Location information

St. Ephstratios

  During the period of Iconomachy, where many disturbances were taking place, Saint Ephstratios, the so-called miracle-worker, possibly persecuted and because he could not endure the seasickness anymore, he broke off his travel and he disembarked in the island. A shepherd and his son were the only inhabitants of the island. He found refuge in the cave, that today is called "Saint Ephstratios' Cave". The approach in the interior of the cave is very difficult or even impossible, after the earthquakes of 68's.
  There is no evidence that the Saint has lived on the island until the end of his life, but it is sure that the natives attributed to him an old grave which was found at the island and its tombstone was surrounded in a wall at the homonymous church, until the beginning of our century. However, it is said that the Skull of the Saint is kept today in the Monastery of Megisti Lavra of Mount Athos.
This text (extract) is cited May 2003 from the Prefecture of Lesvos & Lemnos Provincial Government tourist pamphlet.