Monastery of Karakala: The Fortress-Monastery of Arachnaio
Near the village of Agios Adrianos, at the foot of Mount Arachnaio, stands the Holy Monastery of Saint Demetrios Karakala — a monastery with fortress-like architecture, built to defend itself if needed. And it needed to, more than once.
Where the Name Comes From
The monastery was formerly called "Xirokasteli" — "kasteli" being a Frankish word for castle, since a Frankish tower once stood nearby. The Ottomans kept a similar name ("Karakule"), gradually corrupted by locals into "Karakala." An unsupported theory links the name to the Karakalou Monastery on Mount Athos.
Role in the 1821 Revolution
The monastery's hieromonk, Dionysios Bevardos, took part in the region's battles and the siege of Nafplio; the abbot at the time, Symeon, lost his life during that same siege. Fighters who survived the Battle of Peta later took refuge at the monastery, forming the nucleus of a regular army.
The Fire and Rebuilding
Around 1800, much of the monastery was destroyed by fire. According to local tradition, salvaged materials were used to build an Ottoman mosque in Nafplio — the building known today as the Vouleftiko.
The catholicon was rebuilt in 1871, with Trebizond and Frankish architectural elements, frescoed by Ch. Voulgaris, with a wood-carved iconostasis and 18th-19th century icons.
1943: Destruction by the Germans
The monastery's darkest moment came in 1943. German forces accused it of collaborating with resistance fighters, burning and blowing up nine cells, taking everything with them. The abbot was tortured during these dark hours of the Occupation.
More Recent History
In 1928, its property was expropriated. It merged with other monasteries in 1934 and 1936. In 1963, it became a women's monastery, marking a new flourishing period that continues today.
What You'll See Today
The monastery is known for the beautiful handmade needlework made by the nuns, displayed for sale on site. Every October 25, thousands of faithful from across the Peloponnese and Crete flock there for the feast of Saint Demetrios.
Practical Information
Location: Near Agios Adrianos, foot of Mount Arachnaio
Admission: Free
Hours: Respect the nuns' service hours
Practical tip: Expect a large festival on October 25.
See Also
- Vouleftiko
- Agia Moni
FAQ
What happened at Karakala in 1943?
German forces accused it of collaborating with resistance fighters, burning and blowing up nine cells.
Is it still active?
Yes, a flourishing women's monastery since 1963.
