Timios Prodromos Monastery, Serres: a holy place in Kerkini - Macedonia | mystic Greece
Holy Monastery of Timios Prodromos (Hermitage of St. John the Baptist), Akritochori Serres
In a wonderful location in Macedonia, in Akritochori Serron, is located the Hermitage of St. John the Baptist. The new church of the Hermitage was built exclusively with naturally occurring materials. Its construction faithfully followed Byzantine ecclesiastical architecture as well as the traditional building methods used in ancient times.
According to the authentic ancient technique the church was built with stone, lime, and pozzolan, cement-free. For the mortars they only used volcanic land, lime and aggregates of the region.
The imposing Monastery of St. John the Baptist is unique in character and overlooks the lake Kerkini in Akritochori. It follows the ritual of Mount Athos and is a nun monastery. If you are in the area, drop buy, light a candle and make your prayer. The nuns are very welcoming and it is peaceful inside.
Kerkini Lake is affected by major traffic routes. Along the north shore runs the national road 65 from Kilkis in the west on the south and east bank of Lake Doiran through the valley of the river Kerkinitis about Rodopoli, Neochori, Mandraki, Akritochori, Vyronia and Neo Petritsi on the National Road 63 (European Route 79) and flows into it Crossing the Strymona. The national road 63 leads from Serres via Sidirokastro to Promachonas to the Bulgarian border and subsequently further on Bulgarian territory to the capital of Bulgaria, Sofia. Parallel to this road runs the railway line Sofia-Thessaloniki to the intersection of national roads 63 and 65 at Neo Petritsi. The route to Thessaloniki pivots west along the northern shore of Lake Kerkini, the railway line to Serres, Alexandroupolis, Edirne and Istanbul runs to the south-southeast at a considerable distance to the eastern shore of Lake Kerkini. The national road 63 will be replaced by the highway 12 until 2010 (or 2012), which will directly connect Bulgaria with Thessaloniki. On the western shore of the lake there is only one minor road from Kerkini in the north to Lithotopos in the south.
Welcome to Serres – the town in Northern Greece that’s seen it all and has risen like a phoenix from the ashes of every catastrophe it’s ever faced. What’s its secret? You’ll discover it in the enchanting Lailia Forest, in the shade from the leafy trees at Agii Anargyri. You’ll taste it in its famous sweets and in the scent of its ouzos. You’ll recognise it in its people, who fill the nights with fun and games, and in its women who are renowned for their beauty. You’ll find that Serres will keep its promise to give you a holiday to remember.
What to do in Serres
Travel to the valley of Agii Anargyri
This lovely park infuses Serres with colour and fresh air. With cascades, brooks, spreading plane trees, an artificial lake, restaurants and cafes, it’s a perfect holiday destination for walks and picnics, especially in spring and summer.
Koulas Hill
This pine-covered hill overlooking town is not just an attractive backdrop, it contains the ruins of a once mighty Byzantine acropolis. Climb up to admire the view and you’ll also see the western tower of the fortress, Orestes’ tower, which was part of the inner wall. An inscribed foundation stone dates it to 1350, during the reign of the Serbian king Stefan Dusan.
The pristine beauty of Lailia
Go just 25km north of Serres and you’ll find yourself in the Lailia Forest, 330 hectares of pine and beech forest at an altitude of 1,849m above sea level at its highest peak, which has the unusual name of Ali Baba. The forest is a genuine paradise, home to 514 types of flora. It has been declared a Natural Monument and a region of particular Natural Beauty. Enough said. Go to this corner of Macedonia and see for yourself.
Skiing or après-ski?
If you want to ski, the Serres centre’s the place to go for great slopes and even greater fun afterwards. In its bars, clubs, cafes, restaurants, ouzeris and the famous souvlaki stands, you’ll feel the pulse and join the locals in having a good time.
The sweets of Serres
Dusted with sugar, they look like Turkish delight, but they’re quite different. They’re called akanes and what sets them apart is fresh goat butter and spring water from Lailia. For the real thing, there are a number of traditional confectionary stores in Serres that will have you drooling in no time.
A great place for excursion in Greece. Magic nature and activities! Do not miss it
#orthodox #holyplaces #mysticgreece
Μονή Τίμίου Προδρόμου, Ακριτοχώρι Σερρών-Monastery of Timios Prodromos, Akritohori Serres
akritochori lake wilga2000
Greece 4K Travel Guide: Kerkini lake natural park, top attractions & activities | Land of myths
Ecotourism at its best in one of the most important wetlands in Europe
Who was it who said that when man intervenes in nature, the results are invariably disappointing? Lake Kerkini refutes that statement 100%. It’s a lake born after a dam was built in 1932 and with the passage of time, it has metamorphosed into a veritable Macedonian paradise. Enjoy the pleasures of ecotourism: A sanctuary for birds and humans alike, the calm, unruffled lake offers itself for birdwatching and boating, while its shores are perfect for cycling and walks. Try Kerkini for the pause that refreshes.
