Thessaly - Doussikou Monastery Megáles Pilés

Northwest of the Portaikos River, on the crossroads of Porta Panagia, lies the Megáles Pilés of Doussikou monastery, built in a forest of oak trees, six km northwest of the villages. Construction of the monastery began by St Vissarion in 1522. It is encircled by a wall 10 m high. The three-storied structure comprises 366 cells symbolizing the days of the year. Its Refectory and collection of manuscripts and relics in the Library attest to the wealth enjoyed by the monastery in the past. At the center of the complex is the Byzantine Church of the Transfiguration, with frescoes done in 1577 by Theophanes. Its wood carved temple was done in 1767 and was given a gold-leaf finish by Metsovon artisans in 1813. One should also visit the crypt on the west side of the church and the adjoining three small chapels.