During the early centuries of Christianity the Region of Himara has played an important role as being part of the Byzantine Empire. On the first millenia Himara was a member of the Despotate of Epirus and for some years it also played the role of the capital. During the Ottoman period the most serious problem for the Church was the massive return to Muslims.
THE MONASTERY
This monastery is situated about 2 km northwest of the Church and Monastery of Saint Mary of Kakome, inside the beach of Akroriza, built in the middle of the 14th century. The floor plan of the Church resembles a cross with a cupola and is similar to other Byzantine churches found in the area. The roof of the church is covered with stone slabs and the church itself dates to the post Byzantine period, with frescoes painted by Mihal of the Jero village in 1672. Admission is free to both churches though a small donation is encouraged for their upkeep, if possible.
In this monastery there was a large bell (like in Lukove village) donated by King of Naples with an interesting inscription, in memory of 30 brave wariors who defended the king of Naples. This bell disappeared in 1967 and the fate was never known. Despite the lack of roads, a large number of visitors come to enjoy the magic of the virgin beach with crystal-clear waters.
I personally recommend visiting this church as it is one of the oldest churches of the region and the other reason is the beach, an extraordinary place with great historical and religious values!
