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 August 2009 Newsletter
 This Month 
August's Article: Dormition of the Theotokos Special Feature: Iconography in the Orthodox Church
What's New: Music, Movies, and Books Featured Destination: Crete Part 4: Chania
Latest Arrivals: Jewelry! August's Recipe: Agrími Me Stifádo (Braised wild goat)
Saint Namedays in August Suggestions, Comments, Subscription Info

August's Recipe: Agrími Me Stifádo (Braised wild goat)

Ingredients:
  • 3 1/2 lbs or 1 1/2 kg wild goat's meat
  • 1 generous cup or 250ml Greek extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 generous cup or 250ml white wine
  • 1 lb or 500g small onions, peeled
  • 2-3 bay leaves
  • 2-3 cloves
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper


Preparation:

Bone the meat and cut it into small pieces. Heat the olive oil in a pan and brown the meat all over. Lower the heat, add enough water to cover the meat, cover the pan, and simmer for about 45 minutes. Add the white wine and bring to a boil, removing any scum that is produced. Add the bay leaves and cloves, and season with salt and pepper. Put the whole peeled onions in the pan, cover, and cook for a further 30 minutes, adding hot water if necessary. Finally stir in the tomato paste, and continue to braise until the meat is tender. This dish is best served with freshly baked white bread to dip in the sauce.

Culinaria Greece by Milona, MarianthiExcerpts and Photography from: Culinaria Greece
by Milona, Marianthi


 
August's Article:
Dormition of the Theotokos


Dormition of the Theotokos


The Dormition (Falling Asleep) of the Theotokos is one of the Great Feasts of the Orthodox Church, celebrated on August 15. This feast, which is also sometimes called the Assumption, commemorates the death, resurrection and glorification of Christ's mother. It proclaims that Mary has been "assumed" by God into the heavenly kingdom of Christ in the fullness of her spiritual and bodily existence.

The Feast of the Dormition is preceded by a fast from August 1st-August 14th (inclusive). During this two-week Dormition Fast, Orthodox and Eastern Catholics fast from red meat, poultry, meat products, dairy products (eggs and milk products), fish, oil, and wine. The Dormition Fast is a stricter fast than either the Nativity Fast (Advent) or the Apostles' Fast, with only wine and oil (but no fish) allowed on weekends. As with the other Fasts of the Church year, there is a Great Feast that falls during the Fast; in this case, the Transfiguration (August 6, on which fish, wine and oil are allowed.

The first day of the Dormition Fast is a feast day called the Procession of the Cross (August 1), on which day it is customary to have a crucession and perform the Lesser Sanctification of Water.

The Feast of the Dormition has a one-day Forefeast and 8 days of Afterfeast. The feast is framed and accentuated by three feasts in honour of Jesus Christ, known as the "Three Feasts of the Saviour in August". These are: the Procession of the Cross (August 1), the Transfiguration (August 6), and the Icon of Christ "Not Made by Hand" (August 16).
 

 Special Feature: Iconography in the Orthodox Church
Part 3 of 4


 

In the Icon of the Nativity the Theotokos reclines serenely beside the cave directing our eyes with her right hand to the Christ Child lying in a manger. The animals indicate fulfillment of the prophesy of Isaiah l:3, “The ox knows his owner and the donkey its master's crib; but Israel does not know, my people do not consider.” The face of the Jesus is not that of an infant but more mature. This mature countenance, used in all icons of the Christ Child, indicates that He is always God, even as an infant. His swaddling clothes contrast birth and death. Linen shrouds will be seen in icons of the Raising of Lazarus and the Dormition of the Theotokos. The dark cave contrasts with the brilliance surrounding it. The Star of Bethlehem radiates from the semicircle at the top of the icon. In all icons this semicircle represents Heaven opening up to an event on earth.

In iconography events of the Gospels that occur at various times and locations may be depicted on the same icon. Thus, scenes from the Gospel of St. Luke surround Mother and Child: the angels singing and glorifying God; the angel bringing the news of Christ's birth to the shepherds; the Wise Men traveling to bring their gifts to the newborn king.

In the lower left the Evil One, shown as an old man, attempts to destroy Joseph’s belief in the miracle of the Nativity. On the right the Christ Child is bathed by the women, affirming His humanity.

The linear and unrealistic background is designed to focus attention on the Virgin and Child in the center of the icon. The unearthly appearance of the setting strengthens the perception that an extraordinary and divine event is being depicted.

