Metochia

Metochia is a term with origins in the Greek language, meaning "dependency" or "appurtenance." Historically, it has been used in various contexts to describe a subordinate entity or property that is attached to or dependent upon a larger, principal one. This concept is most notably found in the historical and ecclesiastical spheres.

In the context of the Eastern Orthodox Church, a metochion (plural: metochia) often refers to a monastic dependency or a piece of property owned by a monastery or church located elsewhere. These metochia could be chapels, farms, or even entire villages that were administered by the parent monastery. They served various purposes, including providing resources, housing for monks or pilgrims, or serving as centers for evangelization. The relationship was one of ecclesiastical and administrative dependence.

The term can also extend to secular contexts, referring to land or buildings that belonged to a larger estate or institution. In essence, a metochion represents a satellite or an outpost that is intrinsically linked to its parent body, drawing its authority, resources, or existence from it. The specific nature and function of a metochion would vary depending on the historical period and the particular domain in which the term was applied.