Loutraki and the Monastery of St. Potapius

Loutraki is the most famous thermal resort in Greece and a healing place where everyone's body and soul are empowered.

Loutraki officially became a major Greek resort in 1925. But in ancient times there was a town called Therma, famous for its hot springs. In the 19th century, the curative properties of the local mineral waters and the possibilities for bathing in the springs were known throughout Europe. Since that time, it is customary to consider the history of modern Lutraki, which owes its popularity to the generous gift of nature.

Spa city: chosen by the gods

There are versions that the Olympian gods themselves loved to bathe in the waters of Loutraki. If the mythology does not inspire confidence, it is better to come and see for yourself: Loutraki has a lot to love. The resort's mineral water, rich in sodium and magnesium, has a pleasant taste and is considered "alive". And thus it is the most beneficial for human organism.

On the basis of springs in Loutraki there was erected a health resort that meets all modern requirements. Anyone may undergo a recovery and rejuvenation course of therapy, which includes body and face procedures, various kinds of massage, physiotherapy, mud treatment, Sharko shower with mineral waters, and bathing in the thermal pool.

Loutraki sights and attractions: mix business with pleasure

Vacation in Loutraki involves more than just treatment. From there it is convenient to organize day trips to the most important attractions in Greece. The legendary Mycenae, Epidaurus, Corinth, Delphi and Olympia are located close by. In the city itself there are ancient temples, and in the surrounding area you can see the ruins of ancient sanctuaries.

Loutraki has a casino and a summer cinema, which attracts many guests of the city. It is also worth a walk through its streets to see the ancient villas that belonged to famous Greek figures. All life in Loutraki is concentrated on the spa promenade. It stretches for 3,5 km and is full of all kinds of cafes, taverns, stores, and restaurants. On the beaches of Loutraki you can not only sunbathe but also rent catamarans, surf or buy a boat trip.

Saint Potapia Monastery: The spiritual center of Loutraki

Loutraki cannot be recognized without visiting the monastery of St. Potapia. The Monastery is located at 700m high and from there you can see the whole of Loutraki and the waters of the Corinthian gulf like in the palm of your hand. It is a surprisingly beautiful place where you can spend a few hours not only to learn the history of the monastery, but also to enjoy the silence and contemplation of nature. There is a parking lot not far from the monastery, but from it to the monastery there are 144 steps. According to a popular belief in Loutraki, one must overcome them in order to be purified of his 144 sins. At St. Potapios Monastery there is a church shop with icons and candles.

The monastery is relatively young - opened in the early 50s. But previously there was a cave church with frescoes. In 1904, the relics of St. Potapius, who lived in the IV century and devoted his entire life to serving God, were uncovered here. Today the miraculous relics along with the frescoes are the main shrines of the monastery. People turn to the saint for healing from many ailments. During his lifetime he wrought many miracles, the most famous of which are the healing of a man from blindness and a child from paralysis and the deliverance of the city of Thebes from the plague. Pilgrims take with them an amulet - a piece of absorbent cotton, which is soaked in oil from the lampade from the cave of the reverend.

Another relic of the monastery are the relics of Saint Hipomona, transferred to Loutraki from Constantinople along with the relics of Saint Potapios. The relics can be venerated in the new temple located in the monastery courtyard not far from the cave. The monastery also contains icons and frescoes by unknown Byzantine authors.