Review:

Located on the easternmost peninsula of Chalcidice in the Aegean Sea in northern Greece, Mount Athos has been the spiritual heart of the Christian Orthodox church since 1054, enjoying an autonomous statute since its formation until today. The Holy Mountain, now home to about 1400 monks, is forbidden to women and children. It is also recognized as an artistic site, and its school of painting widely influenced the history of Orthodox art as far as Russia. The whole mountain is densely covered by lush Mediterranean forest with small farms in between, and they are regularly farmed by monks.

The monasteries of Athos, works of art in and of themselves with their unique architecture, are also immensely rich conservatories of art masterpieces with 1290 wall paintings by Manuel Panselinos and 1560 painting by Frangos and priceless portable icons, embroideries, gold pieces, and illuminated manuscripts. Unfortunately, only monks are allowed to visit Mount Athos. Some men can visit with a special permit, while women and children have to be satisfied by cruising around and taking in the spectacular landscapes of nature and architecture living in harmony.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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