Kaisariani Monastery

 

Tucked away in the valley on the western slopes of Mt. Hymettus is the Kaisariani Monastery.  It was a lovely day and a quiet respite from the busy Athens noise.  This is a Medieval monastery built over a Christian basilica. 

Olive Press

The monks supported themselves with products from beehives, grapes and olives. 

The church and its narthex are decorated with frescoes, dating from the Ottoman period. The wealthy Benizelos family subsidized the frescoes, painted in 1682 by Ioannis Ypatos, from the Peloponnese, according to the inscription on the western wall. 

They were beautiful.  

Fountain outside the monastery

I am always amazed at how they got water and irrigation throughout the complex. 

The Cooking and Eating area for the monks

It was a nice change from the crowds visiting the Parthenon and surrounding areas.  We were surrounded by school children which has been the norm during the week when school is in session.  

We have some other fun news: On 1 July 2022 Greece and Cyprus will join with Bulgaria to become the Bulgaria - Greece Mission based in Bulgaria led by President and Sister Nelson from the USA. Macedonia, Kosovo and Albania will form one mission based in Tirana - the Tirana Albania Mission led by President and Sister Auras from Germany.

There is always change. Change that you don't see coming but it comes anyway.

"To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often." Winston Churchill

“Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.”  John Maxwell