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Home , Cave of the Apocalypse, Church of Panagia Kera, Dionysades, Fengari, Hosios Loukas, Lefka Ori

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September 26, 2009 www.thenationalherald.com 2 GREEK TOURISM 2009 THE NATIONAL HERALD, SEPTEMBER 26, 2009

RELIGIOUS TOURISM Discover The Other Face of God. In the early the spring, a little way beyond, were of Philanthropenoi. first anachorites living in the caves considered to be his sacred fount It is situated on the island of Lake in wanted to find a place (hagiasma). Pamvotis in . It was found- to pray, to communicate with God : The city was ed at the end of the 13th c by the and devote to him. In the 14th cen- founded by Cassander in 315 B.C. Philanthropenoi, a noble Constan- tury, Athanassios the Meteorite and named after his wife, Thessa- tinople family. The 's fres- founded the Great Meteora. Since lonike, sister of Alexander the coes dated to the 16th c. are excel- then, and for more than 600 years, Great. Paul the Apostle reached the lent samples of post-Byzantine hundreds of and thousands city in autumn of 49 A.D. painting. Visitors should not miss in of believers have travelled to this Splendid Early Christian and the northern outer narthex the fa- holy site in order to pray. Byzantine Temples of very impor- mous depicting the great The monks faced enormous tant historical value, such as the Greek philosophers and symboliz- problems due to the 400 meter Acheiropoietos (5th century A.D.) ing the union between the ancient height of the Holy Rocks. They built and the Church of the Holy Wisdom Greek spirit and Christianity. Typical church in Oia, aerial ladders and they used nets in of God (Agia Sophia) of the 7th of Olympio- order to secure the pas between the century A.D. seem to have been tissa, : The Monastery of . Today the pilgrims built on the ruins of the Early Chris- Panagia Olympiotissa was founded use the 200 steps so as to climb to tian Basilica. The Church of Pana- in the 13th c by the Byzantine Em- the 24 monasteries of the Meteora gia Chalkeon (1028 A.D.), Saint peror Andronicus II Paleologus. It is Rocks. They stand with respect and Demetrios Temple. patron Saint dedicated to the Assumption of the awe of this symbol of Christianity. and protector of the city, that was Virgin Mary. Those of its frescoes UNESCO had included the Holy built on the ruins of the thermae in that have been preserved to the Rocks of Meteora on the lists of the which the great martyr was impris- present day were painted in the World Heritage Sites. oned and inhumed in 303 A.D. are 13th c as well by Manuel Panseli- a few of the Churches that one can nos, the great master of the Mace- IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF PAUL visit today. The ancient market, the donian Painting School. THE APOSTLE Triumphal Arch and the Palace of Through the passage of time, the Paul the Apostle, also known as Galerius, a part of which has sur- Monastery has been subject to the Apostle of Nations, is one of the vived in Navarinou Square, the Ro- raids, destruction, and pillaging greatest personalities in the history tunda, which was built in 4th cen- not only during the Turkish Occu- of Christianity as well as a very im- tury A.D. and was converted into a pation but during the Nazi one as portant teacher of the faith and the Christian Church during the reign well. The monastery maintains an evolution of Theology. Saul, the ex- of Theodosius the Great, take aback extensive library which owes its ex- prosecutor of the first Christians, the visitors. istence to the generous donation of was the Apostle who travelled : Paul the Apostle visited 400 volumes on theology and liter- around the known world of that Athens in 51 A.D., the city of Philos- ature by Anthimos Otympiotis, a time so as deliver the message of ophy, Intellection, Arts and celebrated scholar. Jesus' Crucifixion and Resurrec- Parthenon. The ship carrying the Monastery of , tion. During his three journeys, he Apostle, dropped anchor at : The Monastery of encountered huge difficulties: he Phaleron, which was then the main Hosios Loukas Steriotis in Beotia is was imprisoned and tortured, but port of Athens and walked to the home to two of the most significant he never abandon his mission. city where he found an with religious monuments in Greece, He preached in sixteen different the inscription "to the unknown dating back to Byzantine times: the regions in Greece. His Epistles to God". While he was waiting for his church of the Virgin Mary (10th c) the Corinthians, the Philippians, students, Silas and Timothy, to ar- and the monastery's katholikon the Thessalonians, the Ephesians rive from , he walked (11th c). Both structures command and the Romans preserve his across the ancient market and the the awe and admiration of contem- preaches. , he visited the synagogue porary visitors since they are char- Paul begins his journey in 49 and discussed with the philoso- acterized by impressive masonry A.D. to Via Egnatia, a large road phers of that time, until the mo- and magnificent yet refined archi- constructed by the Proconsul ment he was taken to the Aeropa- tectural elements and sculptures Gnaius Egnatius. Via Egnatia was gus in order to preach formally for which bear testimony to the imper- linking Dyrrhachium, on the Adri- the Unknown God. Today in Athens ial care lavished on the buildings. atic Sea, with Byzantium and was there are many Early Christian and The Monastery of Hosios Loukas the route that connected all the big Byzantine Churches, such as Kap- has been included in UNESCO's cities of Macedonia. nikarea (11th century A.D.), the World Heritage List. From , Paul the Monastery of Kaisariani (11th cen- Mega Spilaio, : Apostle went to Neapolis, in the re- tury A.D.) with wall-paintings dat- Built on a rugged, forbidding cliff, Religious travelling is not some- , which testify the devotion to kind of life in the Monastic State of gion of , in the northern part ing back to the sixteenth century the historic Mega Spilaio of Kalavri- thing new. It has been and still re- the traditions and the abiding con- . The imposing histori- of Greece. A.D., a Church dedicated to Paul ta rises 120 meters above the mains the oldest and prevailing nection between the Art and the cal Monasteries, the marvellous On Samothrace, one of the most the Apostle (1887 A.D.) in the canyon. According to form of travelling in human Histo- Religion. cells built in caves or pendulous beautiful and important islands in heart of Athens etc. tradition, the monastery was ry. In Greece, religious tourism Some very important religious over rocks, castles, cupolas and the northeast Aegean, have sur- Corinth: In the early 50 A.D. the founded by two monks from Thes- stems from pilgrimage related ac- sites in Greece are the Autonomous campaniles, have been standing on vived many Byzantine Temples and Apostle arrived at Corinth where he saloniki, Symeon and Theodorus tivities, well rooted in past ages. Monastic State of the Holy Moun- the edge of the mountains for more findings of priceless archaeological stayed for 18 months. During his after they had discovered the From very ancient times, pilgrim- tain, |the impressive monasteries than a thousand years... value that point out the times of the third journey Paul passed from Les- miraculous icon of Panagia Dex- age has been a strong incentive of Meteora, , the island of The psalmodies reach the sky great heyday that the island en- bos, , and , three won- iokratousa (Our Lady Holding Holy which made people [travel towards Apocalypse of , the and transfer the visitors into... an- joyed. The state of Nike (Victory) of derful islands of Northern Aegean. Infant in her right arm) which had religious sites all over Greece. regions where Paul the Apostle other dimension! Samothrace, which is nowadays in The ancient monuments, the been painted by Luke the Evange- Moreover, religion, as a cultural travelled to during his journeys, the In this ark of Orthodoxy, every- the Louvre Museum in Paris, as Churches and the Monasteries of list. Mega Spilaio became the hub feature, is closely related to monastic center of Papikion moun- thing follows a different rythm of well as the columns in various parts the Byzantine era attract thousands of revolutionary activities during ttourism, thus constituting a spe- tain in (Rodopi), the unique life: the habits, the philosophy and all over the island and particularly of visitors every year. the Greek War of Independence, cial tourist activity based on dis- pilgrimages in the Churches of Vir- the thoughts, the landscape, the in Paliapolis, the ancient city of and : On Kow, the is- which culminated with the tinct cultural backgrounds and tra- gin Mary, such as Panagia (Virgin nature, the calendar (the Julian Samothrace, reflect the high level land where Medicine advanced monastery's staving off the advanc- ditions. Mary) of (, Panagia Soumela, one), the time (the Byzantine cere- of civilization during Antiquity, during Antiquity by Hippocrates, ing armies of Ibrahim Pasha in Since Antiquity until our days, Panagia Ekatontapyliani etc. monial is still followed), the termi- mostly during the Hellenistic known as the Father of Medicine, 1827. Home to the sacred icon of the Greeks used to express their re- The splendid Greek nature is in- nology, the food, the greeting, Times. The of Samoth- the Apostle preached near the big the Virgin Mary as well as to many ligiosity, their deep faith and their tertwined with the blessing of God. even.. the animals! Wherever the race was accessible to all those who platan. saints' , it also houses a muse- devotion to God which has re- Every rock, every cobblestone visitor goes, he will be fascinated desired to be initiated into the mys- Rhodes, one of most beautiful um with remarkable historical ob- mained the main characteristic of pavement, every mountain and is- by the beauty of nature and the teries of the Cabeiri. Greek islands, was inhabited dur- jects from the Greek War of Inde- Orthodoxy for two thousand years. land is a path to the spiritual exalta- idyllic landscapes, which he can ex- : The vast archaeologi- ing the Neolithic Period. pendence. The foreigners, as well as the tion. The travel to the other side |of plore by following the mountain cal site and the Early Christian The island, full of findings and Panagia Hozoviotissa, : Greek visitors, are astonished by Greece, which reflects the sense of paths. Temples that exist up to now point castles, is one of the best destina- The Monastery of Panagia Hozovio- the thousands of Byzantine Tem- religiosity during the centuries, is, out the importance of the city. tions since tourists can admire an- tissa is built on eight successive lev- ples, the innumerable chapels, the basically, a trip through time. Ex- DISCOVER METEORA Today in Philippi there is one of cient Greek and Roman creations els on the vertical face of a cliff for- Monastery Dependencies, the con- plore it! In the North-western side of the most important archaeological as well as the castle of the Order of mation and it is no wider than 5 vents, the Monasteries, the holy pil- Thessaly, in the province of , sites of Greece, while a part of the the Knights of St. John of meters. Tradition has it that the grimages and the innumerable reli- DISCOVER MOUNT ATHOS right in the heart of the Greek ancient market (Agora) and Early Jerusalem (Hospitaliers). Monastery was founded during the gious sites that raise awe. Which the splendid Au- mainland, one can see the massif Christian Basillicas (5th century Panagia Soumela, Macedonia: period of Iconomachy (8th-9th c), In many regions Orthodoxy is tonomous Monastic State of the rocks of Meteora. Their magnifi- A.B.) have survived. After the Catastrophe in Asia Mi- when the icon of the Virgin Mary associated with constructions and Holy Mountain, man meets God. cent beauty has been captivating On his way to Thessalonica, Paul nor, the refugees that came to reached in a miraculous way the is- monuments of worship of various Time is no longer important. In the the scientists' interest for centuries the Apostle visited also Amphipolis Greece from the area of the Black land of Amorgos from Hozova, religions, which bring out the rare Easter peninsula of Chalkidiki, in and the site is ideal for and Apollonia. Sea built on the slopes of Mount Palestine. Other tales of tradition historical and cultural value of the so-called "Garden of Virgin and prayer for both monks and pil- Amphipolis, one of the most im- Vermion, the Monastery of Panagia claim that the monastery was Greece. In Greece, the visitor, tour- Mary", the spiritual heaven is iden- grims. On the rocks of Meteora, portant cities of Macedonia, was Soumela. Pilgrims