9-Day Orthodox Pilgrimage – Thessaloniki to Athens

A sightseeing tour will take you through a fascinating journey of ancient ruins, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. The day starts with a visit at Agios Dimitrios Church an impressive early Christian Basilica built at 5th century AD an UNESCO Monument. The five aisled basilica suffered a tragic fire in the year 1917 but was later restored in 1948. Marvel at the beautiful mosaics, dating back from the 5th to 9th Centuries. From here, follow your guide to the area located under the basilica, where you will see the famous crypt, which according to tradition, was once the confinement for an officer by the name of Demetrius who was later executed by the emperor Galerius. Today, St. Demetrius is the patron Saint of the city. Continue to Panagia Chalkeon a well-preserved Byzantine church dedicated to the Virgin Mary (Panagia, & Agia Sofia Byzantine Church. Continue to Rotonda know as church of Agios Georgios, a well-preserved historical site, dating back to Roman and early Byzantine times. It was built early 4th century AD, and it was converted to a Christian church dedication to Saint George by Byzantine Emperor Theodosius late 4th century. Is a circular building with a massive dome at the top. Inside the Rotonda you can find well-preserved mosaics dating back to the 5th & 6th century, with religious scenes, including Christ, the Virgin Mary and various Saints. “Church of Acheiropoietos” translates to "not made by human hands." It is a term often used in Eastern Orthodox Christianity to refer to holy images or relics believed to be of divine origin. The church follows a basilica plan which was typical of early Christian architecture, is an UNESCO Monument Continue our bus tour passing by Arch of Galerius, stop for pictures at White Tower the symbol of Thessaloniki. Overnight in Thessaloniki

Drive to Ano Poli (Upper Town) passing by the Byzantine Walls, admire the traditional architecture and enjoy panoramic view of the city. Visit Vlatadon Monastery founded in the 14th century established by the monk and scholar Hosios Vlatades (Saint Gregory Palamas) and his brother. The Monastery has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting Orthodox Christian spirituality and culture. It has been a center of learning, and its monks have contributed to theological and philosophical debates of the time. Continue our tour to Moni Latomou – Hosios David, built late 5th century UNESCO Monument, and Agios Nikolaos Orphanos known for its well-preserved 14th century frescos. Last stop for today is the Holy Monastery of Saint John the Divine “the Theologian” at Souroti dedicated to Saint John the Theologian & Saint Arsenios the Cappadocian. The monastery was founded by Saint Paisios who initially established a hermitage in the area which later was evolved into the monastery. Visitors come to seek spiritual solace and receive blessings from the relics, in the Monastery there are the Relics of Saint Arsenios of Cappadocia as well as the tomb of Saint Paisios. Overnight in Thessaloniki

Departure to Nea Karvali (163 km 2 hrs 20 min) to visit the Holy Monastery of Saint Gregory the Theologian. The Monastery took its name from the Cappadocian village of Karvali where the Theologian Saint Gregory of Nazianzus, Archbishop of Constantinople was revered. The holy relic was kept in the eponymous church in Karvali, Cappadocia from AD390 until 1924, when with the population exchange between Greece and Turkey Greek refugees moved it to their new homeland, Nea Karvali (New Karvali) small village close to Kavala. Next stop, the place where the Apostle Paul baptized the first Christian woman in Europe – Lydia. She accepted Christianity and was baptized along with her whole family, and later did a lot to spread the new faith. Continue to Holy Monastery of Timiou Prodromou Nikisianis located at foothills of Pagaio Monastery (07:00-13:00-16:00 until sunset) built at 1900. The monastery holds a precious treasure of piece of the Holy Wood and more than 30 Holy Relics of Saints such as St Spyridon, Saint Stefanos, Saint Panteleimonos, Saint Alexios, Saint Theodor, Saint. Arsenios of Cappadocia, Saint Maximo and more others. Our next stop is the Holy Monastery of Eikosifoinissa a spiritual monastery established back to the years of Bishop Philipps Sozontos, around 450AD. This monastic settlement was abandoned over the years and the Monastery was actually founded by Saint Germanos in 8th Century. Overnight in Thessaloniki

