vatopedi, and Simonos Petra, are also being inspected. At Pantokratoros, frescoes in chapels and the katholikon are under review. At Dochiariou, a major restoration project—approved by KAS and funded by the Aigeas Organization—is ongoing, with completion expected by end of 2025. A full assessment of damages is due soon.

Source: https://daysofart.gr/en/news/from-ministry/fully-aware-of-the-archaeological-historical-and-spiritual-importance-of-mount-athos/

Edited August 22, 2025 by FfFfFfFF

[Economy 52,844]

Beautiful

 

The fact that when I lived in Europe i did not appreciate the gorgeous architecture

 

Now here in Canada every street just looks like:

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1 hour ago, Economy said:

Beautiful

 

The fact that when I lived in Europe i did not appreciate the gorgeous architecture

 

Now here in Canada every street just looks like:

I was literally just thinking this lmao. They tore down so much cool architecture in the States...

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On 8/23/2025 at 4:26 PM, Economy said:

Beautiful

 

The fact that when I lived in Europe i did not appreciate the gorgeous architecture

 

Now here in Canada every street just looks like:

As an European, I think I'd have a breakdown living in a place like this. I find that old buldings with patina, countryside, greenery have so much personality and are soothing to the soul. If I wanted to leak my location I would have posted a 15th century building near to where I live.. firmly believe nothing modern can ever beat its beauty and charm.