They are to be seen everywhere in Kastoria: some 75 of them, well-placed in prominent positions or hidden in the greenery of the back alleys or, still worse, sort of buried under the aesthetically imposing weight of more modern constructions.
Panayia Mavriotissa Monastery: Jesus entering Jerusalem
They are renovated and well taken care of, or left to collapse; open to the public or with gates shut, locked with rusty padlocks; with all their panes in place or smashed by irresponsible young children's stone throwing; with their frescos preserved or with their saints' eyes gaping wide empty, blinded in the past by fanatics more blind to their beauty and artistic value than the blinded icons they left behind. Like people, they share the odds of being lucky or unlucky, created and having to survive under a lucky star or in ages non-permissive to their beauty.
But, they are here! The two-dimensional world of their frescoes has, against all odds, survived and, given the proper attention, it could turn out a real artistic, historic and aesthetic treasure to rejoice. It could point to a so desperately needed way out for our multi-dimensional, disillusioned and frustrated world. Let the masterpieces shown in these photos be admired and respected the way they deserve!
Please refer to this Photo Album from time to time to see it growing!
(Photos and Text: Michael Tziotis)
Three supportive buttresses against the southern side of the Aghii Anargyri church
Byzantine Church of Aghii Anargyri
The entrance, always on the western side of the church, so that the Sanctum Sanctorum part of it, opposite the entrance, be towards the East.
Byzantine Church of Aghii Anargyri
The same entrance, in a frontal photo
Byzantine Church of Aghii Anargyri
Decorative frame framing the main entrance of the church
Byzantine Church of Aghii Anargyri
The fresco to the right in the previous photo. It iconizes Aghii Anargyri, (Saints Anargyri=Penniless), Kosmas and Damianos, who have lived in poverty after having distributed their fortunes to people of no means.
Byzantine Church of Aghii Anargyri
The side entrance to the church, visible also in the first couple of photos. It is on its the Southern side.
Byzantine Church of Aghii Anargyri
Decorative detail framing the side entrance (detail)
Byzantine Church of Aghii Anargyri
Windows, characteristic of the Byzantine architectural style
Byzantine Church of Aghii Anargyri
Windows, characteristic of the Byzantine architectural style (Detail)