Pilgrimage to Mount Athos

Mount Athos, a millennia-old center of monasticism and Eastern Orthodox Christianity, serves as the spiritual heart for both pilgrims and monks. This collection of essays illuminates the unique dynamics of pilgrimage on the Holy Mountain, where over 20 monasteries annually host thousands of devotees seeking spiritual solace, confession, and wisdom from its elders. Despite a historical ban on female presence, women contribute significantly to scholarly discourse about Athos, underscoring its transcendent appeal beyond geographical constraints. The book explores the pilgrim experience—whether for men visiting Athonite monasteries or women at affiliated institutions—and examines the monks' role in receiving pilgrims, questioning whether these visitors are true seekers or modern-day tourists. It also delves into the essence of monastic life and its enduring significance in Orthodox tradition.

Speake, G. (Ed.). (2023). Pilgrimage to Mount Athos. https://doi.org/10.3726/b20934