We had the opportunity today to visit two historical gems: a Byzantine monastery more than 1000 years old and ruins at Delphi. The monastery was a surprise visit on our way to Delphi this morning. To be able to see the architecture and artwork in the monastery still intact to this day was quite a treat. Crisp fragrant smells of flowers, mountain air, and incense lingered throughout parts of the still functioning monastery. The courtyard is vast and faces the mountains into a deep valley where you can see for miles. Hard to believe monks still practice there. The picture on the left is taken at the Byzantine monastery right outside the courtyard.
A few miles up the mountain we passed a village to get to Delphi. Delphi was a place to find the Oracle who had a divine connection to the Gods. This all knowing Oracle had strong influences on Greek culture, politics and religion for nearly a millennium. Greeks who thought this to be the center of the Earth would come from miles to ask questions of the Oracle and seek her divine wisdom. It was exciting to finally visit the site that my team had been researching since last year! Jessica and Kelsey were equally thrilled! The picture that you see above is the Temple of Athena at Delphi. In the background you can see the ruins further up the mountain. A picturesque scene in a near perfect spot. Can you imagine what it looked like in its day?
comments:
Brian!!! You are such an amazing writer! It seems like you are having a wonderful time. I can't wait to have you share your stories and photos. Have fun with your adventure!
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