Tour Overview
B02 Essence of Icons
This tour takes us right to the heart of spiritual art giving us a deeper understanding Of the icons beauty, harmony and symbolism.
Our tour departs by coach from the port Of Skala taking us to the Old village of Chora, the islands capital, which stands high on the hilltop with a panoramic view over the island.
Firstly we visit the tiny Convent of Zoodochos Pigi built in 1607. On one side of the cobbled courtyard is the chapel where we discover an array of recently restored 17th century frescoes along With a beautiful carved icon wall. On the other side is a small gift shop where one can purchase handicrafts made by the nuns.
From the convent we walk through the winding cobbled streets of Chora to the 11th century Monastery of St. John the Theologian. The main church is steeped with icons and frescoes dating as far back as the 12th century, along with an impressive gilded icon wall. What sets this tour apart is the rare opportunity to visit the Monastery’s icon restoration studio, where we see meticulous skilled work in progress and learn about restoration techniques.
We then visit the monastery’s museum which contains endless Byzantine treasures including documents dating from as early as the early 6th century and a wonderful collection of icons by many famous painters including an early El Greco. After this memorable tour, you Will embark the coach for the short ride back to the port.
| From | To | Element & Description | Details & Remarks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00:00 | 00:10 | Depart for Chora | Transfer by motor coach | 00:10 |
| 00:10 | 00:20 | Walk to Zoodochos Pigi | Guided walk | 00:10 |
| 00:20 | 00:40 | Visit of Zoodochos Pigi | Guided Walk | 00:20 |
| 00:40 | 00:55 | Walk to the Monastery | Guided Walk | 00:15 |
| 00:55 | 02:10 | Visit of the Monastery | Guided Visit | 01:15 |
| 02:10 | 02:40 | Visit of the Icon Restoration studio | Guided visit | 00:30 |
| 02:40 | 02:50 | Return to the port | Transfer by motor Coach | 00:10 |
