Religious site
Peribleptos Monastery, Mystras
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
The Peribleptos Monastery is a hidden gem within the Mystras archaeological site, built into a natural cave on the hillside. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it was constructed around 1350 and is renowned for its stunning frescoes, which are among the best-preserved examples of late Byzantine art. The interior is dimly lit, with paintings covering every surface, depicting scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin. The monastery's cave setting creates a cool, intimate atmosphere, and the frescoes' vivid colors and emotional intensity leave a lasting impression.
Don't miss
- Study the fresco cycle of the life of the Virgin Mary, a rare and detailed narrative in Byzantine art.
- Look for the portrait of the founder, Manuel Kantakouzenos, and his wife, depicted in the narthex.
- Notice the architectural integration of the church into the cave, with rock walls forming part of the structure.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Peribleptos Monastery, Mystras
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inMeteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option4.8★ · 82 travelers~5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$44 per personSee dates →
Best full dayAthens: Meteora Monasteries, Caves & Coastal Stopovers with Lunch4.7★ · 1,567 travelers~14 hoursFree cancellationFrom$100 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleAncient Sparta & Mystras Private Day Tour from Athens4.9★ · 55 travelers~10 hoursFree cancellationFrom$329 per personSee dates →More attractions in Mystras