Wildfires devastate historic Church of Panagia Katafygia in Corinthia, Greece

Wildfires have caused severe damage in the Municipality of Xylokastro-Evrostini, Corinthia, Greece, leading to the complete destruction of the historic Church of Panagia Katafygia.

According to reports from KorinthosTV, the beloved church, located in the Zaholi region, was entirely engulfed by the rapidly spreading flames.

The Church of Panagia Katafygia, situated about 10 km south of Derveni, Corinthia, along the road to the mountainous Sarantapicho, has long been a significant religious and historical site. The church’s name derives from “Katafygia,” the area where it was built, which served as a refuge for locals fleeing the Turkish occupation.

Legend holds that in 1782, the first settlers sought sanctuary in the area’s inaccessible caves and steep cliffs, and construction of the church began shortly thereafter. For nearly a century, the chapel was maintained by a nun, but by 1880, she abandoned it due to the difficulties of access and isolation. However, the local community, along with nearby monasteries such as the Holy Monastery of Prophet Elias Koutos and the Church of Saint George Zacholis, took on the responsibility of preserving the church.

Efforts to improve accessibility to the site began in 1969, with stairs carved into the surrounding rocks, and by 1983, the church had running water. In 2002, it was finally connected to the electricity grid, solidifying its place as a cherished monument.

Under the jurisdiction of the Metropolis of Corinth, the church hosted an annual fair on August 23, attracting pilgrims from the region. Its loss marks the end of a nearly 240-year chapter of history, leaving the community mourning the destruction of a treasured symbol of faith and heritage.

Photographs: KorinthosTV

Source: ieidiseis.gr / orthodoxtimes.com