After breakfast, in the early hours of the morning, a visit to the church awaits. Following the orthodox liturgy, we cast one last glance around the sacred space before setting out for Veria, (72km 1hr). Next stop is Veria, which has historical and religious importance due to its association with the Apostle Paul, who preached in the city during his missionary journey, in AD50, (Acts 17.10-14). Veria, often referred to as "Little Jerusalem," boasts a myriad of churches, some dating back to early Christian times. In the heart of Veria, adjacent to Orologiou Square, stands the revered pilgrimage monument known as the "Step of the Apostle Paul." This hallowed site is believed to be where Apostle Paul, during his journey between 50 and 60 AD from Thessaloniki to Veria, fervently preached the tenets of Christianity to the people. Further along, a visit to the Metropolis awaits. Consecrated in 1904 and dedicated to Saint Anthony, this magnificent structure stands as a testament to faith and devotion. Its architecture, steeped in history, invites all who enter to partake in the spiritual heritage that has flourished within its walls. The Holy relics of Saint Anthony are placed in a silver reliquary and the entire Church is decorated with Byzantine frescoes. The old Cathedral dedicated to the Apostles Peter & Paul (11th century) with one of the greatest temples of the middle Byzantine period. We will continue to Panagia Soumela (20km 35 min), the spiritual center of the Pontian Hellenism. The first monastery was built at the end of 4th century (386AC) by Monks Varnavas & Sophronios in a cave into the mountain in Trabzon. The miraculous icon of Panagia was carved on wood by Luke the Evangelist. Before uprooting, the monks of the Holy Monastery hide the Icon together with the priceless Cross with the Holy Wood and a manuscript of Saint Christophoros in the cluster of Agia Barbara (they were buried in the courtyard). In 1931 Monk Ambrosios brought them to Greece and in 1951 the construction of the new Panagia Soumela in Vermio began. Depart for Kalambaka (165km 2hrs 20min) Overnight in Kalambaka

After breakfast the trip continues with a visit the spectacular Meteora, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a mountainous region of stunning scenery. Their history goes bacκ to the 14th century when the monks sought refuge in the cliffside caves then fled higher to build the original wooden shelters which later were transformed into monasteries. You will see hundred-year-old Byzantine monasteries on top of huge rocks, during the Middle Ages, first built in the 14th century by monks seeking isolation and salvation. We will visit the two of the monasteries, the Holy Monastery of St Stephen & St Varlaam. Arrive in Athens late in the afternoon. Overnight in Athens

Today we will explore the city of Athens. Athens is one of the most glorious cities in the world and the cradle of western civilization as we know it today. We will visit the main points of interest in the city: the Acropolis, the Parthenon and Mars’ Hill (Areopagus) where Paul preached the truth to the Gentile Nation. Continue with the bus tour of the city passing by Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian´s Arch, Panathenaic Stadium, Constitution square, the Parliament and the Memorial of the Unknown Soldier, the Library, the Academy. Continue with a walking round the historical churches in Athens. first stop is the Russian Church, the Holy Church of Lykodemos Sotira is one of the oldest and largest Byzantine churches in Athens. Next stop, on this enchanting tourist route, is the Metropolitan Church of Athens, a beacon of religious and architectural significance. As visitors step inside, they are greeted by a remarkable sight: The Holy relic of Gregory V. Next is Kapnikarea Church will be the final stop and it stands out as a major landmark in Athens’ Byzantine past. Dating from the 11th century, the church lies in the middle of Ermou Street and is dedicated to the Presentation of the Virgin Mary. At Monastiraki square you will visit the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, or Pantanassa, was once called the Great Monastery in a 16th century, a barrel-vaulted basilica. Last stop is the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens, a stunning example of neoclassical architecture, influences by both Byzantine & Western architectural styles. Next to the Cathedral is the little church of the Virgin Mary Gorgoepikoos, known as little Metropolis. The walls of the Panagia Gorgoepikoos are constructed entirely of ancient marble blocks, many of which are decorated with interesting inscriptions and reliefs, dating from the classical period up through the medieval Byzantine. Overnight in Athens

Drive toward Dafni Monastery a UNESCO World Heritage site one of the most important Byzantine monasteries in Greece. Built in the 11th century, the monastery is renowned for its exquisite golden mosaics, which are considered masterpieces of Byzantine art. These mosaics depict scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary, showcasing remarkable detail and vibrant color that have withstood the test of time. Continue to Ancient Corinth (Acts 18.1-18). It was in ancient Corinth where Paul came and worked, established a thriving church and writing two of the epistles, which are now part of the New Testament. We will see all the sites that are associated with his ministry: the Agora, the Temple of Apollo, the roman Odeon, the Bema and Gallio’s seat, the pillars, stairs, and the place of public worship, where Paul preached. All these visits will certainly enhance the understanding of Corinthians I and II. Before ending the tour and return to Athens, we will visit the ancient Greek port of Cenchrea (Acts 18:18) where Paul was during his second missionary journey and the ruin of the early Christian 5th Century Basilica. On the way back we will visit the Monastery of Saint Patapios a revered site of Orthodox pilgrimage, known for its spiritual significance and breathtaking views of the Corinthian Gulf. The monastery houses the relics of Saint Patapios, a 4th-century monk known for his healing miracles and deep faith. His relics, preserved in a sacred shrine, continue to attract pilgrims seeking spiritual comfort and healing. The monastery is a place of peace and prayer, surrounded by natural beauty and offering a sense of spiritual renewal. Return to Athens in the afternoon for dinner and overnight. Overnight in Athens

Breakfast. Free time till check-out. Transfer to Athens airport for departure flight back home