The Apostle Paul’s Mission To Thessalonica

/in ,

Thessalonica or Thessaloniki, was founded by Macedons King Cassander and is named after Alexander the Great’s half sister, Thessalonike. In 168 B.C. it became a city of the Roman Republic and a critical trading hub for the Roman Empire. Over time it eventually became the capital city of the Roman district it was located in; containing an amphitheater where gladiator shows were held as well as where circus shows were put on to amuse the public.

Paul’s Second Missionary Journey

On Paul’s journey to Greece, it was Timothy and Silas that accompanied Paul to Thessalonica. Upon arrival, they visited the chief Jewish synagogue for three Sabbaths explaining why Jesus is the Old Testament Savior (Acts 17:2-4); focusing on the resurrection of Christ. After hearing Paul’s message, many joined Paul and his companions but others were in an upheaval about what Paul was preaching. This led to a mob starting within the city that soon went after Paul, Silas and Timothy; resulting in them later escaping the city under the cover of night.

Paul himself did not spend much time in Thessalonica upon his first visit but nevertheless it is one of the churches that thrived the most according to the New Testament. After leaving Thessalonica, Silas and Timothy stayed in nearby Berea whereas Paul distanced himself. Eventually, he tried to revisit but was thwarted by Satan. (1Thess 2:18) Sending Timothy to check in with the church, Paul learns of its health which leads him to write his first letter in Corinth to the church. It wasn’t until a few years later that Paul was able to revisit. (Acts 20:1-6, Phil 4:16)

The apostle Paul’s mission to Thessalonica was to share with the people that Jesus was the Messiah.

Modern Thessaloniki

If your planning to visit Thessaloniki you will find a thriving and flourishing metropolis that houses many museums, shops and exquisite churches that speak volumes about their history. The central marketplace will offer lots of shops to browse through, the theater Odeion and not far from there you can walk beneath the Arch of Galerius; an infamous persecutor of Christians whose emperor status was established in Thessalonica towards the end of the 3rd century A.D. The Church of Agios is also a nearby where Galerius is known to have ordered the soldier Dimitrios to be put to death. The crypt of the Church of Agios is open to visitors who which to descend its steps.

Modern Thessalonki is renowned for its festivals, events and vibrant cultural life and is actually considered to be Greece’s cultural capital. Whether visiting for cultural purposes, exploring its history or simply to enjoy its sandy beaches, you will love what you see and be glad you came.

Historical Landmarks of Athens Greece You Must See

/in

There is no doubt that there is much to see when visiting Greece. Whether your there to take in the beauty of its natural surroundings or looking to discover ancient historical structures and monuments, Greece will not leave you disappointed. Some of the most magnificent and picturesque views and sights are located in Greece. Here are some historical landmarks of Greece you must see if you plan to visit.

The Parthenon Temple

Built in the middle of the 5th century, the Parthenon Temple, was built with the goddess Athena in mind as she was considered a patron to the people of Athens. It’s main function was to shelter Athenas’ monument, made of gold and ivory. Becoming a symbol of wealth and power, the Parthenon was the most luxurious temple of the Greek mainland during its time and is recognized today as one of the most symbolic structures of ancient Greece history.

Cathedral Of Athens

One of the largest original monuments in Athens was the Cathedral of Athens, also known today as the Metropolis Cathedral of the Annunciation, Athens. It is the church of the Archbishopric of Athens and all of Greece that hosts everything from notable weddings and funerals to important ceremonies where political figureheads are present. Its beauty is exquisite both internally as it is externally, constructed from the materials of over seventy abandoned or ruined churches. The building was completed in 1862 after its groundbreaking on Christmas day in 1842.

Athens First Cemetery

Who wouldn’t want to visit an ancient cemetery. It gives a twist to the typical vacation plans. This cemetery will not disappoint as it is rumored that an old wreath bearer still roams its grounds. During the day you can admire its many sculptures and see the resting sites of revolutionary heroes, poets, actors and political figures of the past. Dare you go at night, you may have a different experience.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is a former colossal temple at the center of Athens. Dedicated to the god of that time, Zeus, it was built during the fifth century B.C. and is one of the largest ever to be built during ancient times. Only a few columns of the temple exist today but it is clear by its sheer size just how large this temple originally was.

