Pilgrims Flock to Panagia Soumela in Vermio – Even Greeks from India Arrive for the Religious Pilgrimage

Just days before the great Feast of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, visitors from around the globe have begun arriving at one of the most historic pilgrimage sites in the Orthodox world – the Panagia Soumela Monastery on Mount Vermio in northern Greece.

“Panagia Soumela is a global pilgrimage destination for Pontic Greeks – and not only them. This year, we are welcoming people from every corner of the planet,” said Dimitris Mantzios, President of the Imathia Hoteliers’ Association, in an interview with Athens/Macedonian News Agency’s radio station, “Praktoreio 104.9 FM.”

According to Mr. Mantzios, this year’s turnout is particularly high, with many pilgrims having already arrived after traveling thousands of kilometers. “What’s especially heartwarming is that we even have visitors from India this year – Greeks who live and work there. They’ve arrived as a small group and are staying in a local hotel. We also have visitors from Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and several Dutch pilgrims as well,” he noted. “Many are combining their pilgrimage to Panagia Soumela with a 4- to 5-day vacation that includes guided tours and excursions in the wider region.”

Mr. Mantzios also pointed out that, traditionally, a large group from the U.S. visits the area every year. This sizeable community has been organizing an annual pilgrimage to Panagia Soumela for the past six to seven years without interruption.

“Religious tourism brings significant economic benefits to the region, boosting all sectors of the local economy. The entire area is energized. Tourism is a key driver of growth and a powerful asset,” he emphasized. “What’s more, the visitors who come year after year have developed personal relationships with the hoteliers – they see them as friends. For instance, the Greek-Americans are so familiar that we know them by their first names. And each year, they bring even more of their friends from abroad,” Mr. Mantzios concluded.

Source: pagenews.gr