The Mandylion Icon is a copy of “the icon not by human hands.” Sacred Tradition tells us that King Abgar of Edessa was ill and had heard of the healing miracles of Christ. With great faith he sent emissaries to seek Christ's help. When approached by the emissaries, Christ wiped His face on a cloth which became imprinted with His image. The emissaries returned to Edessa with the cloth. The King was cured and the cloth was hung upon the gates of the city. The image became the archetype of the face of Christ for all iconographers.

In the Annunciation Icon the Theotokos, seated and sometimes shown spinning wool, is listening to Archangel Gabriel. Gabriel comes to her with great speed and purpose to ask her to accept God's call to bear His Son. She may face him or be turning shyly away but looking back to listen. She is pensive. As on all images of the Theotokos, the stars at her forehead and shoulders indicate her virginity before, during and after birth. Archangel Gabriel, animated by powerful wings and billowing clothing, has his hand outstretched in greeting. He often carries a staff as a sign of his role as messenger.  

The Holy Spirit emanates from the semicircle representing Heaven seen at the top of the icon. The background includes a drape of fabric which tells the faithful that the event occurred indoors. Images of buildings are shown with inverse perspective and stylized design to symbolize a transfigured or spiritually significant space.

Click here to continue reading page 2
 

(Written by Faye Peponis, who has served the Greek Orthodox Church for over 35 years in various administrative and teaching capacities. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Education from DePaul University and a Master's in Education from Purdue University.)
 

Ecclesia: Greek Orthodox Churches of the Chicago Metropolis
Excerpts and Photography from
Ecclesia: Greek Orthodox Churches
of the Chicago Metropolis

by Panos Fiorentinos


 What's New!
 CDs
Thalassa 2009 - 22 Greek Summer Hits (CD +DVD)

Thalassa 2009 - 22 Greek Summer Hits (CD)
Thalassa 2009 - 22 Greek Summer Hits (CD)

Thalassa 2009 - 22 Greek Summer Hits (CD +DVD)


Minos Summer 2009 - 20 Greek Summer Hits

Minos Summer 2009 - 20 Greek Summer Hits
Athens Bar vol. 3 - 16 Greek Summer Hits

Athens Bar vol. 3 - 16 Greek Summer Hits
Hot Summer Mix 2009 - 25 Greek Summer Hits

Hot Summer Mix 2009 - 25 Greek Summer Hits
 
Digital Heaven 2009 - 14 Greek Summer Hits from Heaven

Digital Heaven 2009 - 14 Greek Summer Hits from Heaven
Kalokeri 2009 - 55 Hits (3cds)

Kalokeri 2009 - 55 Hits (3cds)


Non-stop Greek Mix Vol. 5 by Nikos Halkousis

Non-stop Greek Mix Vol. 5 by Nikos Halkousis

 
The Nisiotiko Glenti - 81 Island Songs for your party

The Nisiotiko Glenti - 81 Island Songs for your party


Leko Xefantoma 2CD Compilation

Leko Xefantoma
2CD Compilation
Mamma Mia (OST)

Mamma Mia (OST)
 
Seven 7 Special Edition, Mihalis Hatzigiannis (BONUS DVD)

Seven 7 Special Edition, Mihalis Hatzigiannis (BONUS DVD)
PS S' Agapo Sp. Edition CD / DVD (PAL), Dionysis Shoinas

PS S' Agapo Sp. Edition CD / DVD (PAL), Dionysis Shoinas

Ap' to liverpoul sti sadorini, Vasilis Kazoulis

Ap' to liverpoul sti sadorini, Vasilis Kazoulis
Me ton obama adama, Hristos Nikolopoulos

Me ton obama adama, Hristos Nikolopoulos
Mia kokkini grammi, Natasa Theodoridou

Mia kokkini grammi, Natasa Theodoridou
Para Poli, George Tsalikis

Para Poli, George Tsalikis
Ximerose, Glykeria

Ximerose, Glykeria
Thanos Petrelis Live, Thanos Petrelis

Thanos Petrelis Live,
Thanos Petrelis
Etimi, Rallia Hristidou

Etimi, Rallia Hristidou
Allios, Konstantinos Hristoforou

Allios, Konstantinos Hristoforou
Ena Oneiro Zo, Thelxi

Ena Oneiro Zo, Thelxi

 
Zodano Kittaro, Eleni Vitali (2 CD)

Zodano Kittaro, Eleni Vitali (2 CD)
Kostas Makedonas Live (2 CD)