Ancient Agora of Athens

The ancient Agora of Athens is the most well known ancient Greek agora. In Greek, the word agora means ‘marketplace’. It’s where people gathered and where people gather still to take in the ancient remnants of its time. Not much is left to give a visual of what this agora once was but when you learn the history behind this ancient agora it is worth every moment you have to take it in.

These are just some of the historical landmarks in Greece that will make your visit worthwhile. If you plan to visit Greece and all that it has to offer, it’s always a good idea to make sure there is enough time on your trip to take in all there is to see or plan for a second visit!

Things To Do On A Christian Tour of Santorini

/in

Santorini, Greece is one of the Cyclades islands located in the Aegean Sea. In the16th century it was devastated by a volcanic eruption producing a very rugged landscape. It’s two chief towns are Fira and Oia which can be seen overlooking the sea as they cling to cliff sides that sit above an underwater crater known as the caldera. When visiting Santorini on your Christian tour of Greece, you will want to visit Oia Village, its sister town Fira, the Caldera rim and Skala. Here, we will discuss each place’s unique interest for those who plan to visit.

Oia Village and What It Has To Offer

Located on the northwestern tip of Santorini, the coastal town of Oia is lined in charming, whitewashed houses that carve into its rugged cliff side. It is the most famous of all the villages of Santorini; known for its spectacular sunsets and quiet, pedestrian village life. There are several cultural attractions to see when visiting Oia Village. The Maritime Museum, Panagia Platsani, St. Nicolas Castle, Windmills, Captains’ houses and Cave houses are all stops along your tour that you will want to visit while walking through Oia Village.

The Maritime Museum is a naval museum that showcases local seafaring history, a small library, items collected from the maritime life in the area and vestiges of a Venetian fortress. Panagia Platsani, also known as the Cathedral Church of Virgin Mary Platsani, stands within the main square of Oia. It was built after an earthquake in 1956 because the original church that stood there was destroyed. The remaining remnants of St. Nicolas Castle can be found on the tip of Oia at the northern end of the island. Originally built to protect the island in medieval times, it is easily recognizable as crowds of tourists flock to see this famous spot because of its jaw dropping view of the sunset.

Visible from the castle of St. Nicolas are the windmills that once served as a power source for making food. Presently, food is brought in from the mainland so they are no longer in use but they have been restored for attraction purposes that speak of the islands history. Captains’ houses, which are large, exquisite mansions in an array of colors are a historical attraction as famous Santorinian captains once lived there when traveling. These mansions were greatly affected by the 1956 earthquake so only a portion of them were restored but the memory of this part of the islands history is still very familiar with the locals.

The Town of Fira-Sister to Oia

Fira is the capital of Santorini. It offers more than a handful of museums, art galleries, churches and spots like the Old Port and Skaros Rock. If museums are of particular interest to you, the Museum of Prehistoric Thira displays an expansive collection of prehistoric items from the Neolithic to the Cycladic era. Fossils, figurines, jewelry, ceramics and more can be seen as you explore this museums incredible collection. If you need a break from the heat outside, this is the perfect place to come visit. If culture and history are your appeal than the Archaeological Museum of Thera will be high on your list of places to stop in Fira. This museum includes exhibitions dedicated to the Roman, Hellenistic and Geometric era. Here you can learn tons of interesting facts and discover artefacts of times past. The Megaro Gyzi Museum is another popular stop. A 17th century family mansion that was once a center for spiritual development which now houses music events, lectures and evening films.

A walk to Skaros rock provides breathtaking views along its hiking trails. Along with making this trek for the gorgeous sunsets, most people find it well worth the views and incredible pictures they get to take back home. Another well known trek is the 600 step stairway that leads from Fira to the Old Port. Here you will be immersed in tranquil scenery, take in its relaxed atmosphere and grab a bite to eat. You can work off the calories afterwards by ascending the steps once again or choose to take a cable car back to Fira. When in Fira, don’t forget to visit the local art galleries like MATI and Art of the Loom Gallery as well as Firas many churches like Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist and the Metropolitan Orthodox Cathedral. The architecture is just as gorgeous on the inside as it is on the outside.

The Caldera Rim

The Caldera Rim is essentially a hiking trail from Oia to Fira. Two of the main towns that rest upon Santorini. A caldera itself is a crater that is created after a volcanic eruption. Over 3500 years ago one of the largest volcanic eruptions known happened creating this particular caldera, or sunken crater, leaving us with the rim of the ancient volcano we now know as Santorini. The caldera is completely filled up by water and is the only sunken crater in the world. Attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, people come to admire this group of islands and all they have to offer.

