Archive for 'Churches & Religious Buildings in Greece'

  

Thursday, November 4, 2021
Gouverneto Monastery
Those who holiday in Crete will quickly discover that it is truly a paradise anyone who likes to get outside and get active. While the island has a rich history and cultural heritage to dive into, lots of culinary gems to explore, and much more besides, the diverse and incredibly beautiful landscape of the area is truly mind-blowing and ripe with possibilities. Spend days enjoying her wonderful beaches, of course, but make sure to also set aside some time to see the other natural beauties that Crete has to offer. In particular, if you’re looking for a destination where you’ll have plenty of excellent hiking routes surrounded by stunning views to choose from, then a villa in Crete is just the thing as you will find yourself absolutely spoiled for choice. We have mentioned some notable examples in the past including the famous gorge routes of the island (Samariá Gorge, Imbros Gorge, and Richtis Gorge), the breathtaking trails through the White Mountains, the charming coastal walks and trails around the Gramvousa Peninsula, and more. However, if you’re looking for a lovely hike and a visit to a stunning architectural gem steeped in history in Greece combined, then a visit to Gouverneto Monastery will tick all of your boxes in one!     Read More
Posted in: Activities, Architectural Gems, Churches & Religious Buildings, Hiking, Museums & Galleries, Pretty Views, Tourist Attractions

  

Wednesday, December 12, 2018
Silk looms
If you have found a vacation rental in Kalamata and are looking for a truly unique souvenir, then you should head to the Kalograion Monastery. Founded in 1796, this female-only Greek Orthodox monastery is dedicated to Saints Constantine and Helen and is a fascinating institution. Located in the centre of Kalamata, close to the metropolitan church of Ypapanti and under the castle, it has been a local space for charity, a place of refuge during Ottoman occupation, a safe space during German and Italian occupation, and a shelter to those displaced during the Greek Civil War and after the devastating earthquake that took place in the area in 1986.     Read More
Posted in: Churches & Religious Buildings, Curiosities, Local Customs, Must See Attractions, Tourist Attractions

  

Monday, October 1, 2018
If you found a holiday rental in Patras and followed the advice of our previous article to hike the nearby mountain range of Panachaiko, you might have spotted a beautiful dome towering over the rest of the city's skyline. This charming building is the Cathedral of St Andrew in Patras and is a 19th century beauty that is well worth a visit, should you find yourself exploring this incredible city.

A small church was originally erected on site between 1836 and 1843 on the spot where Apostle Andrew died a martyr under architect Lyssandros Kaftantzoglou. Inside the building is Andrew's tomb and his relics were initially housed there too until they were transferred, first to Constantinople and then Rome. However, in the 60s, as a gesture of good will to the people of the city, the saint's skull and finger were returned to his resting place.     Read More
Posted in: Architectural Gems, Churches & Religious Buildings, Curiosities, Must See Attractions, Tourist Attractions

  

Monday, December 18, 2017
Our Lady of Tinos
In 1823, a nun from the Monastery Kehrovouniou, Sister Pelayia, had a vision in which the Mother of God appeared and told her to dig up a miracle-working icon that was buried nearby. The icon was recovered in a field and, as it was brought to light, a hard protective shield, like glass, covered it. The men who removed it from the ground penetrated the shield and everyone who touched it was healed. The Church of Panayia Evangelistria in Tinos is dedicated to this icon and its fame soon preceded it, particularly as the Greek War of Independence heroes Kolokotronis, Miaoulis and Makriyannis were among the first visitors to Tinos to see the sacred image of the Panayia.     Read More
Posted in: Architectural Gems, Churches & Religious Buildings, Legends, Must See Attractions, Tourist Attractions

  

Monday, December 18, 2017
Metéora
Metéora is one of those exceptionally beautiful places in the world that doesn't look as though it is really or really of this world and not some alternate, fantasy universe. Yet, it very much is real and well worth a visit.

Metéora is a formation of immense monolithic naturally-occurring pillars and hill-like huge rounded boulders that dominate an area of Greece near Kalambaka.

Atop these pillars and stone mounds, are a cluster of extraordinary Eastern Orthodox monasteries and the effect is truly breathtaking and rather unbelievable. With the name meaning literally "middle of the sky", "suspended in the air" or "in the heavens above", this astounding complex of monasteries is, rightfully, UNESCO World Heritage Site.     Read More
Posted in: Architectural Gems, Churches & Religious Buildings, Must See Attractions, Pretty Views, Tourist Attractions, Unesco World Heritage Sites