visit the founded by Alexius I Comnenus in ing around for religious or sight- tified to the indescribable natural which are made of mud, granite founded in 437 B.C. bye General Monastery in order to pay homage 1088. The icon of the Virgin Mary seeing reasons, can admire won- beauty. For centuries the monks and firestone and have a geological Agnon, son of Nikias and enjoyed a to the miraculous icon which was rests in the monastery's katholicon. derful spots on the islands as well have led their monastic life in the history of 60 million years, has great heyday in the times of Phillip carried from the Monastery on On display in the vestry there are as on the mainland, in places of twenty big monasteries, in the con- been developed one of the most sig- II, King of Macedonia. Melas Mountain (Black Sea).. It is numerous ecclesiastical relics such worship, such as monasteries and vents, in the retreats and in the her- nificant movements of asceticism in Apollonia was built on the south said that the icon was carved on as sigils, gospel books, manu- churches. mitages. The Mount Ahtos (height the history of the Orthodox reli- shore of Lake Volvi in 432 B.C. by wood by Lucas the Evangelist and scripts, canonical vestments. Apart from the religious sites, 2.033 m.), in full blossom and im- gion. colonists from Chalkis in . was found in Athens, Monastery of Panagia Archange- every year, thousands of tourists posing, emerges with dignity from The absolute silence, the over- Near the Northern side of the an- Monastery of Agios Nikolaos of liotissa, Thrace: The monastery is visit the Byzantine and post Byzan- the Northern . whelming rocks, the , the cient Temple of God Apollo there Philanthropenoi, : One of the situated in a forested area of tine works of Art, the , the The visitor has the unique caves and the cavities inspire visi- was the "Bema of Paul the Apostle" most significant religious monu- Rodopi, near Xanthi. It was found- wall paintings and thousands of chance to experience a different tors with the sense of contact with and the waters that ran from a ments in Greece is the Monastery of ed in the 14th c and is dedicated to

Monastery of Aghios Panteleimon (Aghio Oros - Mount Athos)

Monastery of Panaghia Chozoviotissa (Amorgos) THE NATIONAL HERALD, SEPTEMBER 26, 2009 GREEK TOURISM 2009 3 the Assumption of the Virgin Mary the 11th c: The monastery's exquis- part of the city. It was eventually re- (Koimisis tes Theotokou). During itely designed cross-in-square, oc- stored and opened its doors for ser- the times of Turkish Occupation it tagon katholikon is lavishly deco- vices in 1948. was the cultural hub and refuge of rated. Visitors entering its interior Panagia Paregoritissa, Epirus: It Christians in the area. It was heavi- are met by a wealth of splendid mo- is an imposing Byzantine church ly damaged by the 1829 cata- saics: they are unique samples of dedicated to the Annunciation of strophic earthquake but the contri- Byzantium's classical period in art the Virgin Mary (Evangelismos tis butions of Xanthi's economically (Middle Byzantine Period) which Theotokou). It was built at the end robust tobacco merchants helped was inspired by classical idealism. of the 13th c by Nicephorus I Com- towards the monastery's restora- The Monastery of Daphni is among nenus Ducas, ruler of Epirus. Lav- tion. Among the religious treasures those Greek heritage monuments ishly decorated, the church is built still at the monastery there is the that have been included in UN- in the unique Byzantine octagon, icon of Panagia Odegetria (15th c), ESCO's World Heritage List. cross-in-square architectural style, the despotic icons depicting Jesus eloquent witness to the economic Christ High Priest and the Virgin DISCOVER PATMOS and cultural prominence of the Mary, Mother of Christ (16th-17th THE ISLAND OF APOCALYPSE at the time. c), the resident icon of the Virgin The small island of Patmos, part The basilica's central , which Mary Archangel iotissa (Our Lady of the islands, has a bears a magnificent Christ Pan- of Archangels). 2.500 long history. The first histori- tokrator , is famous for the Nea Moni (New Monastery) of cal reference to Patmos was attrib- ingenuous method used in its struc- Chios, N.E. Aegean: Chios' most uted to Thucydides who described tural support. significant religious monument it as a rocky island. The Church of Evangelistria, was founded in the middle of the Since 95 A.D. Patmos has been a Central Greece: Amfissa's metro- 11th c by Byzantine emperor Con- landmark in the history of Chris- politan church is dedicated to the stantine IX Monomachos. The tianity, Theology and History. John Annunciation of the Virgin Mary. It Monastery of Aghia Varvara Rousanou (Meteora) Monastery's katholikon is a master- the Apostle, the beloved student of is a 19th c structure where the old ful sample of the octagon architec- Christ who lived in Ephesus at that harmoniously blends with the new. tural type common at the islands. It time, has been exiled to Patmos, a It follows the Byzantine style of ar- is elaborately decorated in the inte- place of inspiration and communi- chitecture and is renowned for its rior with trompe I'oeil marble fin- cation with God, where he would splendid religious paintings which ishes, mosaics, and precious mate- write down the words of the Cre- is the work of eminent Greek rials which indicate the care lav- ator about the Last Judgement. painter Spyros Papaloukas. ished on the monastery by the em- The Apostle had the honour to , Peloponnese: On the peror. The is in- be an eyewitness of the life and the slopes of Mount Taygetos, Mystras, cluded in UNESCO's World Her- Holy Words of Jesus and he wrote city of castles or "Byzantine Pom- itage List. his Apocalypse in a cave, a place peii", has defied the ravages of Monastery of Taxiarch visited even nowadays by thou- time. Seat of the Despotate of Archangel , Panormitis, Do- sands of pilgrims who wish to pray Moreas since the 14th c, Mystras decanese: The Monastery of and meditate. became the cradle of cultural re- Archangel Michael nestles in a The island of the Apocalypse is a naissance in the Late-Byzantine pe- grove of olive trees, firs, and cy- reference point for all Christians to- riod. The religious monuments presses on the Gulf of Panormos, day. The Monastery of John the erected around the palace of the . It is a major pilgrimage site