Not far from Argostoli, near Fragata, is the most important Christian monument of the island, the Monastery of Agios Gerasimos. This patron Saint of the island is very popular with residents, and the monastery dedicated in his honor attracts many pilgrims every day. A few words about St. Gerasimos: scion of an aristocratic family, at age 20 decided to become a monk and began to travel to all the famous centers of the early Christian era. His travels led him to Kefalonia, where he lived and died as an ascetic. If you wonder why he chose especially this place out of all the places he visited, you will find the answer just visiting for yourself. From the moment you cross the ornate stone entrance, the peacefulness of this place overwhelms you. Beneath the shadow of the proud Mount Ainos and and the four large plane trees that adorn the tiled courtyard, you will have the opportunity to visit the exalted Church of the Koimisi of the Theotokou (Assumption of the Virgin Mary), restored by St. Gerasimos. Within the foundations of the church lie the cave where the hermit saint sequestered himself, the archontariki (guest quarters) where the nuns willingly offer to inform visitors about their lifestyle, and finally the newly established chapel dedicated to the protector of Kefalonia, with stunning paintings, dazzling colors and of course the magnificent reliquary of St. Gerasimos.
The monastery receives visitors daily from 4:00 a.m. to 13:00 and 15:30 to 21:00. If you happen to come to the island on 16 August or 20 October, do not miss the procession of the relics of the Saint in the surrounding areas.