Kostas Makedonas
Live (2 CD)
An Ikseres, Andreas Stamos

An Ikseres, Andreas Stamos
Eleni Vitali Antholoyio (4 CD)

Eleni Vitali Antholoyio
(4 CD)
Ap' Tin Arhi, Vicky Leandros (5 CD)

Ap' Tin Arhi, Vicky Leandros (5 CD)
72 Megales Epiihies, Dionysis Hiotis (4 CD)

72 Megales Epiihies, Dionysis Hiotis (4 CD)

 
Sighroni Elliniki Mousiki Yia Flaouto Ke Piano, Contemporary Greek Music Foro Flute and Piano

Sighroni Elliniki Mousiki Yia Flaouto Ke Piano, Contemporary Greek Music Foro Flute and Piano
Glenti Sta Klarina, Filio Pirgaki

Glenti Sta Klarina,
Filio Pirgaki

 
14 Megala Tragoudia, Sofia Vebo

14 Megala Tragoudia,
Sofia Vebo
14 Megala Tragoudia, Nikos Gounaris

14 Megala Tragoudia, Nikos Gounaris

14 Megala Tragoudia, Tonis Maroudas

14 Megala Tragoudia,
Tonis Maroudas

 
14 Megala Tragoudia, Yiannis Logothetis

14 Megala Tragoudia, Yiannis Logothetis
14 Megala Tragoudia, Lakis Alexandrou

14 Megala Tragoudia, Lakis Alexandrou

 
 DVDs
Mamma Mia (NTSC DVD)

Mamma Mia (NTSC DVD)
Mamma Mia - 2 Disc Special Edition (NTSC DVD)

Mamma Mia - 2 Disc Special Edition (NTSC DVD)
A Touch of Spice - Politiki Kouzina  DVD - (NTSC)

A Touch of Spice - Politiki Kouzina DVD - (NTSC)


Rebetiko (1984) Special Edition 2004 DVD (NTSC - All Zone)

Rebetiko (1984) Special Edition 2004 DVD (NTSC - All Zone)

 
Iview 1800HD Multi Region HD DVD Player + Karaoke Player

Iview 1800HD Multi Region HD DVD Player + Karaoke Player
 Books - Children's Books in Greek
C. S. Lewis, The Magician’s Nephew (In Greek)

C. S. Lewis, The Magician’s Nephew (In Greek)

C. S. Lewis, Prince Caspian : The Return to Narnia (In Greek)

C. S. Lewis, Prince Caspian : The Return to Narnia
(In Greek)

O Mikros Nikolas se nees peripeties, René Goscinny (In Greek)

O Mikros Nikolas se nees peripeties, René Goscinny (In Greek)

Ta Magika Maxilaria, Evgenios Trivizas (In Greek)

Ta Magika Maxilaria, Evgenios Trivizas (In Greek)
O Mikros Nikolas, René Goscinny (In Greek)

O Mikros Nikolas, René Goscinny (In Greek)
Aristofanes for Children Series, Ornithes, Aristofanes (In Greek)

Aristofanes for Children Series: Ploutos, Aristofanes (In Greek)

Aristofanes for Children Series, Ornithes, Aristofanes (In Greek)

Aristofanes for Children Series: Ploutos, Aristofanes (In Greek)

 
Aristofanes for Children Series: Lysistrata, Aristofanes (In Greek)

Aristofanes for Children Series: Lysistrata, Aristofanes (In Greek)

Misi Magiki Ora stin Acropoli (In Greek)

Misi Magiki Ora stin Acropoli (In Greek)
To Sentouki Me Tis Pente Kleidaries, Evgenios Trivizas (In Greek)

To Sentouki Me Tis Pente Kleidaries, Evgenios Trivizas (In Greek)
I Theia Lena sta Mikra Paidia (365 Paramithia), Antigoni Metaxa (In Greek)

I Theia Lena sta Mikra Paidia (365 Paramithia), Antigoni Metaxa (In Greek)

Diaskedazo Me Tin Theia Lena, Antigoni Metaxa (In Greek)

Diaskedazo Me Tin Theia Lena, Antigoni Metaxa
(In Greek)
Pao Sto Nippiagogio, Rossi Zairi (In Greek)

Pao Sto Nippiagogio, Rossi Zairi (In Greek)

I parastasi arxizei... (School Plays) in Greek

I parastasi arxizei... (School Plays) in Greek
School Atlas with computer navigator (DVD) In Greek

