The shrine of Saint John the Russian
Prokopi lies in the north of Evia, north of the island's centre. It is known for the pilgrimage shrine of Saint John the Russian, which stands in New Prokopi. The church, the relic and the visitor facilities are all there.
This is a living place of worship. Many visitors come as pilgrims, others as travellers who want to see it while crossing the north. Either way, treat it as a church first and as a sight second. If you want to combine it with other stops, see the Evia tours and day trips for guided options.
The feast day and services
When Prokopi is busiest.
27 May
The church remembers Saint John the Russian on 27 May, and the shrine in Prokopi is the place associated with that day. If you plan your trip around the feast, ask about service times in advance and expect more people than on an ordinary day.
Services through the year
Services take place around the feast and on anniversaries, and the shrine is active in 2026. That tells you the place is alive, but it does not replace a daily opening schedule.
Opening hours
Before you drive out, check the shrine's current visiting hours so you do not arrive during a service or a closed period.
Evia tours and day trips
Boat trips, hiking and guided day trips on Evia, with live prices and availability.
How to visit respectfully
Simple habits that fit any Orthodox church.
- Dress: dress respectfully and comfortably. Ask at the shrine about its current dress guidance rather than assuming a rule.
- Behaviour: speak quietly, put your phone on silent and follow the people around you.
- Photos: do not take photos during services. Ask before photographing people or the relic.
- Cost: check on site whether any fee applies. Parking rules should be confirmed locally.
The tradition around the saint is a matter of faith for believers. Read it as part of local religious life and not as something to test.
Getting to Prokopi
By road across the bridge at Chalkida.
By car
Athens to Chalkida is 78.9 km and about 1 hour 28 minutes. From there the north takes longer: Chalkida to Edipsos is 127 km and about 2 hours 25 minutes. A rental car makes the north easier, and our page on car rental from Athens Airport explains the route.
By train and bus
Trains run between Athens and Chalkida, and the KTEL bus company serves the island. Check the current timetable, because services change with the season.
The road inland
Check conditions on the road between Prokopi and Mantoudi, and on the coastal road near Rovies, before you set out. See Athens to Evia for the whole journey.
Combine Prokopi with the north
Neighbouring towns.
A slow day in the north
One way to link the stops without rushing.
Morning: the shrine
Start early, when churches are quietest, and keep the visit short and quiet. Confirm the hours first, and leave time for a service if one is under way.
Midday: the coast
Drive on to Limni for a walk along the harbour and a long lunch. Distances in the north are large, so do not stack too many stops into one day.
Afternoon: a soak
If you have a second day, the outdoor pool at Edipsos costs €9 in the 2026 season, which ends on 30 or 31 October.
Prokopi: frequently asked questions
Who is Saint John the Russian?
He is a saint of the Orthodox Church whose relic is kept in the church at New Prokopi. The church marks his memory on 27 May.
When is the feast day?
On 27 May. Services around the feast take place at the shrine, so ask in advance if you want to attend.
Is there an entrance fee?
Check on site. Do not assume the visit is free or paid until you have asked.
What should I wear?
Dress respectfully and ask the shrine for its current guidance. Do not rely on rules from other monasteries.
How far is Prokopi from Edipsos and Limni?
They are all in the north of the island. Chalkida to Edipsos is 127 km, and Athens to Limni over the high bridge is 154 km, about 2 hours 34 minutes.