Source: Orthodox Christianity
The Sacred Community of Mount Athos has announced new measures regarding pilgrims’ access, which will come into effect from January 1, 2025.
The decision was made due to the increasing number of visitors, as well as to avoid disturbing the monastic life and prayer schedule, reports the Basilica News Agency.
According to the new rules, the maximum number of pilgrims that can be accommodated in the monasteries and monastic settlements of the Holy Mountain will be strictly limited as follows:
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For cenobitic holy sketes: maximum 200 pilgrims per month
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For kyriakon (central churches) of other sketes: maximum 50 pilgrims per month
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For holy cells and huts: maximum 20 pilgrims per month
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Invitations must be sent to the Pilgrims’ Office no later than 12:00 on the day before arrival
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Groups larger than 5 pilgrims are prohibited unless they are students, novices, or military personnel
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Pilgrims’ access will be permitted exclusively based on invitations. Moving and requesting accommodation at other cells or monasteries without an official invitation from them is strictly prohibited
Additionally, during major feast periods, temporary flexibility will be allowed, but only with approval from the Mt. Athos Pilgrimage Office.
To prevent overcrowding, all pilgrims must request and receive approval from the Pilgrimage Office at least one day before arrival, by 12:00.
The Sacred Community is the supreme administrative, legislative, executive, and judicial body of Mt. Athos, composed of 20 delegates from the 20 ruling monasteries.