The last of Amorgos

I'm sorry these photos come out totally backward to my story. I will work on managing them better.... I hope.

July 28
We are still in Amorgos because of the strong gale winds outside our bay. It makes one realize that a two week sailing trip could be pretty limited if you wanted to be at a certain island on a certain day. We are definitely glad we can take time to sit out heavy seas and strong winds.

Jim and I went ashore this a.m. and caught a bus to take us high on the hillside to a Chora (old town) and a monastery which is built right into the side of a cliff, high above the sea.

The bus is very modern and comfortable. The ride is only 5 km, the road is paved and full of switchbacks so it was an interesting ride. The bus drivers do a great job of managing the corners and other traffic.

We arrived at the Chora and had a quick look around but decided to go to the monastery first. That meant another quick bus ride over the hill. The walk up to the monastary involves at least 300 stairs. It was an incredible sight and experience. Once we arrived at the doorway we had to be sure we were dressed properly – long pants and shirt for Jim, skirt and nothing sleeveless for Pat.

We were directed to climb yet more flights of stairs to the top of the monastery where 2 small chapel rooms were situated. It was moving to watch young and old alike go through their religious rites, crossing themselves three times, kissing icons, lighting small candles as they said a prayer.
We thought that was the end of the visit but we were then directed up another flight of narrow, steep stairs where we were treated to a confection similar to turkish delight and a young lad also offered us a small liqueur and a glass of water. A very hospitable gesture – and for no admission fee! As we decended the staircase again we were directed to a viewing room where they displayed quite a number of ancient artifacts.

The monastery is only 5 metres across, probably 5 stories high, and is an active monastery and place of worship. Another stunning impression of something built about 1080.

After decending the walkway, we took a bus to the chora and walked through its streets. So many white buildings and stone paved walkways. Many of the cafes had a row of chairs and tables tight against the walls of their building. We explored and then chose one place to have another Greek lunch. Jim had roasted lamb and I had a tomato salad (tomatoes, herbs and olive oil) and moussaka. We enjoyed it thoroughly.

Suddenly it was time to get on the bus and go back to our town and dingy out to our anchored boat.
It had been a marvelous day but we were tired. Again, lots of sun but also lots of winds.