School Atlas with computer navigator (DVD) In Greek

  Books - Literature & Fiction in Greek
Sto Onoma Tis Agapis, Alexia Marinou (In Greek)

Sto Onoma Tis Agapis, Alexia Marinou (In Greek)

Petradi Tis Ionias, Marina Alexandrou (In Greek)

Petradi Tis Ionias, Marina Alexandrou (In Greek)
Peesi - Poetry, by Odysseas Elitis (In Greek)

Peesi - Poetry, by Odysseas Elitis (In Greek)

Ola Hathikan Sti Vrohi, by Kali Karatza, In Greek

Ola Hathikan Sti Vrohi, by Kali Karatza, (In Greek)
Erotas San Vrohi, Manta (In Greek)

Erotas San Vrohi, Manta
(In Greek)
Ola Kala Tha Mas Pane, Arno Gaiger (In Greek)

Ola Kala Tha Mas Pane,
Arno Gaiger (In Greek)

Dakrismenos Ilios, Antitsi Tsimanta (In Greek)

Dakrismenos Ilios, Antitsi Tsimanta (In Greek)
Nikokyra Gia Klamata, Sofi Kinsella (In Greek)

Nikokyra Gia Klamata,
Sofi Kinsella (In Greek)

Stavrodromi Ton Psihon, Dimoulidou (In Greek)

Stavrodromi Ton Psihon, Dimoulidou (In Greek)
Zise mazi mou, Alexia Marinou (In Greek)

Zise mazi mou, Alexia Marinou (In Greek)
Epistrofi Stis Palies Agapes, Alexia Marinou (In Greek)

Epistrofi Stis Palies Agapes, Alexia Marinou (In Greek)
Paramithi O Erotas, Marina Alexandrou (In Greek)

Paramithi O Erotas, Marina Alexandrou (In Greek)
Mavro Fili, Menios Sakelaropoulos (In Greek)

Mavro Fili, Menios Sakelaropoulos (In Greek)

Logia Ftera, Hristos Homenidis (In Greek)

Logia Ftera, Hristos Homenidis (In Greek)
Oi Odoiporoi Tis Kardias, Omiroli Eva (In Greek)

Oi Odoiporoi Tis Kardias, Omiroli Eva (In Greek)
  Books - Literature & Fiction in English
Lords of the Sea: The Epic Story of the Athenian Navy and the Birth of Democracy (Audiobook)

Lords of the Sea: The Epic Story of the Athenian Navy and the Birth of Democracy (Audiobook)
Peloponnesian War, Donald Kagan (In English)

Peloponnesian War, Donald Kagan (In English)
The Complete World of Greek Mythology, Richard Buxton (In English)

The Complete World of Greek Mythology, Richard Buxton (In English)

Sailing the Wine-Dark Sea, Thomas Cahill (In English)

Sailing the Wine-Dark Sea, Thomas Cahill (In English)
The Greeks and Greek Love, James Davidson (In English)

The Greeks and Greek Love, James Davidson (In English)
Thermopylae: The Battle For The West, Ernle Bradford (In English)

Thermopylae: The Battle For The West, Ernle Bradford (In English)
Ancient Athens on 5 Drachmas a Day, Philip Matyszak (In English)

Ancient Athens on 5 Drachmas a Day, Philip Matyszak (In English)
Jewish Sites in Thessaloniki

Jewish Sites in Thessaloniki

Lefkada Travel Guide

Lefkada Travel Guide
 
 Greek Fisherman's Hats

Children's Greek Fisherman Hat

The original Greek Fisherman hat is now available in a children's
size 6 1/2 (US). This size fits most children's ages 7 and up.

Makes a great accessory for dance outfits. Discounts
available on volume orders for Churches and Dance Troops.
 

Greek Fisherman's Hat - Wool - Black

Greek Fisherman's Hat -
Wool - Black


 Christian and Greek Oil Lamps
Oil Lamp Jerusalem

Oil Lamp Jerusalem
Oil Lamp Nazareth

Oil Lamp Nazareth
Oil Lamp Bethlehem

Oil Lamp Bethlehem

Oil Lamp Jericho

Oil Lamp Jericho
Oil Lamp Tabor

Oil Lamp Tabor
Oil Lamp Jordan

Oil Lamp Jordan
Oil Lamp John

Oil Lamp John

Oil Lamp Mark

Oil Lamp Mark
Oil Lamp Matthew

Oil Lamp Matthew

Oil Lamp Luke

Oil Lamp Luke

Oil Lamp Paul

Oil Lamp Paul
Oil Lamp Peter

Oil Lamp Peter

Oil Lamp Zeus

Oil Lamp Zeus
Oil Lamp Athena

Oil Lamp Athena

Oil Lamp Galinos

Oil Lamp Galinos

  Statues and Busts
Socrates - Marble Color Statue 8"

