Panagia Ikonistria

We briefly stop off at the tiny Panagia Ikonistria monastery between beaches. Cared for by a tiny, old lady, it is full of icons, strong local coffee and cats – perfect! Hubby’s made another fuzzy feline friend!

Panagia Evangelistria

The Monastery of the Annunciation, commonly known as the Evangelistria Monastery, is a monastery dedicated to the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary which sits on a hillside some 4 km north of Skiathos town. The monastery was founded in 1794 by a group of Kollyvades monks, who had left the monastery of Mount Athos afterContinue reading “Panagia Evangelistria”

Sri Mariamman Temple

Sri Mariamman Temple dates back to 1827 and is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. Beneath the imposing gopura are huge wooden doors. Their massive size is quite deliberate, designed to remind the worshippers of their insignificance in comparison to the divine. Devotees believe that ringing the bells on the doors will bring good luck.Continue reading “Sri Mariamman Temple”

Sri Veeramakaliamman

Singapore is home to endless architectural and cultural delights and the area known as Little India is no exception. We’re heading to one of the most historic, colourful temples in the area – Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. The temple, found onSerangoon Road is one of the oldest temples in Singapore. The incredibly ornate entrance is knownContinue reading “Sri Veeramakaliamman”

Religious art

The Cathedral of Santa Maria, or the the Cathedral of Cagliari, has an incredibly ornate interior with geometric marble inlay creating mesmerising patterns. Heading underground to the crypt you come to the Martyrs’ Sanctuary, so called because there are around 179 niches containing the relics of the martyrs of Cagliari. Heading back into the cityContinue reading “Religious art”

Mountain villages

Hiring a car we’re off to explore the mountainous interior of Kos for a few days now. First on our trip is a visit to the Monastery of Agios Ioannis. This stunning little building is a revelation at the end of a non-descript road. This tiny gem is covered from floor to ceiling with colourfulContinue reading “Mountain villages”

Last shrine scenes

Here’s some final pictures from the Daishoi-In Shrine on Miyajima island. This quirky little temple is chock a block with interesting sights. These little Buddhas demonstrate the concept of getting through life by ignoring everything! Within the shrine is a beautiful cave full of hundreds of lanterns. Henjokutsu Cave holds 88 principal Buddhist icons which are relatedContinue reading “Last shrine scenes”