The road to Tsampika monastery turns off the main road, some meters before the turn to Tsambika beach. The road leads half of the way up on the hill. From this point on, you will have to walk up the hill, following the 350 steps. On the top of the hill you will find the tiny, Byzantine church, dedicated to the Virgin. It's perched at an altitude of some 240 m featuring some truly spectacular views on the coast, both north over Kolymbia and south over Tsambika beach and all the way to Lindos, which makes the strenuous effort uphill definitely worth a try!
According to local legend, women experiencing difficulties with conception are advised to ascend Tsampika Hill barefoot to pray to the Virgin Mary for fertility. It is believed that such acts of faith are often rewarded, resulting in fulfilled wishes. If a child is born as a result, it is customary to name a male child "Tsampikos" and a female child "Tsampika." The prevalence of these names on the island is notable; calling out either name in a busy street often elicits responses from multiple individuals. Tsampikos and Tsampika celebrate their name day on September 7th.
Frequently asked questions
How many steps are there at Tsambika Monastery?
There are 350 stone steps from the car park to the top of the hill where the monastery church stands. The climb takes most visitors between 15 and 25 minutes.
Can you drive to Tsambika Monastery?
You can drive to a car park partway up the hill. The upper section of the route must be completed on foot via the 350 steps — there is no road access to the summit.
What is the legend of Tsambika and fertility?
Local tradition holds that women experiencing difficulty conceiving should climb the hill barefoot and pray to the Virgin Mary at the monastery. Children born following this pilgrimage are customarily named Tsampikos (for a boy) or Tsampika (for a girl). The feast day on 7 September draws many pilgrims.
When is the best time to visit Tsambika Monastery?
Early morning or late afternoon visits are best, particularly in summer, as the steps are largely unshaded. The 7 September feast day is culturally significant but attracts large crowds. Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures for the climb.
What should I wear to visit Tsambika Monastery?
Modest dress is required to enter the church: shoulders and knees must be covered. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are strongly recommended for the steps. Women taking part in the fertility pilgrimage traditionally make the ascent barefoot.
Is Tsambika Monastery worth visiting?
Yes - the combination of a genuinely ancient Byzantine church, a living pilgrimage tradition, and sweeping views over some of Rhodes's most beautiful coastline makes it one of the most rewarding stops on the island's eastern coast. The 350-step climb is strenuous but entirely manageable for most visitors.
What is the name day of Tsampikos and Tsampika?
Tsampikos and Tsampika celebrate their name day on 7 September, which coincides with the feast day of the Monastery of Panagia Tsambika.
Tsambika (Tsampika) Monastery Map and Location
There are many more things to do and places to visit on Rhodes island - do not miss out exploring them!