Evangelist and the Cave of the Paleologus family are numerous of Greece. It was founded during Apocalypse, where Saint John was and incomparable: To name but a the Frankish Occupation (1309- inspired, constitute one of the most few: Agios Dimitrios (Metropolis - 1522) and was rebuilt in 1783 after important centres of monastic life 13th/14th c); Agii Theodori (13th the extensive damage it sustained for the Orthodox world. c); Panagia Odegetria (14th c); in mid-18th c. During the Greek The wall paintings of the Agia Sofia (mid-14th c); and the War of Independence, the Monastery and the Cave convey to Monasteries of Perivleptos (14th monastery supported the cause the believers the message of Reve- c), Evangelistria (15th c), and Pan- with money and supplies and en- lations, the dedication to God and tanassa (15th c). In 1990, Mystras gaged in educational activities the sacrifice of John the Apostle. was included in UNESCO's World throughout the 19th c. The In the library of the Monastery Heritage List of cultural monu- monastery's 1783 katholikon is lav- you can find: ments. Panagia of Tinos, : The Church of Panagia Evangelistria on the island of Tinos is the most pop- (Patmos) ular pilgrimage destination in Greece. Made of white marble in 1823, the Church of Megalochari (Our Lady of Supreme Grace) is the epicenter of the annual pilgrimage that takes place on August 15, the day when the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (Koimisis tes Theotok- ou) is celebrated by Christian Or- thodoxy. The Icon of the Annuncia- tion of the Virgin Mary (Evangelis- mos tes Theotokou) was discov- ered after Agia Pelagia, a nun, had had a vision about the location of the icon. Hundreds of votive offer- ings, all dedication of the faithfull to the Virgin Mary of Tinos, adorn the interior of the church. Church of Saints Constantine & Helen, Thessaly: Built in a scenic location, the Church of Saints Con- stantine & Helen is situated literal- ly by the seafront of the city of Vo- los. It was built in 1933 by Aris- totelis Zachos, one of Greece's most eminent architects. The church's ar- chitecture successfully combines the traditional basilica elements Church of Panagia Evangelistria (Tinos) with its austere stone surfaces. The structure of the church blends har- moniously with the seascape and has become a point of reference for the city's numerous visitors. Agios Dionysios, : The magnificent basilica of Agios Dionysios in vividly re- tral and oldest aisle is dedicated to the edifice, with a fifth, massive Theotokou (Athens Cathedral): The minds one of Venice's San Marco the Virgin Mary; the northern and dome in their midst. cathedral of Athens is situated in the Cathedral as it rises in immaculate- southern ones that were built later Evangelismos tis Theotokou, capital's historical center on ly white splendor next to its 40-me- are dedicated to Agios Antonios Dodecanese: The metropolitan Mitropoleos Street. It is dedicated to The Sanctuary of the Great Gods (Samothrace) ter high belfry. The Saint's reli- and Agia Anna, respectively. church of the Annunciation of the the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary quary, indestructible and emanat- Agios Therapon, N.E. Aegean: Virgin Mary is situated in the area and is a domed, three-aisled basilica ing myrrh, came from the Holy The church of Agios Therapon of Mandraki in Rhodes. It was built built in 1842-1862. It became one Monastery of Strofades and is pre- (1850) with its characteristic mas- in 1925 by the Italians who drew the first recorded edifices of the city served within the church. It is sive dome is identified with the is- from the plans of an earlier church when the latter was designated as worth seeing the elaborately land of Mytilini and attracts visitors dedicated to Agios loannis and de- the seat of the Greek state. The orig- carved iconostasis and the church's in terms of both religion and archi- stroyed in an explosion. Its archi- inal architectural plans were drawn ishly decorated by frescoes painted * The "Purple Codex" of the 6th awe-inspiring icons. tecture. It is the work of Argyris tecture brings together Gothic and by Theofilus Hansen but were later by the brothers Karakostis. Its century A.D.: it is constituted by 33 Church of Panagia Kera, : Adalis, a native son of Romanesque elements. The converted and the basilica was even- wood-carved iconostasis holds the purple leaves of Fine parchment. It The church of Panagia Kera (Our (Mytilini), who had been a student church's interior is decorated with tually built after the drawings of D. miraculous, silver-plated icon of is written with silver writing and Lady) is situated near the village of the eminent architects of the Neo-byzantine frescoes painted by Zezos which followed the "Greco- Taxiarch Archangel Michael, which includes extracts from the Gospel in Lassithi and constitutes time, Ziller and Hansen. The renowned hagiographer Fotis Kon- Byzantine" style. Works on the draws thousands of pilgrims every of Saint Mark. one of the most significant religious church's architecture shows signifi- toglou. The church also features a church were completed under the year. * There are more than 1000 monuments of Crete. It is a 13th c, cant neo-gothic influences al- chapel lavishly decorated with supervision of architects F. Monastery of Panagia Akrotiri- manuscripts of theological content: domed, three-aisled, barrel-vaulted though it does belong to the tradi- sculptures: it was intended for the Boulanger and P. Kalkos. After suc- ani Toplou: One of the most historic Gospels, psalters, benedictionals church. Its architectural and reli- tional Byzantine style of domed, interment of the sarcophagi con- cessive style changes, the church has monasteries in Crete is that of and manuscripts of the Fathers of gious particularity is that each one cross-in-square churches. The roof taining the remains of the Grand emerged as a blend of Byzantine tra- Panagia Akrotiriani which owes its the Church, of Saint Vasilios, of of its three aisles is dedicated to a is a breathtaking masterpiece: Four Masters of the Knights Templars. dition and European neoclassical el- name to its geographical position Saint and of different religious figure: the cen- small form a wreath around The Church of Evangelismos tis ements. on the eastern shores of Crete. It Evangelist John the Theologian. was founded in the 14th