Monasticism
Mount Athos (Holy Mountain)
The monastic republic on the Athos peninsula in Greece: the spiritual center of Orthodox monasticism since the 10th century. Twenty ruling monasteries (17 Greek, 1 Russian, 1 Serbian, 1 Bulgarian). Self-governing under Greek sovereignty. No women permitted: dedicated to the Theotokos as her 'Garden.' Home to irreplaceable manuscripts, icons, and relics.
Sources
- Philip Sherrard, Athos: The Holy Mountain (Sherrard was Orthodox)
- The Typikon of Mount Athos (monastic rule) OCA, the services
- Hieromonk Isaac, Elder Paisios of the Holy Mountain (ch. on Athos traditions)