The city of Florina “decorated” with shiny snowflakes

 

In the heart of Florina, winter transforms the landscape into a place of miracles and the monasteries located in this snowy paradise become even more hospitable. This Christmas and until the end of winter, embark on a journey to the serene beauty and deep spirituality of the monastic retreats of Florina, where time seems to stop. Monasteries and churches bear witness to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Monasteries, such as those of St Mark’s and the Dormition of the Virgin Mary – Kladorrachi, which once in their blessed embrace, hosted heroes of the Macedonian Struggle and St Cosmas of Aetolo Ardassis on the outskirts of Mount Askion, invite you to discover them.

 

 

Open your heart to God by praying reverently in the many churches of Florina, such as the glorious Metropolitan Church of Agios Panteleimon and the historic Agios Georgios, where the first Doxology and Divine Liturgy after the liberation of the region in 1912 was celebrated.

The brilliant Orthodox Metropolitan Church of St Panteleimon

 

As winter covers the landscape with a virgin blanket of snow, close your eyes and imagine waking up to the silence of a white morning in Florina. Outside your window, landscapes “decorated” with glittering snowflakes and the fresh air mixing with “notes” of smoky wood from the fireplaces and stoves of the houses. The monasteries exude a warm and welcoming aura that transports you to a world of peace and contemplation. Inside, centuries-old hagiographies and psalms “bring to life” the story of the Birth of Christ, filling the souls of all with the joyful message of the salvation of the world.

 

The ruins of the Monastery of Agios Achilleios, on the homonymous island of the frozen lake of Little Prespa

 

Climb the hill of Agios Panteleimon to get close to the huge emblematic “Cross” of Florina – over 30 meters high, next to the chapel of the Transfiguration of the Saviour. Your reward is a wonderful view from above to the city of Florina, with the river Sakuleva crossing it and the Macedonian mansions with red roofs composing a fairytale landscape.

 

Look for small earthly paradises away from the city, near lakes that nature has generously endowed with divine beauty. About an hour away, the ruins of the Monastery of Agios Achilleios, on the homonymous island of the frozen lake of Little Prespa, offer a peaceful refuge amidst lush landscapes, mountains rising around it like walls and a watery embrace surrounding it. The crossing of the floating footbridge from Agios Achillion to the nearest shore of the lake is a unique experience.

 

Wander through the rich gastronomic traditions of Florina. Enjoy local delicacies such as tzigari, pork cooked in the pot and warm up with homemade wine and tsipouro accompanied by fine delicacies.

 

From Christmas until the end of winter, the monasteries of Florina open their gates revealing the true spirit of the season. The dreamy, snowy landscapes you encounter, the ancient traditions that come alive, and the warm hospitality offered by the monks and locals come together to create a divine, solemn experience. An experience that will remain engraved in your heart long after the winter has passed, leaving you with indelible memories that will stay with you forever.