c and has * The golden stamps of the been restored as many times as it Byzantine Emperors and the docu- has been damaged. During the ments sent by the Ecumenical Patri- Venetian Occupation the archs to the Monastery. monastery of Panagia Akrotiriani became a major cultural hub and DISCOVER THE CHURCHES contributed to the Cretan renais- Panagia Kosmosoteira, Thrace: sance. The Toplou monastic com- The church of Panagia Kos- plex combines diverse Byzantine mosoteira (Our Lady, Saviour of the and western monastic architectural World) and parts of the fortified en- elements. Both the aisleless, barrel- closure that once surrounded the vaulted katholikon with its gabled monastery by the same name are fanade and the splendidly ornate situated in the small town of Feres, belfry bear pronounced renais- Evros. The monastic complex was sance influences. The monastery's established in 1151/2 by Sebas- Museum is noteworthy housing an tokrator (Isaakios) Com- extensive collection of icons, nenus, third son of Alexius I Com- canonical vestments, ecclesiastical nenus. The church is a two-pilaster, vessels, rare manuscripts, and cop- domed, cross-in-square edifice with per engravings. strong influences from Constan- Monastery of Panagia Vlacher- tinople. The wall frescoes are ex- non, Ionian Islands: This is one of pressed dramatically depicting a the most impressive sites on . celestial world seen through the The monastery is built on an islet eyes of ascetic ideals. joined to the mainland by a cen- Church of Agios Dimitrios, Thes- turies old promotory. From the saloniki: This magnificent church is Monastery of Panagia Vlachernon dedicated to 's patron leave boats that go to the famous saint and was built on the site Pontikonissi (Mouse island), a where saint Dimitrios underwent small vendurous island, with a 13th his trials and tribulations. It is a sig- c. church, that has inspired many nificant 5th c AD monument built artists in the world. as a three-aisled basilica. It is im- Monastery of Daphni, Athens: pressively and richly decorated by The Monastery of Koimisis tis Byzantine sculptures and paintings Theotokou (Assumption of the Vir- (mosaics, wall frescoes, trompe Monastery of Panagia Vlachernon (Corfu) gin Mary) in Daphni constitutes I'oeil marble finishes, and one of the most significant Greek wreathed pilasters) .The church religious monuments. The monas- was ravaged by the great fire of tic complex dates back to the end of 1917 which also destroyed a large 4 GREEK TOURISM 2009 THE NATIONAL HERALD, SEPTEMBER 26, 2009 THE NATIONAL HERALD, SEPTEMBER 26, 2009 GREEK TOURISM 2009 5 6 GREEK TOURISM 2009 THE NATIONAL HERALD, SEPTEMBER 26, 2009

TOURING Discover The Beauty

Touring Greece is a unique journey full of ad- ing precious biotopes and national eco-parks, as seagulls, the gurgle of ice-cold water from the ventures and knowledge. A road where the well as traditional settlements that conceal a wellsprings of a mountain village and the odour quintessence of adventure lies within the explo- long-lived history and a profound continuation of home-made, traditional pies stimulate all ration, where the evergreen vista of imposing of old greek morals and customs. senses. mountains blends harmonically with the vast, Vivid colours and breathtaking images ac- Touring Greece from North to South, mile- deep blue seas, to portray the versatile mosaic, company every journey, whilst sounds and fra- stones are set by emotion-stirring locations, Greece. grances conveying Greece, stay in the memory thrilling landscapes and tranquil ecosystems, Challenges vary. Ascending on green moun- for ever... How can one resist the magic of a rendering the entire trip unforgettable. Modern tains, exploring the sublime caves, sailing the crimson sun-setting sky, when the sun dives into Greece invites travellers to challenge themselves historic greek seas with their friendly harbors the emerald sea or the mysterious hazy atmos- and experience all it has to offer with a single and the indigo beaches, descending frozen phere that dominates at sunrise on a steep goal in mind: tour around each and every site rivers... Even greater knowledge is gained frozen greek mountain peak? The scent of pine- and fall in love with its unmatched natural beau- through encountering regional fauna and visit- trees, olives and oaks, the upstanding flying of ty... Discover MACEDONIA Discover PELOPONNESE

Picturesque scenery, wild nature, from the hectic urban lifestyle. A per- headsprings of the Xino Nero village, Argolida, Korinthia, Ahaia, Ilia, the wonderful Limnes cave and the "Chestnut Feast", that takes place unpaved routes and graphic villages fect example is the mountain-village never fails to amaze visitors. Messinia, Lakonia, Arkadia... Each Foloi forest. every October at Kastanitsa village, set the scene as one approaches the Nympheo, where distinctive architec- Bird-spotting at the Prespes lake place, a different history... Heading West, the Kyllini spas are visitors can experience local mores Macedonia region. A typical greek ture blends with natural splendour. district, travellers find the petite is- Departing from the eastern Pelo- a place of sheer relaxation and seren- and customs in their very essence. coastline along with lakes, moun- In Macedonia, numerous organi- land of Agios Ahilios, where the small ponnese and terminating at the ity, while kayak and rafting enthusi- Crossing the breathtaking Tayge- tains, rivers and forests hosting a ver- zations with a sense of high environ- church confers an utter ritualistic at- mountains of Arkadia, the traveller is asts can discover the inner magnifi- tos mountain, passing through the satile flora and fauna altogether con- mental responsibility are dedicated mosphere. At , visitors will accompanied by recollections from cence of the gorge at Alfios river. castles of Mystras, one stares at the stitute the well-preserved ecosystem to protect local wildlife and conserve enjoy the local delicacies gazing at the Ancient Theater of Epidavros, the The journey, 'overflowed' with col- scenery, takes note of all nature's of Macedonia. the animals' natural habitat. the lake, which remains magical all breath-taking and imposing ors and sounds, carries on at Loussios sounds and discovers its very secrets. Touring begins from Nestos river, For those who prefer alternative year round. Revived local customs, castle