Monastery of St. George Koudonas

Situated on the southernmost hill of the island, the Monastery of St. George Koudonas can be reached via road from the central square of the island. According to rumors, the monastery was established in 963 during the reign of Nicephorus II (963-9). The monastery was first mentioned in history in a list compiled by Manuel I Comnenus in 1158. The name "Koudonas" means "bells" in Greek, and it is said to originate from a local legend: one day, while tending his flock on the hill, a shepherd heard bells ringing from deep underground. Upon investigation, he discovered a painting of St. George, which he and other locals later used to establish the monastery on the site. The present-day church was constructed at this location, and during the summer months, it attracts a large number of visitors.