Alexis Tsipras, the leader of the main opposition party SYRIZA, will visit Holy Mountain. His visit was scheduled a long time ago attempting to restore its party’s relations with the church.

Mr. Tsipras had expressed his desire to visit Mt. Athos since January when he met Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew.

During his stay, he will visit six monasteries and all major projects financed by the Greek state and the European Union through relevant community programs. It is expected to be informed about the problems the monasteries face, particularly the tax issues, but it is uncertain whether he will dare to raise the issue of “Avaton” which prevents women from entering the spiritual oasis of Mt. Athos.