The monastery was founded around 1540 on the ruins of an older, destroyed church.
Saint David the Elder, the monastery's namesake, is believed to have been a student of Saint Gerasimos of Cephalonia.
The monastery houses a significant collection of holy relics, including the skull of Saint David.
Saint Iakovos Tsalikis, who served as abbot here, was officially canonized by the Ecumenical Patriarchate in 2017.
The monastery possesses a miraculous icon of the Transfiguration of Christ that attracts numerous pilgrims.
The onsite museum preserves ecclesiastical vestments, ancient manuscripts, and liturgical objects dating back several centuries.
A specific 'Holy Water' (Agiasma) spring is found near the monastery, associated with the life of Saint David.
The Monastery of Saint David the Elder is a historic Orthodox site nestled in the pine-forested mountains of northern Evia near the village of Rovies. Founded in the 16th century by Saint David, the complex includes a main katholikon, auxiliary buildings, and a landscaped courtyard. The site is widely recognized for the tomb of Saint Iakovos Tsalikis, a 20th-century elder whose relics are kept within the church. Visitors can access a small cave dedicated to the founder, located on a short trail behind the main monastery buildings. The monastery grounds offer expansive views of the surrounding mountainous landscape of the Xerovouni range. It remains an active monastic community, functioning as a center for pilgrimage and spiritual retreat.
The arched entrance gate framed by the stone courtyard and the dense pine forest background.
Carry a bottle to fill with water from the natural spring located near the monastery entrance.
Wear comfortable walking shoes if you plan to hike the short, marked trail leading to the founder's cave.
Purchase local monastery products, such as honey or herbs, from the small onsite shop.
Avoid loud conversation or photography inside the main katholikon, as it is a place of active prayer.
The monastery follows the monastic liturgical cycle and may restrict access to the interior during specific afternoon services.
Modest dress is strictly required: shoulders and knees must be covered for all visitors; women should wear skirts if possible.