Socrates - Marble Color Statue 8"
Apollo - Marble Color Bust (8 ")

Apollo - Marble Color Bust (8")

Athena - Marble Color Bust (6")

Athena - Marble Color Bust (6")

Warrior Mask (6")

Warrior Mask (6")
Pan Mask (6")

Pan Mask (6")
Old Woman Mask (6")

Old Woman Mask (6"")
Parthenon Replica (5")

Parthenon Replica (5")
Discovolos Discus Athlete Statue (5.5")

Discovolos Discus Athlete Statue (5.5")

Hippocrates Oath (7" x 10")

Hippocrates Oath (7" x 10")
Achilles Relief (7" x 10")

Achilles Relief (7" x 10")
Parthenon Relief (8" x 11")

Parthenon Relief (8" x 11")
Caryatides Relief (8" x 11")

Caryatides Relief (8" x 11")
Troy Wooden Horse Relief (9" x 13")

Troy Wooden Horse Relief (9" x 13")

Parthenon's Pediment - West (6" x 31")

Parthenon's Pediment - West (6" x 31")
Parthenon's Pediment - East (6" x 31")

Parthenon's Pediment - East (6" x 31")
Aphrodite Bust (6")

Aphrodite Bust (6")


Homer Bust (6")
Sophocles Bust (6")

Sophocles Bust (6")

Socrates Bust (6")

Socrates Bust (6")
Hippocrates Bust (6")

Hippocrates Bust (6")
Plato Bust (6")

Plato Bust (6")
Hygeia Bust (5")

Hygeia Bust (5")
Aristotle Bust (6")

Aristotle Bust (6")

Charioteer Bust (6")

Charioteer Bust (6")
Apollo Bust (6")

Apollo Bust (6")
Poseidon or Zeus Bust (6")

Poseidon or Zeus Bust (6")
Sphinx Statue (5")

Sphinx Statue (5")
Artemis Bust (6")

Artemis Bust (6")

Asclepius Bust (6")

Asclepius Bust (6")
Athens Stadium Statue (5" x 3")

Athens Stadium Statue
(5" x 3")
Helmet of Athena (4")

Helmet of Athena (4")
Helmet Statue (4")

Helmet Statue (4")
Temple of Apollo Statue Portara (6")

Temple of Apollo Statue Portara (6")

Owl Statue (6")

Owl Statue (6")
Hadrien's Gate Statue (6")

Hadrien's Gate Statue (6")

Homer Bust (7")

Homer Bust (7")
Column Statue (7")

Column Statue (7")
Pythagoras Bust (7")

Pythagoras Bust (7")

Alexander Bust (7")

Alexander Bust (7")
Poseidon or Zeus Bust (8")

Poseidon or Zeus Bust (8")

Hippocrates Statue (12")

Hippocrates Statue (12")
Pericles Bust (10")

Pericles Bust (10")
Epidavros Theater (7" x 8" x 3")

Epidavros Theater
(7" x 8" x 3")

Candle Stick Holder -  Ancient Greek Column (5")

Candle Stick Holder - Ancient Greek Column (5")
Candle Stick Holder - Ancient Greek Column Top (3")

Candle Stick Holder -
Ancient Greek Column Top (3")
Candle Stick Holder - Ancient Greek Column Top (4")

Candle Stick Holder - Ancient Greek Column Top (4")
Candle Stick Holder -  Ancient Greek Column (9")

Candle Stick Holder - Ancient Greek Column (9")
Caryatid Candle Holder

Caryatid Candle Holder

Ancient Greece Column Candle Holder

Ancient Greece Column Candle Holder
 
Molivothiki Aetoma - Pediment Pencil Holder (10x3 in.)

