Winter Walks

The first of the ‘Winter Season’ walks took place on Saturday 1st October. We had a great day and enjoyed a splendid walk, although in the afternoon, temperatures were considerably less than wintry!

The first hi-light of the day was Aghios Theodoros Monastry. Having obtained the keys from the Homatero Priest, we were able to spend as much time as we wanted in the Chapel, and ate lunch in the sunshine in the garden.

The inside of the Monastery has a lovely, special atmosphere and is covered with fragments of very old looking frescoes, which I would like to find out more about.

The second hi-light of the day was being invited in to view the Priest’s considerable collection of artwork. That morning I had given him a print of a small sketch I had done of the Monastery, as a sign of appreciation. On our return with the key, he presented me with one of his own original paintings which now hangs in my studio! He has been painting and drawing for years – more than that – he creates collages and works in mixed media, and has a great sense of composition. I am particularly fond of the religious paintings and collages. He is an inspiring example of someone who creates art for the love of it.

This year a beautifully produced book on Aghios Theodoros was published, written by Panayota Katsiva, who was born in Homatero. Copies are available from the Homatero church for €10. Unfortunately it is only in Greek, so it may take me some time to find a way to get an English translation!