Skete of St. Demetrius (Lakkoskiti) under the Agiou Pavlou monastery on Mount Athos
Lakkoskiti, formally known as the Skete of St. Demetrios tou Lakkou (under the Agiou Pavlou monastery), is nestled in the northern foothills of Mount Athos, Greece. This idiorrhythmic skete, comprising about 15 humble huts, is immersed in a chestnut forest in the Morfonou River valley. Inhabited by Romanian monks, Lakkoskiti symbolizes a quiet dedication to Orthodox monastic life, reflecting its deep roots in spiritual solitude and contemplation.
A Dive into History
Lakkoskiti's history, shrouded in mystery, traces its origins back to the 10th century, associated with the now-abandoned Amalfinon (Morfonou) Monastery. The skete saw various inhabitants over centuries, including Slavs in 1606 and Moldavians by 1754. In 1760, Moldavian monk Daniel from Neamț Monastery reorganized it into a skete. Post-Greek Revolution, the influx of monks from Moldavia and Wallachia waned, leading to a period of decline. In the mid-1990s, rejuvenation efforts led to rebuilding and an increase in the monastic population, continuing the legacy of this secluded spiritual haven.
Spiritual Heartbeat
The Skete of St. Demetrius (Lakkoskiti) is a beacon of Romanian Orthodox spirituality on Mount Athos. Known for its serene setting amidst a chestnut forest, it provides a space for deep spiritual contemplation and connection to the traditions of Romanian Orthodoxy. The skete's dedication to the Orthodox faith is evident in its preservation of rituals and sacred practices, making it a significant spiritual site for pilgrims seeking a profound religious experience.
Peeking into Monastic Life
The daily life in Lakkoskiti is characterized by a blend of prayer, work, and communal living, echoing the idiorrhythmic monastic tradition. Monks engage in various activities, including spiritual study, maintaining the skete, and hosting pilgrims, all while adhering to the principles of Orthodox monasticism. This life of asceticism and devotion within the tranquil natural surroundings of Mount Athos allows the monks to cultivate a deep sense of spirituality and connection to their faith.
Reservation Information for Stays at Lakkoskiti
Lakkoskiti, nestled within the sacred realms of Mount Athos and upholding the Romanian Orthodox traditions, operates under the guidance of the Monastery of St. Paul.
How to Make a Reservation:
For those wishing to delve into the profound spirituality of Lakkoskiti and experience its unique Romanian liturgical ambiance, please reach out to the Holy Kalives (Huts) directly using the phones or emails provided:
Holy Kalives:
Annunciation (Hierom. Stephen): (+30) 23770 23636, lakos.8@gmail.comEntrance (Monk Pimen): (+30) 6946572266, intrareainbiserica@gmail.com
St. Antony (Monk Antony): (+30) 23770 23401
We recommend reaching out during regular hours (Greek time zone) for inquiries on availability, accommodation details, and other relevant specifics of your visit.
Important Considerations:
Visitors to Lakkoskiti are invited to partake and immerse in the rich Romanian Orthodox practices and traditions, embracing the rhythms of monastic life and the spiritual offerings of the community.
Practical Information for Pilgrims and Visitors
Postal Address: ΣΚΗΤΗ ΛΑΚΚΟΥ ΜΟΝΗΣ ΑΓΙΟΥ ΠΑΥΛΟΥ, 63087, ΔΑΦΝΗ ΑΓΙΟΥ ΟΡΟΥΣ, ΝΟΜΟΣ ΧΑΛΚΙΔΙΚΗΣTel: (+30) 23770 23636
Email: lakos.8@gmail.com