The last, but not least, in the hierarchy of monasteries in Mount Athos is the monastery of Konstamonitou. It is considered to be the poorest and most remote monasteries while it is located in the forest within a one-hour walking distance from the coastline.
It was founded in 1086 and according to tradition, the founder was a monk from Kastamonas in Paphlagonia, a city in the Black Sea. For the upcoming centuries, quite important for its survival and growth was the aid from Byzantine emperors and Serbian princes.
The main church of the monastery is dedicated to Saint Stephanos while it was built in 1867, on the ruins of an older church. In the main church, someone can see a Byzantine cross, a piece from the Holy Cross, and the remains of many Saints.
There are many smaller churches, sketes (small monasteries), and cells for monks built inside and outside the walls of the monastery. There are approximately 40 monks living permanently in the monastery and it is isolated from the other monasteries. It is located in the middle of the peninsula and the best time of the year to visit it is during the summer when the guest, among others, can enjoy the amazing natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.