and the monuments at the his- river, where the plateau, the water- Hiking on precipitous paths, the trav- whose crystal clear waters run ways of touring, there is a variety of like the ancient masquerade custom torical Ancient Olympia, the birth- falls along with the imposing canyon, eller meets the mountain region of through deep valleys and gorges, ski resorts at the mountains Kaimakt- "Ragoutsaria", along with the mod- place of the Olympic Games. the stone bridges and the green Mani, while the Dyros cave leads to while its magical aquatic reserve salan, Vassilitsa, Vermio and Verno ern music festival "River Party", con- The natural surroundings around coasts arouse the interest of all tour- the gorge of Larnaka, where rare awaits to be discovered. All visitors that can be combined with sightsee- stitute only a tiny portion of the di- the Dassios lake, as well as the arche- ing aficionados. The ancient baths of species of butterflies and remains of are seduced by the sound of absolute ing routes at the lake of Kerkini or the verse cultural character of the town. ologically and ecologically-intriguing Asklepius seduce all hiking fans. aged water-mills can be found. The silence, interrupted only by the be- Edessa waterfalls. Eco-tourists can al- The 'smaragdine' island of Thas- Feneos mountain are ideal for out- Going South, where the Perithorio contrasting scenery transfers the witching birds' singing. so find themselves very close to rural sos charms the traveller with the door activities. forest and the Neda gorge astonish traveller at the marvellous beaches of Travelling around, visitors get and agricultural areas and familiar- white sand and the pine trees that At the city of Patra, one can enjoy visitors, greek nature becomes a true Elafonissos. caught up by the constantly alternat- ize themselves or even participate in surround its magnificent beaches. the vivacious carnival, an integral challenge, but also delight. Final destination is the island of ing view. Peaceful lakes interchanged the production of the unique local The forests of the inland are ideal for part of the region's festive atmos- At the heart of Peloponnese, goddess Aphrodite, where gorges, by steep mountains and small rural products, like the fine wines and the the nature lovers and for those who phere. Moving further, the traveller stands the Menalo mount, where vir- caves and creeks harmonically merge communities spreading throughout delicious varieties of cheese. Addi- wish to explore the mountain-ranges can experience challenging off-road gin forests provide a safe haven to en- with beaches and indigo waters. Ex- the area constitute a completely se- tionally, the exclusive naturally sour- that lead to picturesque alpine vil- 4x4 expeditions, the snowy moun- demic wildlife. From the traditional actly there, the breathtaking land- cluded setting, extremely distant flavoured water stemming from the lages. taintops at the ski resort of , products of Vytina village to the scape of is formed. Discover THRACE Discover THESSALY

Thrace is a place of history, with A wish that time would stand still the natural beauty of historic places, "From the entire world, the best mountain tops are only a breath houses, clearly revealing the rustic exceptional ecosystems and virgin is what comes to mind after a visit at where one can experience the har- land is the thessalic land...". Many away from sandy beaches. Inhabited origin of the region, while closely lies forests, a meeting point between the village of Livaditis, with its well monic coexistence of East and West, things may have changed from the by rare bird and mammal species, the Aspropotamos river area, includ- western lifestyle and oriental culture. known waterfalls. Continuing the by gazing at monumental Orthodox time when the Oracle of was Olympus, Greece's highest moun- ing eight breathtaking forests. The Local hospitality mesmerizes visitors, tour to Thrace, numerous choices are churches close to Muslim establish- giving out this divination, however, tain, home of the ancient Greek gods, local myth has it that visitors at while fauna and flora fascinates... offered; hiking on the paths of Haido ments. Touring around Thrace, visi- the land of Centaurs and home of is filled with colours and emotions. Neraidohori (village of fairies) may The natural reserves of Thrace are National Park, where the oak-tree tors find themselves at the Pomako- Asklepius still fascinates visitors with Visiting the villages of Thessaly actually see fairies dancing in the among the most significant in forest is aged more than 200 years, horia district, where they can enjoy its extraordinary beauty. stimulates all senses, from preserved woods at night. The rippling of the Greece. It is here, within the ultimate climbing Balkan's second tallest wa- going through the little stores of tra- Thessaly outstandingly combines settlements to the outfalls of Pinios river is the only distraction, when dominance of nature, within the crys- terfalls, with over 40 metres of height ditional art and get acquainted with lush flora and wonderful beaches, river, which come across the stun- one stares at the magnificent sur- tal-lake waters and the 'hopeful' and residing at the forest village of the friendly locals. while offering versatile alternative ning valley of Tembi and host the roundings at the bridge of Pyrra. green of the forests, where the feast Erymanthos, an ideal base for moun- At the island of Samothraki, the tourism infrastructure. Moreover, beautiful flamingo birds. The land- The journey is reaching a finale, of colours leads through the 'walk of tain hiking, 4x4 off-road driving and medieval chateaus, the water- and the thessalic mountains fulfil every mark of the Trikala district is the when suddenly visitors are faced life'. The area of Thrace hosts one of trekking. Amid lakes, rivers, fields oil-mills, the streaming waterfalls expectation; they offer ideal loca- colossal rock of Meteora, a natural with the stunning Agrafa mountain the country's most varied bird-fauna. and forests emerges the seaside and and (Moon), the tallest tions for extreme-game aficionados, monument, imposingly standing range, while memories from the re- Exploration at Dadia forest and simultaneously lakeside Porto Lagos mountain in the Aegean Sea, set a but one can also enjoy an invigorat- there for millions of years. It is