5.3 Magnitude Earthquake Rattles Northern Greece’s Mount Athos Monastic Community

The shallow undersea quake struck near Karyes, the spiritual center of the Mount Athos monastic enclave, prompting concern but no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

Athens [Greece], June 7: A moderate undersea earthquake measuring 5.3 on the Richter scale struck northern Greece on Saturday, shaking the historically and spiritually significant Greek Orthodox monastic enclave of Mount Athos. The tremor was reported by the Geodynamic Institute of Athens.

The earthquake occurred shortly before 4 p.m. local time, with its epicenter located approximately nine kilometers (5.6 miles) northwest of Karyes — the administrative and spiritual hub of Mount Athos. The quake’s depth was recorded at just 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles), making it a shallow seismic event with potential for strong surface shaking.

Mount Athos, situated in the Halkidiki peninsula of northern Greece, is home to a unique autonomous monastic community that has been continuously inhabited for over a thousand years. Known for its strict entry regulations — including a ban on female visitors — the area houses 20 Eastern Orthodox monasteries and is considered one of the most sacred sites in Orthodox Christianity.

Despite the quake’s intensity and proximity to this deeply revered location, there were no immediate reports of injuries or significant structural damage. Authorities are continuing to monitor the region, and local seismologists are evaluating the possibility of aftershocks.

Greece is one of Europe’s most seismically active countries, located at the complex boundary between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates. While earthquakes are relatively common and often minor, shallow tremors like this one can cause alarm and sometimes minor damage due to their proximity to the Earth’s surface.

Residents in nearby areas of the Halkidiki peninsula and northern Greece reportedly felt the shaking, with some experiencing brief panic. According to early reports, monasteries across Mount Athos remained largely unaffected, and religious activities continued without interruption.

The Greek Civil Protection Agency remains on alert and has advised residents in surrounding regions to stay informed but not to panic. “We urge calm and awareness. Our teams are conducting checks in the affected areas to assess any risks or damages,” a spokesperson said.

As assessments continue, experts are urging caution and preparedness in the region. The Earthquake Planning and Protection Organization (OASP) reiterated standard earthquake safety advice, including securing loose objects and being aware of designated safe zones indoors.

With its rich religious and historical legacy, any seismic activity around Mount Athos draws significant attention. While Saturday’s earthquake has not resulted in a crisis, it serves as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability and the need for ongoing vigilance.