Monk Jesuit Alvertinis arrived at Tinos in 1661 and lived in Exomvourgo (the city outside the fortress). Later on, the bishop gave him residence and the church within the fortified fortress until 1715 when it was occupied by the Turks.
Within a decade, with the help of friends and believers, the great church of Saint Sofia was built but was abandoned in 1846. However, when Jesuit Alousio arrived at the island, the church was rebuilt and renamed to Church Ieras Kardias of Jesus (=church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus). Many rooms have been added since then and the place has been turned into a pilgrimage.
The pilgrimage is very famous nowadays. Every Friday throughout the year there is a Mass attended by many believers. In July, there is a festival that lasts a whole week and attracts believers from all parts of Greece.
In the monastery you will find an accommodation center (mainly for young people from all over the world) which stays open throughout the year.
