Also known as the “raven’s nest”, Varnakova is one of the five oldest byzantine monasteries in Greece.
Built 760 meters above sea level, Varnakova is hard to spot as it is hidden in the lush forest of chestnut trees, oaks and cedars.
It was founded in 1077 by St. Arsenio the Vernikoviti. The Byzantine Empires Komnini as well as the bishops of Despotate of Epirus Komnini and Palaiologi connected their name to the monastery through a series of dedications.
The monastery was destroyed by Kioutachis in 1826 but Governor Ioannis Kapodistrias rebuilt it in 1831. In 1992 the monastery turned into a sisterhood of nuns. Today, 14 nuns reside at Varnakova.
(Forty minutes from Nafpaktos.
To get there, follow the road to Efpalio and then to Kampos. Monastery visiting hours : 08.30-12.00 and 16.30-19.30. Sundays and holidays 07.30-12.00).