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Photographer's Note

There are two small villages on Mount Athos (the ‘capital’ of Karyes and the port of Daphne), twenty principal monasteries, twelve sketae, kellia, kathismata, hermitages, and a number of isolated towers, warehouses, and boathouses.
The twenty Athonite monasteries resemble mediaeval cities, built as they are in precipitous locations, fortified with strong walls, and with one or two entrances and a spacious open area within the walls. In this area, the courtyard, are the katholikon (main church), the phiale for the blessing of the waters, the refectory, and various chapels; and it is surrounded by the monks’ cells, the abbot’s quarters, and all the auxiliary structures. Each monastery is a large complex with its own character, consisting of many buildings constructed in different periods and in different architectural styles and showing different influences.
The founders and benefactors of the monasteries were emperors, high-ranking officials, and princes, who unstintingly gave the financial assistance needed to rebuild and repair the monasteries.

(http://www.macedonian-heritage.gr/Athos/General/Architecture.html)

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Additional Photos by Vasilis Protopapas (vasilpro) Gold Star Critiquer/Gold Star Workshop Editor/Gold Note Writer [C: 2695 W: 90 N: 4655] (37442)
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