Skala- Unique Greek Cuisine

If food and views are what you’re looking for than plan a stop at Skala, a tavern found in Oia that offers some of the best views of the Caldera and differentiates itself amongst other local fare. Its quality wines and stand alone plates are sure to leave you delightfully satisfied along with its picturesque views, charm and service.

The island of Santorini is just one of the many places you can visit on your Christian tour of Greece. Some other things to explore while on the islands are the beaches, cave houses, souvenir shops and more of the local eateries that Santornini has to offer.

Popular Attractions of Corinth, the Beloved City of Paul

/in ,

The ancient city of Corinth was well known as a place of trade as its location, in the center of the Greek Islands, was surrounded by rich soils, natural water sources and harbored two major ports (Lechaeum to the north and Cenchreae to the east); dominating trade in the Corinthian and Saronic Gulf. When Paul came to Corinth, what he discovered was just over 100 years old and roughly five times the size of Athens. Here Paul shared the gospel of Jesus Christ and ministered to the people of Corinth. Today, the ancient city sits just outside of modern day Corinth where you can find historical remains like the ruins of the Temple of Apollo.

Here are some of the most popular attractions of Corinth today.

The Corinth Canal

The Corinth Canal is what separates the Peloponnese from the mainland in Greece which some argue makes the peninsula an island. It connects the Corinth Gulf with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea, giving ships a route through the Isthmus of Corinth. It is a man made waterway built with the purpose of eliminating an extensive route around the Peloponnese peninsula. Prior to 1893, when the canal was completed, almost ten attempts were made to fulfill a vision that first started with Periander, a tyrant of Corinth in 602 B.C.

More than 2000 years later, this canal is the city’s main attraction. In order to get the best view you’ll want to see it from the land bridge, the Isthmus of Corinth . One of its most intriguing features, however, is the submersible bridge at the north-west end. This bridge can be lowered below the surface, allowing smaller ships and sailing boats to pass through, though it is too narrow for large ships.

Boat in Corinth Canal

Ancient Corinth Itself

Today, the ancient city of Corinth, sits about five kilometers northeast of it’s modern day sister city. A significant archaeological site revealing many wonderful treasures, it was once one of the most powerful cities as it monopolized two major sea ports, Lechaeum and Cenchreae, which eventually led to Corinth becoming a city-state. Something that ancient Corinth is commonly known for is being where Paul preached to the Corinthians and was inspired to write letters that we know as the first and second Corinthians of the New Testament; affirming the reality of Christ’s resurrection as the foundation of Christianity. With a history that stretches over 8000 years, Corinth is one of Greeces oldest cities where you will discover ruins of temples, baths, a forum and basilica and of course, one of its most common attractions, the Temple of Apollo.

Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo today is only a remnant of what it used to be. Built over an existing temple in the seventh century B.C., the Temple of Apollo was originally constructed with a total of 38 columns; 6 columns at either end and 15 columns lengthwise. Now, only 7 of its limestone columns remain; sitting atop Temple Hill where it is seen across the way from ancient Corinth. Named after the deity Apollo, the Greeks viewed him as the most beautiful and influential of all gods making this site an important monument in Greek mythology and it is one of the few Archaic Greek temples in the world left standing.

The Corinth Archeological Museum

The Corinth Archeological Museum is a small museum that houses finds from ancient Corinth’s archeological site. It was built in 1932 with additional add ons built in the 1950’s. The museum consists of four display rooms and a large courtyard. It’s main attractions are Corinthian pottery and ceramics, headless marble statues, mosaic floors and Neolithic finds that date back to the beginning of Corinth’s foundation. Everything that has been discovered in archeological digs of ancient Corinth and even neighboring areas have been collected and displayed at this museum.

Acrocorinth

Nestled on a steep rock you will find Acrocorinth, a castle rising above the southwestern side of Ancient Corinth. In medieval times it was a fortified acropolis, ensured through a system of three enclosures and separated by walls which were reinforced by towers and bastions. A prime example of fortified architecture, it bears construction details and decorative elements from centuries long ago. Inside its walls, the interior of the castle has preserved remains of a Venetian basilica, mosques, fountains and an underground Byzantine cistern; just to name a few.

