Agios Georgios Mandilas Guide
A Saint's Day Dare: The Tradition of Agios Georgios Mandilas Guide
Agios Georgios Mandilas, or the Chapel of Saint George, is not a monastery in the traditional sense, but rather a small chapel nestled at the foot of one of the towering Meteora rocks. It's a place steeped in tradition and legend, drawing visitors who seek blessings and participate in a unique and daring ritual. While not as architecturally grand as the monasteries, Agios Georgios Mandilas offers a different kind of spiritual experience, one deeply connected to the local community and its customs. The history of Agios Georgios Mandilas is intertwined with local folklore. Legend has it that a local man had a vision of Saint George who instructed him to retrieve his scarf (mandilas) from a cave high up on the rock face. The man, with the help of others, scaled the rock and found the scarf. In gratitude, they built a small chapel dedicated to Saint George at the base of the rock. Over time, the tradition evolved into a daring annual event where young men climb the rock face to hang scarves (mandilas) as offerings to the saint, seeking his blessings for health, fertility, and good fortune. The main activity at Agios Georgios Mandilas is witnessing or participating in the annual festival held on April 23rd (or the first Monday after Easter if April 23rd falls before Easter). During this festival, brave young men climb the sheer rock face using ropes and rudimentary equipment to replace the old scarves with new ones. Visitors can also light candles, pray, and admire the small chapel adorned with icons and offerings. The atmosphere is filled with excitement, anticipation, and a deep sense of faith.
Transportation
Agios Georgios Mandilas is located in the village of Kastraki, at the foot of the Meteora rocks. It is easily accessible by car, taxi, or on foot from Kastraki. Local buses also connect Kalambaka and Kastraki, making it convenient to reach the village. From the village center, follow the signs to the chapel.