|
Welcome back to the Hellenic Dance Festival 2009 Odyssey Trip. It was another long day for the group, yet one mostly spent inside of the bus. After leaving Agrinion an hour late, we hit the road for Delphi. Most of our travelers spent the three and a half hour bus ride sleeping. We dismissed the bus drive upon our arrival to Delphi’s Archaeological Site and Museum. Our tour guide Georgia led us throughout the grounds and explained the importance of each monument. The centerpiece of the ancient ruins is the Sanctuary of Delphi, dedicated to Apollo, circa 8th century BC. This archaic temple was surrounded by multiple treasuries, which held the funds of the temple. On a lighter note, the boys from the group wanted to consult the oracle; unfortunately, she was nowhere to be found. Thank you Lord! Those of us who had the strength, and desire, to keep trekking though the mountains visited the Roman theatre and stadium. Our visit to the self-proclaimed ‘center of the world’ provided for perfect photo opportunity.
Right around the corner, we were treated to lunch at Omfalos restaurant in Arachova. With our stomachs full, we loaded back onto the bus for another long journey, a four-hour drive to Volos. As if we hadn’t visited some of the most pristine churches in Orthodoxy already, we paid a visit as our first stop to the Church of the Birth of the Panagia in Volos. The church is in a cave underground; every square inch is covered in Byzantine iconography. Founded by two cousins of St. Paul, Zinaida and Philonila who provided health care for the poor, this church has a been a beacon for those less fortunate. Father Vasilios and Fr. Alexios explained the miraculous events that have taken place at the church. Furthermore, they were generous enough to give each of us an icon of the Theotokos with the Christ Child.
Most of us are familiar with the Metropolis of Atlanta’s Diakonia Center in Salem, SC. Even though we are halfway around the world, we were able to have dinner at the Greek Metropolis’ of Volos’s own Diakonia Center. The delicious feast from the center ended our day perfectly leaving us just enough time to relax at our hotel and a local cafe.
Our trip has been incredible thus far. From long bus rides and delectable meals to gargantuan cathedrals and quaint churches, I’m sure we will leave Greece with the most perfect memories.
 |
.png){kind=small}
.png){kind=small}
Subscribe to this comment's feed