Visit To Holy Monastery Of Archangel Michael In Panormitis
By Helen Grubner. Filed in Uncategorized |
Saturday, 18 June 2022… Initially, I had considered taking a boat trip today, which included a stop at the Monastery. However, I’ve seen enough of crowds spilling off boats to know that’s not my way of doing things and instead took the local bus at 07.30 hours… 30 minutes of zig zagging, up and down mountains, then back down to the seafront.
Situated in a closed in cove with a small beach at one end and a mountainous backdrop, it has an ambiance of solitude… until the daytrippers arrive on large ferries from Rhodes. My early start meant that I beat the crowds and by the time they arrived, I had ensconced myself at the beach… more lovely goats 🐐 for company.
A large 18th Century Venetian style building, it has the highest baroque bell tower in the world. This morning I was vigorously pursued by a guard who made sure I took no photographs in the church as it is forbidden. A shame, because it is amazingly beautiful, in particular, the 2 metre high silver leafed wall icon of the Panormiti.
Either side of the main gateway are two rows of buildings that contain rooms with a kitchenette and bathroom. At the beach I met a Greek lady from Rhodes who told me these can be rented for E17 per couple per night… fantastic for anyone needing to get away for some peace and quiet.
Read somewhere online about Elpida Kafeneion, near the clock tower in Symi. Order a drink and complimentary nibbles will appear… decided tonight I would check it out. Harbourside, great 70’s 80’s music… best place to go if you’ve had a good lunch, don’t need dinner, however, you want to get out and about on a Saturday night and enjoy yourself.
