Vandalism at Prophet Elias Chapel on Mount Taygetos
Damage was reported at the Orthodox Chapel of Prophet Elias on the summit of Mount Taygetos in September 2026, approximately one year after its restoration. Photographs in the reports showed roof beams removed or torn out, reportedly used to light a fire, as well as bottles and other objects inside the chapel. The condition of the chapel raised concerns about the protection of this remote place of worship, although the available reports do not establish who was responsible. The minister deputy expressed his strong indignation and deep distress in a social media post, as the chapel is a part of the identity of the Taygetos summit and pilgrimage destination.
On 28 September 2026, reports published photographs of damage at the historic stone chapel dedicated to Prophet Elias, situated near the summit of Mount Taygetos. A mountaineer had shared images showing wooden roof beams that appeared to have been torn out and reportedly used to light a fire. Bottles and other objects were also found inside the chapel.
The chapel had undergone substantial restoration about a year earlier, and the damage prompted an expression of concern from local officials and philanthropists, with the Lokonia deputy expressing his "strong indignation and deep distress through social media." The Holy Metropolis of Mani also expressed sadness over the chapel’s condition and stated that the appropriate authorities were taking action.
The incident has renewed concerns about the protection of small religious and cultural landmarks located in remote mountainous areas of Greece. The chapel has become part of the identity of the Taygetos summit and a destination for mountaineers, pilgrims and visitors.
Update, 21 October 2026: Deputy Minister of National Defence Thanasis Davakis announced that military personnel and volunteers had completed further repairs and maintenance at the chapel ahead of winter. The work included repairing the door and roof, installing six additional supports and securing gaps between the stones and roof slabs. Participants also collected ten large bags of rubbish. He urged visitors to close the chapel door and keep the site clean.
Sources: facebook, orthodoxhouse, orthodoxtime
Image: facebook