Damage recorded in Athos monasteries after earthquake

A series of earthquakes that occurred in northern Greece in the first half of June 2025 caused damage to several monasteries on Mount Athos — one of the most significant centers of global Orthodoxy. Seismic tremors damaged architectural structures and religious frescoes in a number of ancient monasteries, including Xenophontos Monastery. This was reported by the Associated Press (AP).

The first earthquake, with a magnitude of 5.3, struck on June 7. In the following days, until June 13, the region continued to experience both underground and surface shocks.

According to the Ministry of Culture of the Hellenic Republic, Xenophontos Monastery suffered the most, with serious cracks appearing in its dome. Frescoes and wall paintings were also damaged in this and several other monasteries.

Greek Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni stated that all damage would be repaired according to professional and ethical standards: “We fully recognize the immense archaeological, historical, and spiritual significance of Mount Athos and guarantee that all destruction will be addressed appropriately.”

It should also be noted that the Holy Community of Mount Athos recently announced new restrictions on the access of foreign pilgrims, aiming to protect the traditional monastic order and contemplative spiritual atmosphere of the Holy Mountain. According to the monks, the uncontrolled influx of visitors threatens to turn Athos from a place of secluded prayer into a tourist attraction. The new measures were scheduled to take effect on June 14, 2025, coinciding with the appointment of a new Holy Superintendent.