Mt.Athos is the only self-governing part of the Greek state, administered by the Holy Community, consisting of representatives of the 20 monasteries and based in Karyes. The peninsula, the easternmost "leg" of the largerChalkidikipeninsula, protrudes 50 kilometresinto theAegean Seaat a width of between 7 and 12 kilometres and covers an area of 335.6 square kilometres.
The monasteries themselves are true masterpieces of traditional Macedonian and Byzantine architecture. Many of them boast superb frescoes, the work of famous religious artists. Among the treasures of Mt. Athos there are numerous icons, many of them believed to have miracle-working powers and not to be made by human hand.Best-known among them are the Aksion Esti at the Protato, the Panayia Portaitissa at the Iviron Monastery, the Panayia Odigitria at the Hiliandarioy and the Panayia Koukouzelissa at the Megistis Lavras.
The monasteries are also home to a treasure trove of other artefacts, including miniatures, books, codices, and manuscripts in the monastery libraries.
The visit of the site from the land is restricted and special entrance permit are required moreover, only man are allowed on the site. Therefore the whole Mountwith its amazing monasteries will be admired from the sea during a 3 hours boat trip so no restriction on gender can be applied.
It takes many visits fully to appreciate the wonders of Mt.Athos: to roam its paths, savouring the peace and beauty of the landscape, visiting the many monasteries, sketes and hermits’ retreats. To listen to the sound of the simantra, the boards that are struck to call the monks to prayer; to hear the divine voices of the chanting monks, to attend the services, to talk with the elders and the younger monks, with their great store of learning, to share in the feasts of the holy calendar, to pay homage before the miracle-working icons… experience the miracle of the Orthodox faith.
The excursion includes cruise around the peninsula
and lasts almost 3 hours.
LUNCH-REST-SWIMMING AT XENIA OURANOUPOLIS HOTEL
XENIA OURANOUPOLIS HOTEL, is located just 2 minutes from the town of OURANOUPOLIS, built on the most beautiful beach of the area, with an exceptional view towards Mount Athos, the tower of OURANOUPOLIS and the Amoliani island.
Xenia OURANOUPOLIS, is one of the 10 Greek hotels characterized as “right on the waterfront”. XENIA OURANOUPOLIS has got theGREEN KEY, European Eco Label and is also awarded with the Blue Flag.
SHORT BUS STOP
Stagira is the birthplace of philosopher Aristotle located 40km away from Ouranoupolis.
In this beautiful mountainous village, it is situated Aristotle’s Park with a view to Ierissos bay. The park where lies Aristotle’s statue for years is equipped with interactive instruments (solar clock, telescopes, parabolic reflectors, lens, compass, pentaphone, optical disks, pendulum, water turbine). These instruments produce natural phenomena which are mentioned in the work “Physics” of the great teacher. From the inauguration’s park, four years ago, it constitutes the most popular destination for individual tourists and school groups, because combines recreation and education.
Depending on the weather visitors can be prepared for sea swimming
Detailed program will be announced after the required (minimum) participations are completed.