Thousands of creatures, one ecosystem
Kerkini can’t help but fascinate, as the whole setting seems lifted from a nature channel documentary. Here on holiday in Macedonia, you too can play a role in the scenario, as you become part of the interaction between people and animals, birds and trees, fields and reed beds, water and fish. Everything coexists in this peaceful kingdom in a delicate yet dynamic balance.
Time for birdwatching
If you’re a ornithologist, you’ll think you’ve died and gone to heaven at Kerkini. Flocks of Dalmatian pelicans, herons of all kinds, pygmy cormorants… all frequent the area. In fact, more than 300 species have been identified here, many of them endangered. For more birds of a different feather, including raptors, take your binoculars up to Mts Beles and Krousia just north of the lake. The heart of ecotourism beats here in Macedonia.
Paddle your own canoe
Grab your paddles, your friends and take to the water in a canoe (large enough for three) or a plava, the traditional flat-bottomed craft used by local fishermen, and explore the beguiling world of Kerkini. These boats are ideal for skimming over shallow water between half-submerged trees and clusters of reeds. Unsure of your skills? Join a lake tour.
Cycling around the lakeside villages
The land around the lake is flat, just right for a bike ride or gentle walk to get to know the district’s quiet villages. First stop, Kerkini, with its pleasant low buildings and broad streets. Next, Lithotopos, where you can see how the lake was created. A paved road will take you to a spot just above the dam. When you get to Lithotopos’s little port, get off your bike. The woods here are ideal for a walk.
The forest of Kerkini
Just the place for an ecological adventure. In a 4x4 or on foot – to avoid the risk of getting stuck in the mud – set off to discover a place of special beauty; water lily ponds, cormorants’ nests and a rich world of birds and flowers.
Ano Poria, for a change of scene
This village, nestled amidst incomparable scenery at the foot of Mt Beles, is the most developed in this hilly area. Here you’ll find cosy hotels, cafes and tavernas. Akritohori also has hotels and is near the Timios Prodromos monastery, which should also be on your must-see list.
The image of the clouds reflected on the calm water’s surface shatters into a thousand pieces as the horses gallop on the shallow edges, splashing water around, next to the wild willows.
Water buffalos swim blissfully against a majestic, fairytale backdrop as huge squadrons of wild birds of all kinds animate the dramatically colored sky.
Welcome to Kerkini lake!
A breath-taking place in the shadow of Belles Mountain – just 40 Km from the town of Serres and about 100 Km from Thessaloniki – which was formed when, in 1932, a water dam was built and the area was flooded. Today this man-made wetland has been declared as a National Park according to the Ramsar Convention and it is one out of the ten wetlands of International Importance in Greece. It is also part of the European Natura 2000 network and one of the most important, in terms of its biodiversity, wetlands in Europe.
Kerkinis’ Ecosystem
Minimal human intervention has allowed nature to thrive in these waters. The riparian vegetation, forests of wild willows and the suspended water-lilies expand on a surface of thousands hectares, blanketing one of the top European bird-watching destinations. About 300 bird species have been observed here: some of them nest here, some spend the winter, others stop over for rest or food; among them, you can spot the Pelican and the Pygmy Cormorant which are threatened with extinction. The area also hosts the most important cormorant and heron colonies of the Balkan Peninsula. The waters are teeming with diverse fish and water buffalos that contribute to the ecosystem’s equilibrium and – with their milk and cheese – to the delicious offerings of the local cuisine.
#mysticgreece #naturelovers #exoticgreece
macchi 33 Ακριτοχώρι Σερρών
fly and crash
μονη τιμιου προδρομου Ακριτοχωρι σερρων
μονη τιμιου προδρομου Ακριτοχωρι σερρων
Οδοιπορικό στην Ιερά Μονή Τιμίου Προδρόμου στο Ακριτοχώρι Σερρών
Οδοιπορικό στην Ιερά Μονή Τιμίου Προδρόμου στο Ακριτοχώρι Σερρών
4K Greece: TOP 10 destination & traditional villages for Autumn - Complete Travel Guide
Greece is a beautiful country all year long!
These are the Top 10 Greek Destinations for the Autumn [SHARE]:
- Tithorea: a traditional village settled at the norteastern hillside of Parnassos mount at 440 m. height. Among the houses, ruins of ancient fortification can be seen. A green paradise can be found south of the village, a natural park full of oaks, pine trees etc, which naturists will adore.
