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)
In the north side of the city, next to Sapountzis Mansion
Post-Byzantine Church of Aghios Loukas
Front side and Sign
Post-Byzantine Church of Aghios Loukas
Protective cover over the small church
Post-Byzantine Church of Aghios Loukas
Built-in stone plate above the Church entrance: "This sacred church, dedicated to the saint and glorious Apostle and Evangelist Luke, was rebuilt from the ground in the year of 1840"
Post-Byzantine Church of Aghios Loukas
Surprise! What you can get by just pushing your tiny camera through a hole in a window-pane.
Post-Byzantine Church of Aghios Loukas
Dusted dragons and gold plated woodcarved ornaments. The church acts as a store-room rather than a place of worship!
Post-Byzantine Church of Aghios Loukas
Post-Byzantine Church of Aghios Loukas
The eastern side of the church, where the Sanctum Sanctorum protrusion is visible. The grave of a monk-priest who served the church until his death is to be found here as well!