On the island of Rhodes, the Moni Thari monastery stands as a venerated spiritual site dedicated to Archangel Michael. Constructed between the 9th and 13th centuries, this medieval structure replaced an early Christian royal church. Today, it serves as a sanctuary for monks.
Nearly a millennium ago, the site of the current monastery was believed to be a temple dedicated to Apollo. By the 5th century, this pagan site had been transformed into a Christian church which, after centuries, evolved into the existing Moni Thari monastery.
Once upon a time, a princess terminally ill from Constantinople traveled to the island of Rhodes. Her father hoped the local environment would soothe her. During one night, she dreamt of Archangel Michael who uttered words of healing, though accounts vary on his exact phrase. Miraculously, the spring water and the island’s natural beauty cured the princess.
In gratitude to the Archangel, a young woman decided to construct a sacred monastery in his honor. She cast a ring to determine its boundaries, but its location became a matter of debate, leading to the belief that the monastery’s name, Tari, is derived from the word for «bravery,» reflecting the valor of those who sought the ring. An alternative theory suggests that «Tari» stems from the word for «stone», supported by the presence of two megalithic monuments on the monastery’s northwest side.
Scholars disagree on the establishment era of the Moni Thari monastery. Some place its origin between the 9th and 10th centuries, while others suggest the 12th to 13th centuries. However, it’s widely accepted that significant transformations occurred during these times. A notable architectural addition was a dome-crowned free cross, an inscribed short east wing, and an elongated west wing. Today, only the katholikon remains, esteemed as Rhodes' finest Byzantine relic. Nearby, several chapels, including those dedicated to Saints Eleftherios, John the Baptist, and Nectarios, can be found.
The sacred site on the island was magnificent until 1916. Following the passing of Abbot Ignatius, it fell into disrepair, losing its grandeur over time. In 1989, Archimandrite Amphilochios Tsukos took over leadership, initiating restoration. Since then, infrastructure improvements have been made, including a guesthouse, dining hall, kitchen, and a still-operating TV station. A community center was also established, featuring the St. Eleftherios Church to the southwest.
The monastery is renowned for its ancient frescoes from the 12th to the 18th centuries. The earliest ones, once adorning the royal church’s walls, have been discovered here. Remarkable full-size frescoes of two Hierarchs, St. Eleutherios and Gregory of Agrigento, stand out. In 1971, these artworks were enclosed within walls and are currently preserved in the Byzantine collection of the Palace of the Grand Masters in Rhodes.
The sanctuary to dome fresco, dating back to the early 1200s, displays the Almighty surrounded by worshipping angels, facing the Throne. Portrayals of the Holy Shell and the Last Supper adorn the south and north walls, respectively. Adjacent on the arch, three of Christ’s miracles unfold to the east: the blessing of the newborn, the healing at Bethesda, and the cleansing of ten lepers, alongside interpretations of the Samaritan woman and the Ascension. Near the altar and dome, the third tier of imagery reveals connections with Byzantine core culture and even the Nicaean Empire of Asia Minor. This exhibition holds significant importance, recognized not just in Rhodes but across the island regions of the sea.
In the mid-1960s, a fresco featuring Archangel Michael was uncovered in the temple. Remarkably, some monastery walls display four layers of paintings. The earliest dates back to the 12th century, showcasing a band of prophets and a horse’s head. Beyond these frescoes, the monastery houses various significant items. Its courtyard is adorned with consecration crosses, incense burners, seats, and wings. Sacred textiles, liturgical texts, and a silver-coated Gospel also enrich its collection. However, the most treasured artifact is a metal figurine of a miraculously healed princess who founded the monastery.
The Moni Thari Monastery is a modest-sized sanctuary that’s easy to navigate. If you find yourself puzzled, the resident monks will gladly offer a tour. Located 64 km from the city of Rhodes, near the village of Laerma in the island’s core, it’s an area not serviced by public buses. Personal vehicle is the primary means to reach this serene spot. Follow the smoothly winding road and keep an eye out for signs pointing the way.
