Holy Orthodox Metropolitan Church, Naxos (must see)

The Holy Orthodox Metropolitan Church stands as a testament to both faith and history, its roots extending back to the year 1787 when it was founded by Bishop Neophytos. This sacred edifice is devoted to Zoodochos Pigi, a Greek term signifying the life-giving source, an evocative reference to the Virgin Mary. Situated in close proximity to the ancient Grotta site and the Metropolis Museum, the cathedral occupies a unique place in time and space.

The cathedral's construction is a marvel in itself, showcasing a harmonious blend of materials culled from various temples and structures. A particularly intriguing detail is the use of graphite pillars, believed to have been transported from Delos, the venerable island steeped in ancient history and spirituality. These pillars, symbolizing the continuity of devotion through ages, stand as silent sentinels in the cathedral's architecture.

As one crosses the threshold into the cathedral's interior, a rich tapestry of history unfolds through a collection of icons that date back to the era of Ottoman sovereignty. These icons, lovingly preserved, serve as windows into the past, allowing worshippers and visitors to connect with the spiritual legacy of their forebears. Among the cherished relics, a gospel holds a special place; it is thought to have been gifted by Empress Catherine of Russia, a gesture that echoes the interconnectedness of faith across distant lands and cultures.

Outside the cathedral, the front area unveils another layer of history entwined with the sacred. Remnants of the 2nd and 1st millennium BC, including the tomb of Naxians from that era, have been unearthed, offering a glimpse into the lives and rituals of ancient peoples. These relics, like echoes from the distant past, emphasize the continuity of human quest for the divine and the sanctified.