Greek monk missing after traveling to Turkey

Nikolaos Tsigkozis, a 58-year-old Greek Orthodox monk known as Iosif, has been reported missing after traveling to Turkey. Tsigkozis departed from Neo Mylotopos in Giannitsa, Greece, on July 23, 2026, with the stated intention of visiting the Pontus and Cappadocia regions to live as an ascetic. His family has had no contact with him since his departure, leading to concerns for his safety.

According to the Greek Consulate in Istanbul, an individual matching the description of the monk visited their offices on July 25, 2026, seeking information on how to reach the Pontus region. The monk's relatives, who have highlighted the case on the television program "Fos sto Tunnel," state that his decision to travel was a long-planned endeavor rather than a spontaneous act. The family remains in a state of distress, searching for any signs of his whereabouts or confirmation of his fate.

Investigations are ongoing as the family continues to search for clues regarding his current location. The case has gained public attention as authorities attempt to retrace his route from his initial appearance in Istanbul toward his intended destination.