They are men—exclusively. According to rigidly enforced custom, women have been forbidden to visit Mount Athos since its earliest days—a position born out of weakness rather than spite.

The Mount Athos is known to the inhabitants as the Garden of the Mother ... There, it has performed many miracles, especially by healing barren women. - Ephor, the Mother of God as “Overseer” of Athos ...

Jesus complied and since then all other women have been banned. If you’re a man you can apply for a four-day visit. Contact the Mount Athos Office in Thessaloniki by phone or mail. Allow several ...