- Despite its name, there is nothing stagey about the reception that awaits you in Drama. After you gaze up at Mount Falakro (Bald Mountain), allow the hospitable locals to introduce you to its attractions. In Agia Varvara park, bubbling springs flow into canals and ponds, watering ancient trees and reminding you of nature’s pure beauty.
- Agios Ioannis, a picturesque village on mount Parnon, in northern Kynouria, Arcadia in Peloponnese, Greece. Don't miss the Lepida stunning waterfalls!
- Plastiras Lake: A miracle of both man and nature in Thessaly. The impressive dam in Kakavia created Lake Plastiras, one of the biggest artificial lakes in Greece and, framed by the fir tree peaks of the Agrafa Mountains, one of the most beautiful. Enjoy your holiday biking around the lake, kayaking, rock climbing and hiking, horseback riding and 4x4 adventures.
- Northern Euboea: An authentic paradise! It's northern part is full of forests, outstanding nature, rivers, waterfalls, interesting villages and luxury thermal spa, surrounded by the greek blue!
- Kerkini lake, Serres: Lake Kerkini in Northern Greece, one of the most important wetlands in Europe, is considered to be one of the top European bird watching destinations. About 300 bird species have been observed here: some of them nestle, some winter, others stop over for rest or food. Among them, the Pelican and the Pygmy Cormorant are threatened with extinction. The area is also one of the most important cormorants’ and herons’ colonies of the Northern Balkan Peninsula.
- Trikeri: a secret miracle at the southern Pelion peninsula, in central Greece: History, harmony and great views are gathered all together waiting for the visitors to taste them.
- Trikala: Ascending from Xylokastro to Trikala Korinthias and having a run among olive groves and vineyards, you will meet the villages Riza, Pellini, Dendro,Rethi, and 25km from Xylokastro, the settlements Kato, Mesaia and Ano Trikala. The name Trikala seems to come from the three goods the area offers: 1. Clean air, good climate without moisture, 2. Vineyards producing very good wine, 3. Affluent spring waters with a special taste.
- Papigo: The famous Zagorohoria: Stone villages, bridges and monasteries, masterpieces of architecture, culture and history, humanity and nature in harmony. Towering mountains, virgin forests and impressive gorges; a wild and evocative landscape. Zagorohoria – to give the area its full name – is a cluster of stone villages, masterfully constructed bridges and monasteries carved into the mountains. It’s a pure and seductive holiday destination for all seasons. You’ll discover its beauty walking along the Vikos Gorge, staring up at the Astrakas Mountain peak, listening to the rumble of the Voidamatis River and admiring impressive Mt Timfi.
You’ll feel it walking with your lover or friend in the mystical fog of Papingo, visiting the old monasteries and churches, or just relaxing by the fireplace in a luxurious guesthouse. Zagori is a priceless treasure waiting to be discovered.
- Pozar thermal spa: Loutraki Thermal Springs (Pozar or Aridaia)
At the foot of Mt Voras, in the valley Agios Nikolaos, lie the Pozar thermal springs. The thermal river Toplitsa wells up from crevasses in the rock and forms small waterfalls and natural ponds with the water temperature at a constant 37 degrees. Seize the moment for a complete revitalization at the natural spas of Pozar, famed for healing properties since ancient times. Besides the natural ponds, you have the opportunity to ensconce yourself in private baths filled with spring water. It all boils down to hours of relaxation and rest in a landscape of unparalleled natural beauty.
Ein Sprung in die heißen Thermalquellen ist eine herrliche Erfahrung nicht nur für müde Wanderer. Die natürlich warmen Pools liegen an wunderschönen Flüssen und schneebedeckten Tannenwäldern. Wasserdampf steigt aus den Quellen empor – es ist das ultimative Spa von Mutter Natur. Aridaia bietet aber noch viel mehr in Ihrem Urlaub: Schluchtenwandern, Klettern und Bergsteigen. Nichts ist unmöglich in den Pózar-Thermalbädern, hauptsache Sie reisen nach Makedonien.
#topdestinations #exoticgreece #mysticgreece
ΠΟΝΤΙΑΚΟΙ ΧΟΡΟΙ ΣΤΗΝ ΠΛΑΤΕΙΑ ΑΚΡΙΤΟΧΩΡΙΟΥ
Κυριακή 3 Ιουνίου 2012.
