church
The little wooden church (Our Lady of Czestochowa)
This little church was built entirely of wood in 1847. Not much information is available about this church (well not that I can find), but it is dedicated to Saint Klemens, and is often known as the “old church”. It is a lovely place to spend a few minutes in quiet contemplation, and to get away from the business of the shops and markets in Zakopane.
Church of Agios Demetrios Loumbardiaris
This church is easy to miss. You have to walk up the road towards the Acropolis and pass directly past the entrance and walk into the woods of Filopappou Hill. Just on your right you’ll find this wonderful church.
And if you are energetic, walk to the top of the hill. You’ll find the best view of the Acropolis in Athens, and you’ll be completely alone (so maybe take somebody with you – just in case).
Cathedral Of Saint Nectarios
The Church Of Saint Nectarios in Aegina is a surprisingly modern building. It was built in the 1970’s, but its history goes further back than that – the ministry dates back from the early 1900’s.
It is a lovely quiet and peaceful place to wonder around, or to sit and contemplate in the shaded walkways. The monastery was built in 1904, you can easily visit the ministry by climbing the stairs at the back of the main building, and that is where you can find the relics of Saint Nectarios. Saint Nectarios is a well-known Greek saint, and when you visit the much smaller ministry it can get a little more crowded with many people visiting the relics.
I love the pastel terracotta colours of the buildings, they feel so much cooler in the hot Greek weather.
St Peter’s Church, Vienna
St Peter’s Church is in the middle of Vienna’s old town. I went to visit because every day they put on a free organ recital, and when I went to visit I was delighted to hear Bach’s Toccata and Fugue, which is my favourite piece organ music.
The recital is usually at 3pm, but best to check the full programme on their website.
Get their early (or linger a little after), because the inside is magnificent, and you can easily spend an hour wondering around inside.
I hope I was allowed to make a recording, because here it is.
Church of the Holy Apostles
This church, which is found in the ancient Agora in Athens, dates to the 10th century. It is one of only 2 buildings from the Agora to survive intact.
Some of the original wall paintings still survive, and almost nobody goes into it. So if you want a few cool and quiet minutes in the busy Athens it is the perfect spot to spend a few solitary minutes.