Molivothiki Aetoma - Pediment Pencil Holder (10x3 in.)
  Food Items
Greek Country Mixed Olives 17oz jar

Greek Country Mixed Olives 17oz jar
Greek Agrinion Green Cracked Olives 17oz jar

Greek Agrinion Green Cracked Olives 17oz jar
Fantis Greek Kalamata Olives 17oz jar

Fantis Greek Kalamata Olives 17oz jar

Palirria Cuisine Hellenic - Baked Giant Beans in Tomato Sauce

Palirria Cuisine Hellenic - Baked Giant Beans in Tomato Sauce

Palirria Cuisine Hellenic - Cabbage Leaves Stuffed with Rice, Raisins, Pine Nuts in Lemon Sauce

Palirria Cuisine Hellenic - Cabbage Leaves Stuffed with Rice, Raisins, Pine Nuts in Lemon Sauce
Palirria Cuisine Hellenic - Artichoke Hearts in Lemon Sauce

Palirria Cuisine Hellenic - Artichoke Hearts in
Lemon Sauce
Palirria Cuisine Hellenic - Vine Leaves Stuffed with Rice

Palirria Cuisine Hellenic - Vine Leaves Stuffed
with Rice/strong>
Misko Fine Semolina (500g)

Misko Fine Semolina (500g)

Misko Coarse (Thick) Semolina from Greece

Misko Coarse (Thick) Semolina from Greece

Papadopoulou Caprice Chocolate Orange 250gr

Papadopoulou Caprice Chocolate Orange 250gr

 Latest Arrivals: Jewelry!
 Sterling Silver, Rhodium Plated and Costume Jewelry
Sterling Silver Necklace - Greek Key Link (.6cm)

Sterling Silver Necklace - Greek Key Link (.6cm)
Sterling Silver Bracelet - Spiral Links (1.1cm)

Sterling Silver Bracelet - Spiral Links (1.1cm)
Sterling Silver Bracelet - Spiral Links (.5cm)

Sterling Silver Bracelet - Spiral Links (.5cm)
Sterling Silver Bracelet - Double Wavy Greek Key Links (.4cm)

Sterling Silver Bracelet - Double Wavy Greek Key Links (.4cm)
Sterling Silver Bracelet - Wavy Greek Key Links (.4cm)

Sterling Silver Bracelet - Wavy Greek Key Links (.4cm)
Sterling Silver Earrings - Spiral (1cm)

Sterling Silver Earrings - Spiral (1cm)
Sterling Silver Hoop Earrings - Greek Key (1cm)

Sterling Silver Hoop Earrings - Greek Key (1cm)
Sterling Silver Earrings - Spiral (1cm)

Sterling Silver Earrings - Spiral (1cm)
Sterling Silver Earrings - Spiral (1.2cm)

Sterling Silver Earrings - Spiral (1.2cm)
Sterling Silver Earrings - Greek Key (1cm)

Sterling Silver Earrings - Greek Key (1cm)
Sterling Silver Earrings - Phaistos Disk (1.5cm)

Sterling Silver Earrings - Phaistos Disk (1.5cm)
Sterling Silver Earrings - Phaistos Disk (1.5cm)

Sterling Silver Earrings - Phaistos Disk (1.5cm)
Sterling Silver Earrings - Greek Key Diamond (1.2cm)

Sterling Silver Earrings - Greek Key Diamond (1.2cm)
Sterling Silver Earrings - Insect (2.5cm)

Sterling Silver Earrings - Insect (2.5cm)
Sterling Silver Ring - Minoan Dolphin

Sterling Silver Ring - Minoan Dolphin
Sterling Silver Ring - Small Greek Key

Sterling Silver Ring -
Small Greek Key
Sterling Silver Ring - Large Greek Key

Sterling Silver Ring -
Large Greek Key

Sterling Silver Ring - Greek Key Cut-out

Sterling Silver Ring -
Greek Key Cut-out
Sterling Silver Ring - Double Greek Key Cut-out

Sterling Silver Ring - Double Greek Key Cut-out
Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Necklace - Double Rams Head

Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Necklace - Double Rams Head
Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Bracelet - Double Rams Head

Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Bracelet - Double Rams Head
Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Necklace - Double Rams Head

Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Necklace - Double Rams Head
Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Bracelet - Double Rams Head

Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Bracelet - Double Rams Head
Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Ring - Rams Head

Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Ring - Rams Head
Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Necklace - Double Lions Head

Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Necklace - Double Lions Head
Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Bracelet - Double Lions Head

Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Bracelet - Double Lions Head
Rubber Bracelet with 18k Gold Emblem - Double Aphrodite

Rubber Bracelet with 18k Gold Emblem - Double Aphrodite
Rubber Bracelet with 18k Gold Emblem - Double Aphrodite

Rubber Bracelet with 18k Gold Emblem - Double Aphrodite
Rubber Bracelet with 18k Gold Emblem - Parthenon

