President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides conducts pilgrimage to Mount Athos

Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides arrived at Mount Athos on Saturday, November 7, 2026, for a personal pilgrimage aimed at strengthening the spiritual ties between Cyprus and the monastic community. Upon his arrival in Karyes, the administrative center of the peninsula, he was received by the Holy Community with official honors. During his visit, the President attended the Church of the Protaton to venerate the historic “Axion Esti” icon of the Virgin Mary. He was accompanied by government officials, including Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis, Ambassador Stavros Avgustidis, Consul Konstantinos Polykarpou, and the Civil Administrator of Mount Athos, Anastasios Mitsialis.

The President’s itinerary included visits to the Holy Monastery of Gregoriou, where he was welcomed by Abbot Elder Christoforos, and the Holy Great Monastery of Vatopedi. At Vatopedi, he met with Abbot Elder Ephraim to discuss national and social challenges facing Cyprus, emphasizing the importance of unity and spiritual support. Christodoulides, who noted he arrived as a “simple pilgrim” without formal titles, requested prayers for the Cypriot people. This marks his second visit to the region since taking office, following his inaugural trip in March 2024. He is expected to return to Cyprus on Sunday.