Greece’s Monks’ Republic known imply as Mount Athos has welcomed a new investment move with the operation of a supermarket, a hotel with spa and restaurant in its capital Karyes.
The new hotel, named “Samaradiko”, was the former cell of Agios Nikolaos, which belongs to the Holy Monastery of Megisti Lavra.
The construction of the new building by SATTO IKE through the company OIKODOMEIN IKE of the brothers Dimitris and Stavros Souanis, began in 2020 and was completed in 2023. It started its operation a few weeks ago. local media typoathes.gr and tilegrafimanews.gr reported.
Despite the initial wave of reactions expressed by some about the integration of modern commercial and tourist infrastructure in a place with deep traditions and religious significance, concerns seem to have subsided over time. Today, people frequently visit these new shops and facilities, proving that tourist and commercial development can be combined with respect for tradition and the unique nature of Mount Athos.
The supermarket, although unprecedented for the area, serves the needs of visitors and residents of Mount Athos by offering a variety of products, including food and other goods that are usually difficult to find in this isolated area.
The hotel, under the name “SAMARADIKO” with an accommodation price of 40 euros per night, offers an affordable accommodation option to visitors of Mount Athos. The price does not include additional services, such as massage, which is positively commented on as offering complete rejuvenation.
The restaurant offering traditional Athonite cuisine is also a very interesting addition for visitors to Mount Athos. The Athonite cuisine, known for its simplicity and rich flavor, offers a unique gastronomic experience, featuring traditional dishes with basic ingredients from the local nature and the monasteries of the area. From coffee and traditional pastries to more complex dishes, the restaurant offers visitors a delicious glimpse into the culture and tradition of Mount Athos.
Ιt is not clear whether women are allowed in the hotel as the Monks’ Republic is known to forbid access to women in its area.
According to orthodoxtimes.com, the hotel’s booking policy restricts stays to men, specifically workers on Mount Athos, monks, or pilgrims, in accordance with the monastic traditions of the area, orthodox.
This is not the first instance of business ventures on Mount Athos, often referred to as the “Orchard of the Virgin Mary.” The community has previously seen the opening of a supermarket and a restaurant serving traditional Athonite dishes.
