Chora & Cyclatic Island, Greece
This morning we sailed into the port of Naxos, which is overlooked by the Portara – the huge ”doorway” of the Temple of Apollo built in the 6th Century B.C. Our coaches took us from Chora, the capital town, to the interior of the green and mountainous Cyclatic Island.
Stone-terrace walls, green fields, wildflowers and goats and cattle were strewn on the way. We stopped at Damalas, a tiny village where we were met by Manolis. He let us visit his family’s age-old olive press and demonstrated his family craft for many generations. A piece of clay in his hands, within minutes, took the shape of a traditional wine pitcher. He is one of the last potters who makes the Naxian Siphon, the bird call and the cup of Pythegoras out of clay.
Our very relaxed and fulfilling morning ended back in the main town, where we walked up into the medieval town. All the way up to the top of the ”Kastro” white-washed buildings with recycled ancient material; tiny churches and an impressive view awaited us at the top.
Our visit concluded in the local-produce shops, where we sampled the local cheeses and spirits.We sailed from Naxos leaving parts of our hearts behind just like Theseus had left Ariadne.
This morning we sailed into the port of Naxos, which is overlooked by the Portara – the huge ”doorway” of the Temple of Apollo built in the 6th Century B.C. Our coaches took us from Chora, the capital town, to the interior of the green and mountainous Cyclatic Island.
Stone-terrace walls, green fields, wildflowers and goats and cattle were strewn on the way. We stopped at Damalas, a tiny village where we were met by Manolis. He let us visit his family’s age-old olive press and demonstrated his family craft for many generations. A piece of clay in his hands, within minutes, took the shape of a traditional wine pitcher. He is one of the last potters who makes the Naxian Siphon, the bird call and the cup of Pythegoras out of clay.
Our very relaxed and fulfilling morning ended back in the main town, where we walked up into the medieval town. All the way up to the top of the ”Kastro” white-washed buildings with recycled ancient material; tiny churches and an impressive view awaited us at the top.
Our visit concluded in the local-produce shops, where we sampled the local cheeses and spirits.We sailed from Naxos leaving parts of our hearts behind just like Theseus had left Ariadne.
