ROUSSANOU MONASTERY

It is certainly one of the most surprising monasteries, especially because of the footbridge suspended in the void that allows access to it. This monastery, which also houses a nuns' convent, has an uncertain history. It is not known whether it was really founded in 1388, and the origin of its name remains unknown. The first inhabitant could have been called Roussanos and could have been from the village of Roussana. In 1545, brothers Joasaph and Maxime restored the monastery, then in ruins, and established a way of community life. Left to decay, looted many times, Roussanou was maintained and renovated after the war by a nun who devoted the last years of her life to its rehabilitation. This old three-storey building now functions as a nuns' convent. Some precious objects and manuscripts have been saved; they are preserved in the Great Meteor. The second floor is occupied by the Church of the Transfiguration. For many years it housed the head of Saint Barbara, making it a place of pilgrimage and devotion. From this comes the other name of the monastery: Aghia Barbara. The religious paintings date from 1560 and are the work of the Cretan school. In the first room as you enter, the narthex, you will see magnificent frescoes, such as the martyrs of the saints, represented very crudely. On the lintel above the door leading to the nave, we can see the Preparation of the Throne depicting a crowd of men and angels under the colours of a river of fire. The three angels above preside over the scene; one holds the documents relating to the actions of the soul that is being judged, the other holds the balance of justice and the last hunts Satan, who tries to steal the soul in the process of judgment. Entering the second room, the nave, one can see on the right side very beautiful mural paintings dedicated to Saint Barbara and, below, to the Resurrection and Transfiguration of Christ. Finally, do not miss the scene of Dormition of the Mother of God, with its many faces, surrounded by the archangels Michael and Gabriel. Unfortunately, the dome is very damaged.

Finally, there is also a small store selling local products. Here, when you leave, you can buy small souvenirs that are a little different, such as painted pebbles and the delicious honey of the monastery. Enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the monasteries of Vaarlam and Saint-Nikolaos. On leaving, take the upward track to enjoy a stunning view of the entire site.