The Holy Community of Mount Athos has announced new measures regarding the access of pilgrims, effective from January 1, 2025. The decision was made in response to the growing number of visitors to avoid disrupting monastic life and the prayer schedule.
Under the new regulations, the maximum number of pilgrims allowed in the monasteries and monastic settlements of Mount Athos will be limited as follows:
For Coenobitic Sketes – a maximum of 200 pilgrims per month;
For the Central Churches (Kyriakon) of other Sketes – a maximum of 50 pilgrims per month;
For Cells – a maximum of 20 pilgrims per month.
Invitations must be submitted to the Pilgrims’ Office by 12:00 PM the day before arrival. Groups larger than 5 pilgrims are not allowed unless they are students, pupils, novices, or military personnel.
Pilgrim access will only be granted with invitations. Moving or requesting accommodation at other Cells or Monasteries without an official invitation is strictly prohibited.
Temporary flexibility during major holidays will be allowed only with approval from the Mount Athos Pilgrimage Office.
To avoid overcrowding, all pilgrims must request and receive approval from the Pilgrimage Office at least one day before arrival, by 12:00 PM.
The Holy Community serves as the supreme administrative, legislative, executive, and judicial body of Mount Athos, consisting of 20 delegates from the 20 Athonite monasteries.
Photo: Iulian Lorin Juravle / Source: Basilica.ro