Religious tourism
Monastery of Taxiarchis Michail (Mantamados)
Panagia of Agiasos
The church of the Dormition of the Mother of God, better known as ‘Panagia of Agiasos’, is one of most visited churches of the island thanks to the miraculous icon of Virgin Mary. However, being known mostly as a pilgrimage place does not do justice to its great historical value, as this is a church with Byzantine foundation and a history that starts from the period of iconoclasm. The erection of the present church started in 1815, a three-nave and triune basilica, impressive for its enormous dimensions (32.20 in length and 26.20 in width).
Monastery of Agios Raphail
The Catholic community of Mytilene
In the islands of the Eastern Aegean and in Smyrna, especially from the early 18th century, a significant number of Europeans (Italians, Maltese, French, Spaniards, etc.) settled in the region, occupying various roles, such as merchants, sailors, consuls, and even adventurers. Due to favorable political and economic conditions, they put down roots in the area.
The common bond among them was their shared Catholic faith, centered around their numerous churches. The issue of maintaining these Europeans in their Catholic doctrine was always a primary concern for the Catholic Church, which is why it established Western monastic orders in Greek-speaking areas where Catholic populations existed.
The relics of Saint Valentine, the patron saint of lovers, are located in the city of Mytilene, on the island of Lesbos. According to tradition, the relics of Saint Valentine were transferred to Mytilene from Italy in the 15th century, specifically in 1494, when they arrived from Rome via Constantinople. The relics of the Saint are kept in the Church of Saint Valentine, located in the Kato Kioski area of Mytilene.
The church is dedicated to Saint Valentine and is considered an important pilgrimage site for the faithful, particularly for those seeking blessings for love and relationships.
