Kythera is no exception to the general Greek landscape that is populated with small and large byzantine churches and chapels.
A great number of these churches is perched in hard to reach places. The building in this photo is only the gateway to the climb up the cliff where the chapel is nested.
Saint John on the Cliff is an impressive example of these places of worship.
Stelios and I were lucky to find that door open on our second try and we began the climb.
This is one of the caves on the way up.
The climb is rewarded with breathtaking views of the small village of Kapsali and the Hytra rock in the distance.
The winding rock stairs end at the door of the church.
The caretaker let us in to the small chapel built in the cave at the top. He was preparing for vespers on the occasion of the name day of Saint John the Theologian, whose cave this was and where it is said that he began writing the Apocalypse.
The feeling inside this little place of worship, where hundreds of people through the ages have come to lay their troubles or celebrate their joys is one of spirituality and mysticism. The passage of time is etched on the worn icons and templon, and the scent of burned candles.
There was a soft light filtered through the small window of the church that illuminated the icons.
Detail from the templon.
This view from the lone, small door of this place of worship in the sky, across to the remains of the Venetian castle of Kythera was a beautiful way to say goodbye.
This is one of those unique destinations that,once visited, become part of your soul.
Enjoy!
Maria
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