Mount Athos is an autonomous republic, with an area of just 336km² 129miles²and a population of 4,000 (1997 estimate).  Included within Greece, which recognises its autonomy, the republic is a long, mountainous promontory occupied by 20 Orthodox monasteries and their dependencies.

Its government is the Holy Council comprising one representative from each of the 20 monasteries.



Under the terms of a law dating from 1066 Mount Athos is inaccessible to all females, adult or child, including the female of any species of domestic animal.  



Women are also not allowed to approach the shores of the monks’ republic by boat.