Church of AgiosNikolaos in Perivoli
Within the Pindos National Park, in the untouched landscape of Valia Calda, stands the Monastery of Agios Nikolaos in Perivoli, of which only the katholikon (main church) survives today. Built in 1803, as confirmed by the carved stone cross on its eastern facade, the church is a triconch of the Athonite type, divided into a main church and a simple one, featuring semi-cylindrical arches and a dome. Its roof is covered in slate slabs — a characteristic example of the architecture of mountain monasteries in the Pindus range. Upon entering, you will notice that the narthex is set at a higher level than the main church, while the floor is paved with large stone slabs. Although no wall paintings survive, the 19th-century carved wooden iconostasis graces the space with an austere yet imposing atmosphere. Around the church, traces of the stone enclosure and monastic cells are evident, painting the picture of what once was a vibrant monastic centre. According to tradition, Agios Kosmas of Aetolia passed through here in the 18th century, leaving his spiritual imprint on this deeply contemplative site.
