Monastery of Saint Nicholas, Porto Lagos - Vatopedi Monastery The Church of St. Nicholas serves as a metochi (dependency) of the Athonite Holy Monastery of Vatopedi and currently functions as a pilgrimage site. It is situated on an islet within the Vistonida Lagoon (Bourous), near the fishing settlement of Porto Lagos. Its significant religious and historical importance, combined with a rich Athonite heritage and stunning natural beauty within the surrounds of Lake Vistonida, makes it a popular destination for pilgrims. The churches of St. Nicholas and Panagia Pantanassa are built in a prominent location that offers panoramic views and are connected to the Xanthi-Komotini national road by a scenic wooden bridge. According to tradition, during the Turkish occupation, a Bey owned the area. When his daughter fell ill, she was healed through the prayers of a holy ascetic. As a token of gratitude, the Bey donated the land to the Holy Monastery of Vatopedi on Mount Athos. Alternatively, another older tradition suggests that the Metochi of St. Nicholas was consecrated by Patriarch Nectarios in the presence of the Byzantine Emperor Arcadius. The Emperor dedicated the area as a thank-you to the Virgin Mary for saving him during a shipwreck while returning from Rome. Today, a small monastic brotherhood from the Vatopedi Monastery adheres to a daily schedule of holy services. On December 6, the feast of St. Nicholas, the site attracts large crowds of believers.