This monastery is built upon an elevation close by the Gorge of Perivolaka, an impressive spot fronting the Libyan Sea and the islet of Koufonisi.
A dependency of Moni Toplou, its main church was dedicated to the Beheading of St John the Baptist. Its date of foundation is not known – but according to the prevailing opinion it was in the 15th century AD. It was later sacked by pirates and left abandoned. Other opinions have the Monastery built earlier .. in the 14th or even 13th century AD.
On the 29th August, which is the Festival day for the monastery, a traditional panigyri takes place: the press of believers (who turn up even on foot) overwhelms the place.
The quiet beach in front of the monastery has pebbles and blue waters, and plenty of tamarisks. There is no organization here nor anywhere nearby. But is, thus, a perfect place for peace and quiet.
Because of the presence of the monastery, nudism is forbidden on the beach. On the other hand, the beach is fine for unsupervised camping, so long as the campers do not annoy the monks by their behaviour.
If in the neighbourhood, the Perivolakia gorge is a must for a trip: it passes right by the monastery.
Between Makrigialos and Goudouras are the beaches of Kalami, Limani tou Theodorou and Votsalaki.