Pauls beloved city of Corinth is just one of the gems that will inspire you among the Greek Islands. It’s historical roots are vastly rich and you’ll notice that even modern day culture is inspired and influenced by its ancient timeline. Follow the journeys of Paul through Greece on a Christian guided tour.

Patmos- Home of the Apocalypse and Why You Should Visit

/in ,

Patmos is a small island that sits most northern of Greece’s Dodecanese islands. A significant Christian pilgrimage site, this island is where John of Patmos (St. John the Theologian) is said to have written the Book of Revelations and received a vision of the Apocalypse. Located on the island is a 11th-century monastery that overlooks whitewashed houses of the hilltop capital, Hora (also known as Chora). Patmos is an ideal Greek destination for nature lovers of all kinds, as it is interwoven with coastlines, projects sheer cliffs and protrudes large rocky landscape from volcanic activity of times past. Here we will see why the island of Patmos is home of the Apocalypse and reasons why one should visit.

The Holy Cave of the Apocalypse

Revelation 1:9 (ESV) is a book of the Bible where Saint John speaks of the island Patmos saying, “I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and the kingdom and the patient endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.” It is said that the Book of Revelation was written in 95 A.D. in the Holy Cave of the Apocalypse where Saint John heard God speaking to him. In Revelation (6:9-11) John depicts the opening of the Fifth Seal at the end of time, and the distribution of white robes to “those who had been slain for the work of God and for the witness they had borne.”

A place of exile by the Romans because of its steep morphology, Patmos is where Saint John the Theologian found refuge during the 1st century when he was exiled by Emperor Domitian. However, it is not clear if John was imprisoned to live here or if he was banished. The Holy Cave of the Apocalypse, where John is known to have seen visions that were interpreted as the final days, is now enclosed by the Greek Orthodox Chapel of St. Anne, where devout Christians still worship.

The Holy Monastery of St. John

The Holy Monastery of St. John the Theologian was originally built as a fortress to protect from the threat of Pirates and Turks. It was built on top of the remains of a church and an earlier temple, Artemis. Constructed by Christodoulos in 1088, it overlooks the harbor in the town of Chora. This monastery is known as a place of worship to devout Christians and is the center of cultural and religious traditions like Holy Week and Easter celebrations. Comprised of ten chapels, ninety nine cells and a library, it has 890 handwritten codes and 13,000 documents about its history.

Chora

Chora, also known as Hora, spills out from the walls of the Monastery of St. John the Theologian. Numerous times, Hora of Patmos has been referred to as the queen of all Horas (many of the islands have villages called Hora) because of the monastery and Byzantine residences unique to the island. It is highly sought after by foreigners as the whitewashed houses, mansions, captains residences, narrow streets and alleyways date back to the 15th century giving Hora of Patmos a luxurious feel. During the day, the whitewashed houses actually reflect sunlight making it necessary to wear glasses and sunscreen mid day. Evening walks are often preferred as they impress a romantic ambiance.

Serene Beaches

Patmos is surrounded by beaches from every side. Some of these beaches can only be accessed via boat. Of the most popular beaches are Skala, Agriolivado and Livadi Geranou. Rainbow Beach is one worth visiting as it is filled with multi colored pebbles ranging from milky orange to a bright egg yolk yellow. The combination of all the colors are beautiful! Joined to the free standing rock of Kallikatsou is Petra, a sandy beach that speaks of legendary tales according to the locals. Whether you’re just looking to enjoy the sand or clear blue waters, there will be plenty of beaches to explore. All are uniquely impressive and rich in natural beauty.

Among the many reasons to take a tour of Greece, the island of Patmos is certainly one of them as its unparalleled landscape will leave any visitor desiring to come back. The history, beaches, culture and food are an experience one will not forget.

What To Expect From a Christian Greek Island Cruise

/in

If there is one thing that everyone can expect from a Greek Island Cruise, it would be their crystal clear blue-green waters. Tons of pictures flood our social media sites with picturesque Greek Island destinations. Cruising the Greek Islands with a Christian tour company adds even more to the experience for believers.  Whether it’s the beautiful white sands that make up the miles of shoreline along the seas, the rounded stone buildings that perch themselves amongst cliffs overlooking the ocean, experiencing the places that St. Paul walked or the vibrant city landscape on the mainlands you’re sure to take in breathtaking views of what to expect when visiting Greece.

