Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Savior (Lord Jesus) of Sagmata
The Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Savior of Sagmata is a male orthodox Christian monastery in the region of Viotia. It is situated east of Thebes on the slopes of mountain Hypatio, built on the edge of a steep gorge. From the point where it is built it boasts a panoramic view of the plain of Thebes. The monastery is reached by a paved road that passes through the village of Hypato. Its name means “saddle” and probably it is named after the mountain where it is built and looks like saddle or because in the past there was a monk who was maker of saddles.
It is dedicated to the Holy Klimis the Athenian, who was the founder of the monastery in the 12th century and his memory is honored on January 26 and May 1st. The monastery was built on the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to the Consul Zeus (Jove, Jupiter), building materials from which were used for its erection. The sponsor of the monastery was the Emperor Alexios I Komninos, who granted rich gifts and privileges to the monastery. During the German Occupation the monastery was plundered and then declined. Restoration work has begun since 1970.
A particular space inside the monastery is dedicated to Saint Luke of Simferopol - Crimea (1877-1961) where his personal objects and icons are displayed.
At the Monastery of Sagmata has been abbot (1971-1977), the current Archbishop of Athens, Archbishop Ieronymos.
