Tower of Protatus #1383

Description

It is located next to the building that houses the community's assembly and just a few meters from the Cathedral of Athos, the Church of the Dormition of Theotokos, also known as "Protato," the oldest church on Mount Athos.

Since its establishment in the 10th century, Karyes has been the seat of the community's administrator, known as the "Protos" (meaning "the first"), which is where the name Protato originates.

The tower was rebuilt in 1694 and again in 1890. Today, it serves as the central library of Mount Athos, housing significant documents, including the first Typikon (Constitution of Athos) from 972, signed by the Byzantine emperor John Tzimiskes.