Greece - Agia Varvara, Saint Paisios tree church

Nearby the hamlet of Agia Varvara one can find a unique tiny church, build in the trunk of a 300 year huge oak tree. This tree church is dedicated to Saint Paisios. It is believed that Saint Paisios, one of the most beloved figures in the Orthodox Church, passed through the area in his youth, going to nearby villages to carry out carpentry work and repairs in local houses.

The blessed tree had suffered severe destruction and fire, resulting in deteriorating condition. With each passing year, its condition worsened and there was a fear it might collapse. However , thanks to a local villager, the weak tree was internally shielded with local stone. A miracle happened and the tree has turned green again.

On the outside, there is a small bell, while on the inside, which only holds two people, there is a recess where the visitor can light his candle, a candelabrum, an icon of Christ, an icon of the Virgin Mary and in the center the icon of Saint Paisios.