Epano Chrepas monastery

The monasteries of Mt Menalon

Epano Chrepas monastery

The Epano Chrepa monastery is built in a prominent position above Tripoli, near the small settlement of Perithori.

It is one of the most popular pilgrimages in Arcadia, thanks to the role it has played in the recent history of the region and because of its excellent location and the view it offers.

Mt Menalon topoguide
The monasteries of Mt Menalon
Epano Chrepas monastery

The name of the monastery refers to the Slavic toponym of the top (khrepa = pile).

The κatholicon is dedicated to Panagia Epanochrepitissa. It is a single-aisled basilica, which has undergone many reforms. Today it is arched inside, while outside it is pitched, originally covered with tiles. Part of the frescoes is old, but damaged.

Although it is not documented by architectural and hagiographic evidence or historical data, it is believed that the monastery was built in the 12th century. During the period for which there are documents and reports, it is known that the monastery was run under a male community.

The monastery of Epano Chrepas participated in the economic life of its rich region and was particularly prosperous. At the same time, due to its position, it followed the upheavals of the capital city of Arcadia, Tripoli.

From 1935 on, the monastery was converted into a nunnery and today it has a lot of visitors. It celebrates the orhtodox Day of Cross (September 14) and the Day of the Dormition of Virgin Mary (August 15).

Text : T. Adamakopoulos

topoguide Greece

A guide to Mt Menalon

topoguide Greece
The most comprehensive companion to the nature, the history, the mmonuments and the trails of Mt Menalon is the digital guide Mt Menalon topoguide.

Mt Menalon topoguide is available for Android devices as one of the dozens of available region of Greece via the topoguide Greece application. Mt Menalon is a member of the Peloponnese group. Get the Mt Menalon guide as an in-app purchase through the app.

Mt Menalon topoguide is also available for iOS (iPhone & iPad) devices via the application Topoguide Greece. Get the Mt Menalon guide as an in-app purchase through the app, found in the Peloponnese group.

topoguide Greece offers active navigation along the trails, as well as a comprehensive guide to the geography, the nature and the culture of the area.