there, gion's biotopes and the vast blue of Vistonida lake, distinctively protect- village. It is at the striking church of scene by far different from urban ing walk through apple-trees, maple- where the earth virtually touches the Plastira lake come to mind. ed biotopes of the region, as well as Agios Nikolaos, located in the middle style. trees and firs. sky and the view from the hospitable One wonders what would be to- the Evros river estuary take the mind of the lagoon, where visitors become Tasteful oriental sweets are worth Traditional villages spread across monasteries speaks directly to visi- day's divination from the Delphi ora- on a journey, with sole companion one with the thousands of birds fly- taking home after saying goodbye to almighty green forests gazing at the tors' hearts. cle... He, who decides the tour to the inhabitants of the area, the hun- ing around them. Thrace, as they will ideally accompa- Aegean Sea, constitute Pelion one of The journey moves on through Thessaly, definitely shall find out for dreds of rare bird species there. Thrace's dreamy locations elevate ny nostalgic memories generated. the very few areas where snowy stone-built alleys and traditional himself... Discover CENTRAL GREECE & EVIA Discover EPIRUS

Traditional coffee-shops at pic- lage, where the stone-built houses make the visit unforgettable. The Epirus is an adventure of experi- the region, such as Greece's second enced. turesque squares, home-made delica- with their colorful doors and win- countless shores with the indi- ences and emotions. longest river, Aheloos, and the 'ad- Visitors are equally over- cies, modern ski resorts, beaches , dows the scenery. Trav- go waters refresh visitors. Approaching the northwestern venturous' Arahthos, and whelmed by the scenery at the loan- mysterious villages, trails leading to ellers stand at awe in front of the an- Greece's 2nd largest island, Evia, part of Greece, Epirus 'stands up' to Voidomatis, ideal destinations for nina lake. Also called "Pamvotis" all sorts of off-road activities, explo- cient monuments located at Delphi is full of pretty sights. From the im- expectations. The imposing all rafting and kayaking aficiona- (the all-feeding), the lake stands ration of caves and forests... Central the "Center of Earth", as referred to pressive Drakospita, the megalithic Tzoumerka mountains, among the dos. Human intervention lies solely calm, though sometimes frozen Greece surprises all visitors with the by ancient Greeks. Visitors test them- constructions aged over 4.500 years few areas not submitting to technol- in the stone bridges - true works of during winter and is still considered numerous delights it offers. selves at the challenging ski resort of at Ohi mount, to the wildlife habitats ogy, along with , the sec- art - spread all over the area. Most as the center of attraction of the re- Touring starts from the Fthiotida Parnassos mount, residing eventually and traditional fishing-villages, trav- ond highest greek mountain, and famous is the bridge of Plaka, with a gion. It is believed to be firstly in- prefecture. First stop Pavliani; a vil- at Arahova. ellers enjoy the tour. The renowned the peak of Grammes mount set the span of 40 metres and height of 20 habited by man 21.000 years ago. lage equally exciting all year round. With the Acropolis as its eternal healing spas of Aedipsos, the mythi- genuinely highland scenery. Firs metres, considered among the most Still, it is the combination of pic- In close proximity, Megali Kapsi and landmark, Athens is the ideal desti- cal beaches with the dense pines lag- climb up the steep rocks, reaching difficult single-arch bridges to turesque landscapes and cultural the regional forest-village, where the nation both for exploration, as well ging behind the sea and the seaside the naked alpine zone, while visi- build. activities that renders Epirus a wooden houses with their big fire- as entertainment. Enjoy a walk taverns as well, constitute the coast- tors tour in high altitude within the Truly outstanding, the Zagoro- unique destination. Byzantine places host visitors. There, one can through the streets of Plaka, a coffee- line of Evia, which combines it all... intact nature at the outstanding for- horia district consists of 46 villages churches and folklore museums co- enjoy mountain hiking, archery and break at Mikrolimano at with Close to Athens, the traveller est village Kedros. located throughout the mountains. exist with turbulent rivers ideal for flying-fox. At the historic village of its sea-view and nightlife with live meets the island complex of the Sa- Amid the various national eco- Each exquisite village can serve as a rafting, along with smooth slopes Mavrilo, the centennial platan-trees greek music. For those willing to es- ronikos Gulf, islands with significant parks, Valia Calda (Warm Valley), starting point for expeditions to ex- perfect for paragliding, whilst tenderly embrace the travellers. cape the frenetic city vibe, a trip to history and tradition. The magnifi- established in 1966 aiming at the plore the fascinating nature. In everyone can get acquainted or Continuing the journey towards the mountains and seas of Attica cent beaches, the picturesque villages protection of provincial wildlife, of- close proximity visitors find Vikos even participate in agricultural ac- the Fokida region, visitors have the hides many surprises. Parnitha and the ancient monuments com- fers an exceptional touring experi- canyon, the second deepest canyon tivities. Traditional customs authen- chance to experience Iti, one of the mount and its organized refuge, pose the charming landscape of ence. in the world, bearing an admirable tically revived, in addition to local most stunning greek mountains. Rest along with Kitheronas and the many Salamina, , Angistri, , The wild mountain beauty is em- ecosystem of 1.700 plants and 182 hospitality, make Epirus simply un- awaits at the seaside of Galaxidi vil- alternative tourist activities it offers, and . phasized by the numerous rivers of animals, awaiting to be experi- forgettable. Discover AEGEAN SEA Discover