Rubber Bracelet with 18k Gold Emblem - Parthenon
 
Rubber and Steel Bracelet with 18k Gold Emblem - Athena

Rubber and Steel Bracelet with 18k Gold Emblem - Athena
Rubber and Steel Bracelet with 18k Gold Emblem - Aphrodite

Rubber and Steel Bracelet with 18k Gold Emblem - Aphrodite
Begleri - Spiral and Greek Key Beads

Begleri - Spiral and Greek Key Beads
Worrybeads - Metalic Black on Chain

Worrybeads - Metalic Black on Chain
Evil Eye Bracelet - Rectangle Greek Key

Evil Eye Bracelet -
Rectangle Greek Key
Evil Eye Bracelet - Heart and Flower Beads

Evil Eye Bracelet - Heart and Flower Beads

  Featured Destination: Crete (part 4 of 5)

   
  Crete: Part Four of Five

Karpathos Island MapGEOGRAPHY: The prefecture of Chania with its historic capital, sights of interest, rich vegetation and uniquely beautiful gorge of Samaria has an especial charm. Chania can be reached by aeroplane from Athens or ferryboat from Piraeus. Once a week there is a boat from the Peloponnese, Kythera and Antikythera. There is a local craft sailing out of Palaiochora for the small island of Gavdos and from Chora Sfakion to Gavdos. Caiques makes excursions along the south coast and to Gavdos during the summer months. 

HISTORY-SIGHTS-MONUMENTS: The capital of the Prefecture, Chania, like Rethymnon has a distinctly Venetian atmosphere. It stands on the site of ancient Kydonia and its history and fate differs little from that of the rest of Crete. Chania has been its capital since 1850. In 1941 the famous Battle of Crete began at Maleme. Nowadays Chania consists of both the old town and the new, the latter built around the Venetian' harbour. Sections of the Venetian ramparts are preserved in Chania and at Kastelli where there is the Venetian palace of the governor and the fortress of Firka. Other places of interest include the Municipal market, the house in which Eleftherios Venizelos lived, a few Turkish mosques and the Churches of St. Nicholas, St. Francis, the Russian church of St. Magdalene at Chalepa, and the monastery of the Virgin Chrysopigi and the Catholic monastery of Capuchin monks. The Archaeological Museum in the Byzantine church of St. Francis houses important finds from sites in western Crete. The Historical Museum, Municipal Art Gallery and Maritime Museum are also worth a visit.

To the west of Chania is Aghia Marina (10 km. from Chania) with its ruined Venetian and Turkish buildings, as well as a cult cave, Gerontospilios. The lovely seaside village of Platanias is 11 km. west of Chania and just beyond is Maleme (17 km. from Chania), renowned centre of the Battle of Crete in 1941. At Kolymbari (23 km. west of Chania) is the Gonia monastery (17th century), one of the major monuments of Crete. About 1 km. from the village the Orthodox Academy of Crete stands beside a beautiful bay. Kastelli kissamou, at the far end of the homonymous bay, is a quite thriving small town. There are remains of the ancient city and acropolis at Selli and at Krya Vrysi a Roman aqueduct. There are Venetian fortifications around the old harbour. In one of the rooms of the Town Hall there is an archaeological collection. The ancient city of Phalasarna stood close to the village of Platanos (53 km. west of Chania). A short distance to the north is the Gramvousa peninsula with its offshore islet of that name on which there are ruins of yet another ancient city, Polyrrhenia.

At Akrotiri (8 km. northeast of Chania) are the tombs of Eleftherios and Sophocles Venizelos and on the headland are two important monasteries: the Zangaroloi monastery (17th century) and that of Our Lady of the angels: (Gouverneto) of 16th century date. Close to the monastery is the Gouverneto cave with its wonderful stalagmite and stalactite formations. 6 km. east of Chania is Souda, the harbour of Chania which has developed rapidly in recent years. Mournies, 3.5 km. south of Chania, is the home village of Venizelos and not far to the south (16 km. from Chania) is the historic village of Theriso where the Cretan Revolution was declared. One of the loveliest regions in Crete, and indeed in Greece as a whole, is the Samaria Gorge, 18 km. long and 3.5 km. wide, at the westernmost edge of the plateau of Omalos. The gorge is a national nature reserve and it takes about seven hours to walk down to the village of Aghia Roumeli at its exit. About half way along its course is the tiny village of Samaria with the church of Hosia Maria.

