Zygou Monastery - Frankokastro #1386

Description

The name "Zygos" was first mentioned in 942 in a document regarding a dispute between local inhabitants and the monks of Athos.

The monastery was founded in 991 and was part of the Athos monastic community. However, for unknown reasons, it was abandoned by 1199. After the Fourth Crusade in 1204, a Frankish knight took over the monastery and turned it into his castle, using it as a base for raids against the wealthy monasteries of Athos. The Frank was eventually forced to leave in 1211 after the monks complained to the Pope.