Mount Athos is a visiting card of the Halkidiki peninsula in northeastern Greece. The peninsula juts out in a southeast direction from the mainland, and as it deepens into the Aegean Sea, its flat relief gives way to hills and rocks. The rocky mountain range is crowned by Agion Oros (holy mountain) - Mount Athos, rising 2033 m above sea level.
In addition to Mount Athos, a feature of the Chalkidiki peninsula is the presence of the deepest abyss of the Aegean Sea (drop 80-1070 meters).
Interestingly, the peninsula itself is also called Mount Athos and is an independent administrative unit of Greece (officially it is called the autonomous monastic state of the Holy Mountain). There are more than 20 Christian monasteries and many churches here - it is believed that this area is the lot of the Mother of God on earth. Nevertheless, the mountain owes its name to the ancient Greek hero - the giant Athos, who threw a rock at Poseidon (one of the legends mentions that there is Poseidon's tomb on the mountain).
A later tradition tells that in 49 AD. the beauty of these places amazed the Virgin Mary so much that she asked God for permission to receive this land. The request was granted, and since then the lot of the Mother of God has been here, where she created a beautiful garden and a haven for all those striving for salvation.
The mild Mediterranean subtropical climate is conducive to the lush growth of vegetation. The entire peninsula is covered with forests and fields with lush vegetation. Vineyards and olive plantations alternate with oak and coniferous forests; apple trees, pears, citrus fruits, walnuts, and cherries are grown in the gardens. The exception is the rocky spurs located in the southern part. In the vicinity of the Holy Mountain, there are many plane trees, and with an increase in the relief, their groves turn into heather wastelands.
Features of Mount Athos
Holy Mount Athos is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but not everyone will be able to get acquainted with all of its shrines. The fact is that the monastic community prohibits all female representatives from entering their territory, including not only people, but also animals. It turns out that the road to the greatest representative of their sex, the Virgin Mary, is closed to women.
Sightseeing
Even if you are a man, it will be difficult to get to the Holy Mountain - no more than 120 people who have received a special permit (visa) are allowed there every day. Therefore, the best way to get to know all the monasteries is by boat trip around the peninsula. But if you do decide on an overland pilgrimage, pay attention to the Russian monastery of St. Panteleimon and one of the oldest temples - the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos (335). Also, be sure to visit the Great Lavra (960) and Vatopediu (972) - these are the largest monasteries in the community.
