Holy Monastery of the Dormition of the Theotokos in Mikrokastro

Just a few kilometres from Siatista, in Mikrokastro, the Monastery of the Dormition of the Theotokos stands as one of the most important pilgrimage sites in West Macedonia. The icon of Panagia Eleousa, believed to be miraculous, attracts thousands of faithful each year — especially on August 15th, when the Horsemen of Siatista arrive on horseback to honour the Theotokos in a custom dating back to the Ottoman period and well worth witnessing up close. Since 1993, the monastery has operated as a convent and is also known for the natural products prepared by the nuns, including herbs, soaps, and beeswax ointments.