Το Ακριτοχώρι είναι χτισμένο στους καταπράσινους πρόποδες του όρους Μπέλλες και βρίσκεται σε υψόμετρο 130 μέτρων πάνω από τη θάλασσα. Από το χωριό διέρχεται το Διεθνές Μονοπάτι Ε4 - 6 που καταλήγει στη γέφυρα του ποταμού Στρυμόνα για να συνεχίσει ανατολικά. Το χωριό είναι πανελλήνια γνωστό για το Ιερό Ησυχαστήριο του Τιμίου Προδρόμου.
Όλοι σχεδόν οι κάτοικοι είναι ποντιακής καταγωγής από τις περιοχές Πάφρας και Σαμψούντας.
Οι Αργοναύτες Κιλκίς στο Ακριτοχώρι Σερρών .
Κυριακή 22 Ιουλίου 2012.
Παν. Αρχ. Εσπερινός Παναγίας Μάγαρα - ΑΚΡΙΤΟΧΩΡΙ
ΠΑΝΑΓΙΑ ΜΑΓΑΡΑ: Μονή στο βουνό Νεπιέν της Πάφρας κοντά στο χωριό Οτ Καγιά, λέγονταν και Παχατσάχ Παναγιασί (όνομα τούρκικο που σημαίνει «η Παναγιά που κάνει τον τυφλό να βλέπει») σήμερα σε πολλούς είναι γνωστή σαν ματωμένη σπηλιά.
Το μοναστήρι αποτελούσε θρησκευτικό κέντρο της περιοχής και υπήρξε μαρτυρικός τόπος μιας μεγάλης μάχης, τον Απρίλιο του 1917.
Η ΑΝΑΒΙΩΣΗ
Στις 22 Ιουλίου 2008 μεταφέρθηκε στον Ιερό Ναό Αγίου Κωνσταντίνου και Ελένης η νέα εικόνα της Παναγίας Μαγαράς.
Η πρωτοβουλία για τη δημιουργία της νέας εικόνας ανήκει στον κ.Νικο Μαυρίδη που κατάγεται από το Ακριτοχώρι.
Η νέα εικόνα είναι δωρεά και αγιογραφήθηκε από τις μοναχές του Ιερού Ησυχαστηρίου Τιμίου Προδρόμου Ακριτοχωρίου Το ξυλόγλυπτο προσκηνιτάρι της εικόνας είναι δωρεά του συλλόγου μας, του ΟΙΚΟΛΟΓΙΚΟΥ ΠΟΛΙΤΙΣΤΙΚΟΥ ΠΟΝΤΙΑΚΟΥ ΣΥΛΛΟΓΟΥ ΑΚΡΙΤΟΧΩΡΙΟΥ-ΘΡΑΚΙΚΟΥ «ΟΙ ΑΚΡΙΤΕΣ». Ενώ η ακολουθία είναι του δρος Χαραλάμπου Μ.Μπούσια μεγά Υμνογράφου της των Αλεξανδρέων Εκκλησίας με τίτλο «ΑΚΟΛΟΥΘΙΑ ΤΗΣ ΥΠΕΡΑΓΙΑΣ ΘΕΟΤΟΚΟΥ ΕΠΟΝΟΜΑΖΟΜΕΝΗΣ ΜΑΓΑΡΑΣ ΤΗΣ ΕΝ ΤΗ ΕΠΑΡΧΙΑ ΠΑΦΡΑΣ ΤΟΥ ΠΟΝΤΟΥ ΝΥΝ ΤΙΜΩΜΕΝΗΣ ΕΝ ΑΚΡΙΤΟΧΩΡΙΩ ΣΙΝΤΙΚΗΣ»
Παραθέτουμε απόσπασμα της Ακολουθίας.
Ήχος ά Των ουρανίων ταγμάτων
Καταφυγή των Ποντίων,
Θεογεννήτρια,
παφραίων η προστάτις,
αντιλήπτωρ ταχεία,
φρουρός και παραστάτις εν τοις δεινοίς
σπηλαιώτισσα Δέσποινα
η κλήσιν έχουσα Μάγαρα προσφυώς,
σκέπε πάντας τους τιμώντας σε.
Φρουρός, ακέστορ σκέπη
και μέγα στήριγμα
Παφραίων Χριστωνύμων,
και Ποντίων απάντων
της Μάγαρα Παρθένε, σκέπε πιστούς
νυν είς Ακριτοχώριον
ασπαζομένους εικόνα σου την σεπτήν,
χαριτόβρυτε Παντάνασσα.
Κάθε χρόνο στις 22-23 Ιουλίου εορτάζεται η έλευση της νέας εικόνας στην εκκλησία του χωριού και διοργανώνονται πολιτιστικές εκδηλώσεις από τον Σύλλογό μας.