Taxiarches Monastery in Aigio, Peloponnese

Aigio Churches & Monasteries - Located approximately 15km from Aigio, on the foothills of Mount Klokos, lies the historical and sacred Taxiarches Monastery in Aigio, Peloponnese. This monastery played a significant role in the life of Osios Leontios, an ascetic who founded the first monastery in the area in the late 14th and early 15th centuries. The monastery was established with the support of Thomas and Demetrios Palaiologos, despots of Mystra, and was built on the location of the church of Archangel Michael, known then as "Palaiomonastiro."

Despite being destroyed by the Turks twice, in 1500 and 1620, the monastery was renovated after the first destruction and then later transferred to its present location. It was once again destroyed by the Turci-Albanians in 1772, but 10 years later, it was reconstructed by the few surviving monks. During the revolution of 1821, Taxiarches Monastery played an active role in the fight for independence, providing funds, and serving as a hospital, food, and ammunition storage facility.

After the liberation, the monastery flourished, becoming an intellectual hub with the establishment of a school and library. Today, Taxiarches Monastery in Aigio, Peloponnese, is a renowned men’s monastery. Visitors can sample the famous "rodozachari," a special sweet preserve made from fragrant rose petals.