Osios Loukas Monastery - The Crypt

If you go downstairs, you will see the richly decorated crypt of the monastery: With its wide vault and floral as well as geometrical motives, it is surely an inspiring place, even if it may be a bit dark.

This is the gravestone (taphos) of the holy man Loukas, though his body is preserved in the main nave of the church, under glass to be visible for pilgrims. The meandering decorative pattern on the outside is completed by a Latin (!) cross in the middle, and an icon on top finishes the artwork.

Going back to the outside, you can explore the paths leading around the monastery, walk through arches and go behind the scenes, figuratively speaking.

Climbing a small hill next to the monastery, you have a great view over the surrounding countryside. The high mountains and dry landscape in the ramote area make this place very suited for isolated hermits; still, many people came to be healed by Loukas.

A final part will follow!

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