Beside a beautiful beach on the Libyan coast, 74 km. south of Chania, is the picturesque village of Palaiochora. There are many delightful beaches on the south coast of the Prefecture, linked by caique services from Palaiochora of Chora Sfakion. Souya (67 km. southwest of Chania) is a quaint fishing village popular with tourists. At the exit to the Samaria Gorge is Aghia Roumeli which is linked by boat only with the other villages on the south coast. 73 km. southeast of Chania is Chora Sfakion with its traditional architecture, always a centre of resistance to the diverse occupiers. To the east is Frangokastello, one of the loveliest 14th century Venetian fortresses with which many local traditions are associated (Drosoulites). The little island of Gavdos, 27 nautical miles from Chora Sfakion, is the southernmost inhabited point in Europe with a history lost in the mists of time, for according to mythology this was the isle of Calypso. Between Gavdos and Aghia Roumeli lies the islet of Gavdopoula. South of the Monastery of the Virgin Chrysoskaliotissa (85 km. south of Chania) is Elafonisos, easily reached from dry land since the channel is exceptionally shallow.  

The shores of western Crete have wonderful sand and crystal clear seas. The beaches of north, west and east Chania can be easily reached by bus -Kolymbari, Kalamaki, Akrotiri, Kissamos. The beaches on the south coast are wonderfully secluded and can be reached in summer by daily caique trips, -Palaiochora, Souya, Aghia Roumeli, Loutro, Chora Sfakion, Frangokastello. AIl the villages, except Loutro and Aghia Roumeli, are accessible by bus or car. The shores are fine for swimming, fishing and sea sports. The sandy beach at Chrysoskaliotissa is particularly beautiful. The Chania Yacht Club offers instruction in water skiing, sailing and swimming and there are tennis courts at Chania also. One can hunt small game in the hinterland of the Prefecture. The road from Omalos (not very good condition) leads to the White Mountains (Lefka Oroi) where there are small ski slopes. Accommodation is available in hotels, pensions, rooms and flats. The harbours have good moorings for yachts and there are refelling facilities at Souda, Chania, Kastelli and Palaiochora.

Next month: Crete, Part Five (Final) - East Crete (Chania)


 August 2009 Greek Orthodox Calendar

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
     
 

 

 
1
Proodos of the Holy Cross

7 Maccabean Youths
 
2
Translation of the relics of Stephen

New Martyr Theodore of Dardanelles
3
7th Sunday of Matthew


Righteous Isaacius, Dalmatius, Faustus

Salome the Holy Myrrhbeare
 
4
Holy 7 Youths of Ephesus
5
Forefeast of the Transfiguration

Martyr Eusygnius
6
Holy Transfiguration

7
Afterfeast of the Transfiguration

Martyr Dometios

8
Emilian the Confessor

Myronus, Bp. Of Crete
9
Matthias of the 70

Anthony of Alexandria
10
8th Sunday of Matthew


Martyr Archdeacon Laurence

Chitus of Athens
 
11
Martyr Euplus the Deacon

Patriarch Niphonu
12
Martyrs Photios & Aniketos

Soldier-martyrs of Crete
13
Apodosis of Transfiguration

Maximos the Confessor
14
Forefeast of the Dormition

Prophet Micah
15
Dormition of the Theotokos
16
Icon

Martyr Diomede
17
9th Sunday of Matthew

Martyr Myron

Straton, Philip, Eutychian, & Cyprian of Nicomedea
 
18
Martyrs Floros & Lauros

John and George, Abps. Of Constantinople
19
Great Martyr Andrew Stratelates

Martyrs Timothy, Agapius and Thecla
20
Prophet Samuel

Martyr Luke of Bouleuto
21
Thaddeus of the 70

Martyr Bassa and her Children
22
Martyr Agathonikos & Companions

Martyr Anthuse
23
Apodosis of the Dormition

Ireneaus, Bishop
24
10th Sunday of Matthew


Hieromartyr Eutyches

Cosmas of Aitola
25
Apostle Bartholomew

Titus of the 70

 

26
Martyrs Adrian and Natalia

Righteous Joseph
27
Poimen the Great

Martyr Phanourius
28
Moses the Ethiopian

Diomedes and Laurence
29
Beheading of the Forerunner

Theodora of Thessaloniki
30
Apodosis of the Forerunner

Alexander, Paul & John, Pats.Of Const.
31
11th Sunday of Matthew


Venerable Sash of the Theotokos

Cyprian of Carthage
         


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