Dating back to ancient greek continues in beautiful Samos, the is- houses and numerous chapels, trans- The landscape is lush green, the sea-caves and footpaths set the scene Kefalonia. Picturesque villages, fer- mythology, the adventures of land of Pythagoras, where travellers fer travellers to a different era. The waters deep blue, the local cuisine where, according to ancient mythol- tile lands, steep rocks and a magical Thesseus and his father, king Aegeus, can enjoy endless walks around the journey continues at Tinos with the delicious. Locals turn their every ogy, and Amphitriti fell in coastline shape the island's image, appointed the name to the most im- dense flora and meet the rich tradi- traditional pigeon-houses, leading to word to song, their every move to love. while the Aenos national park, host- portant greek sea. The Aegean Sea is tion of the island. After a stop at the , where visitors can taste the dance. The Ionian Sea's natural The journey continues in Lefka- ing a rare and unique in Europe characterized by sun-drenched is- charming island of Fournoi, the jour- Arsenikos cheese, produced only at splendour seems impervious to time. da, the 'mainlander island', which is species of black fir, never fails to fas- lands, which combine natural beauty ney continues at Ikaria, which is an the island's mountain villages. At The "Ionian Queen", Corfu, evi- easily accessible by car. Pine-forests cinate visitors. and monuments proclaiming their ideal escape for those who seek a they will be fascinated by the dently influenced by Venetians, of- and olive groves, streaming water- From the crystal waters of south long-standing history. serene island that can offer a great picturesque port and the known tem- fers sublime mountain vegetation falls and fountains of gargling water Ionian Sea emerges the island of Za- The journey in the islands of variety of activities. ple of Panagia Ekatontapyliani. Visit- coming in astounding contradiction tempt all hikers. The tour is complete kynthos, the island of serenade and northeastern Aegean starts from the Touring the island com- ing Santorini's volcano and swim- with its dazzling seas. Enjoying the only after tasting the fish delicacies operetta, where emotions are island of Limnos with the beautiful plex conceals countless surprises, ming at ' beaches ideally famous home-made pastitsada dish bourdeto, cod bianco and maridopi- dressed in notes. The "Flower of Lev- biotopes and goes on at Lesvos and such as golden beaches, impressive complete the book of memories. and sipping the renowned Koum ta (tiddler-pie). anter" (Eastern Blossom) has moun- its exceptional fossil-forest. At Hios, a caves and traditional monasteries, At the Dodecanese complex one Kouat liqueur, visitors wander the Further towards the South, one tain regions idyllically extending to land that nature has endowed in a while it hosts one of the most protect- can relive romantic moments of the kantounia (alleys), leading to forts finds the birthplace of Odysseus, the seashores. Visitors are captivated generous and magical way with the ed aquatic parks, whose sole purpose past in Rhodes, the 'island of knights', and mansions, places of historic de- . On top ofAetos (eagle) by the aquatic park of Laganas privilege of mastiha's worldwide is to protect an endangered species of explore Kos, birthplace of Hip- cision-making. mount visitors have the chance to ex- beach, which is inhabited by a uniqueness, travellers can experience seal (Monachus monachus). pocrates, the father of medicine, Heading South, and An- plore the ancient citadel called "The mediterranean species of sea turtle the beneficial effects of the mastiha At daybreak, the ancient monu- wander in the mysterious streets of tipaxi, truly green oases within the Palace of Odysseus", while the sur- (Caretta caretta), one of the rarest products, while close by they find ments in bestow a bewitching Patmos under the imposing vast blue of the Ionian Sea, bewitch rounding villages fill the background animals. refuge at a small but picturesque, atmosphere, whereas the alleys of monastery, ending his journey at the visitors through their versatile mor- with scents and colours. The tour in the Ionian Sea's na- worth-visiting island, . The tour the cycladic islands, with the white border land of Kastelorizo. phology. Calm ports and harbours, One breath away is our next stop, ture rejuvenates and becalms...

tors to a 'tropical dimension'. Climb- Kamares and Ilithyia. The Asterous- al. Advancing, visitors find re- ing Idi mount brings forward won- sia mountains indulge all visitors gion, the point where three conti- Discover CRETE derful sights, whilst the Nida plateau who, after having crossed the nents intersect. Exactly opposite, the is a perfect base for surprising your- canyons and doughs and having met travellers meet the Dionysades is- On the (White Moun- where the flowstones' shapes resem- Touring continues at the Rethym- self while discovering the cave of the local aquatic world, end up at tra- lands, which constitute beautiful tains) at Hania district, nature lovers ble a numb bear, never fails to fasci- no district, where the Venetian fort, Idaeo Andro and the Voriziano gorge. ditional taverns by the sea. biotopes. For visitors touring Chryssi experience the entirety of beauty. Vis- nate visitors. The prefecture of Hania the Sfendoni cavern and the Koxare Moving towards the center of the The journey concludes on the isle, the setting of sapphire waters iting the national park of the Samaria also includes island, which is gorge harmonically combine man- island at Iraklio district, the myths re- eastern coast of Crete at dis- next to the golden sand under the canyon is astonishing. Mountain hik- opposite of the south-western coast- made and nature's creations. The lated to the Kingdom of Knossos are trict. The contrast between the forests is not Utopian. Reaching the ers and climbers find themselves be- line of Crete. Gavdos is a beautiful Kourtaliotis river comes across the brought to life, while the humanlike snowy mountain-peaks and the exot- gorge of Ha with its petite lakes and witched by the rocky landscape. A small lowland island with natural captivating Preveli region, where Giouhta mount and the gorgeous ic forest of Vai, where a unique range challenging canyon next to the cave stop at the cave of Arkoudiotissa, beaches and wonderful shores. palm-trees and waterfalls take visi- beaches are merged with the caves of of palm-trees flourishes, is exception- of Diktaeo Andro. THE NATIONAL HERALD, SEPTEMBER 26, 2009 GREEK TOURISM 2009 7 8 GREEK TOURISM 2009 THE NATIONAL HERALD, SEPTEMBER 26, 2009