Some of the things you can expect from your Greek Island cruise are:

  • The Greek Islands
  • Culture
  • Religion
  • City Life
  • Greek Cuisine

Visiting The Greek Islands

There are plenty of Greek Islands to explore along the Aegean and Ionian Seas. To the Cyclades, Dodecanese, Ionian islands, Crete or the islands of the Saronic Gulf; you’re sure to get your fill of everything that the Greek Islands have to offer. In Greece, summer begins in May and lasts until October. The blue seas, exotic beaches and secret coves never disappoint. There are over 14,800 kilometers of coastline and 408 beaches for you to discover and explore. The Aegean light that shines bright on the Greek islands is unlike anything you’ve ever seen and dipping into the Aegean Sea from whatever beach your feet have landed, will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. Whether your goal is to relax and soak up the sun or use your time windsurfing, kitesurfing or playing beach volleyball you undoubtedly will enjoy your visit.

Santorini Caldera Holiday Sea Lake View Fira

Culture

When visiting Greece you will go back at least 5,000 years where myth and history blur into a beautifully woven tapestry. The Acropolis of Athens and surrounding archaeological sites are home to many ancient civilizations. Ancient Olympia itself, is home to the Olympic Games and Delphi is the site of the famous oracle thought by the ancients to be the navel of the world. When visiting the ancient theatre at Epidaurus you will be inspired by its pitch perfect acoustics. Every ancient site in Greece is a timeless work of art telling a story that is sure to leave you with a greater knowledge of Greece’s history and culture and not only will you be able to take in pieces of history, you’ll also be delighted by Greece’s modern day art found all throughout its museums and art galleries.

Religion

Monasteries, churches, sacred places and pilgrimages are among many that tell of the long and enduring devotion to Orthodox Christianity in Greece. Upon arriving in Greece, whether on the mainland or visiting the Greek Islands, you will discover that religion and faith encapsulate this beautiful country. Over many centuries, Greeks have embodied the land with the strength and presence of Christianity; building monasteries, churches, chapels and magnificent architectural works. For Orthodox Christians, the monasteries in Greece are places of revered pilgrimages; authentic and timeless they symbolize the human attempt to transcend the earth. Often built on cliff sides over gorges or fortified resembling castles; they are almost always located in exquisite locations. Among these locations is Patmos, the beautiful, rocky island where the exiled St. John the Divine received the mystical Revelation which forms the last book of the New Testament. A professional Christian tour guide can enhance the experience with a Christian group tour and cruise of Greece  The monasteries of Agios Ioannis, Theologos on Patmos, Meteora and Mount Athos are just some of the famous pilgrimages in Greece you can visit.

Patmos Island, Origin of Book of Revelation

City Life

Rich history, modern vitality, incredible imagery, trendy boutiques filled with treasures and picturesque scenery is just a portion of what you will experience when walking through the streets of Greece. No matter where you are you are, Greece will come to life before your eyes and you will want to take in every single moment. Seaside restaurants serving fresh food, luxury resorts, hip cafes and bars just about everywhere you look, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your taste buds. Whether your shopping, dancing, tasting mediterranean fare or simply enjoying a few drinks there is so much to explore and enjoy in Greece. You will not be disappointed.

Greek Cuisine

Greece is blessed with an extraordinary diversity of land and seascapes, opening possibilities of every kind, including Mediterranean fare. Fresh produce and not to mention, copious amounts of olives can be found just about everywhere. New tastes, aromas, fruits and new combinations of food are sure to tantalize your senses. Mediterranean fare is an authentic cuisine and pairs well with wine, beer and spirits. Be sure to experience a traditional Greek breakfast and indulge in speciality dishes as they often have evolved over time, as new ideas have been introduced among traditional customs.

No matter where your travels through Greece may lead you, you will never turn a corner without discovering something new. Whether on the boat or on land, you will feel like your in paradise and wish you could stay longer. The greatest thing you can expect from a Greek Island Cruise is for it to take your breath away and have you planning to come back again. See some of the sites and experiences in video below of a Christian cruise through the Greek Isles.

 

The Journey of Paul Through Greece

/in ,

Although Paul was never one of the 12 disciples, he was considered an equal and noted as the Apostle of the Nations. One of his most famous religious routes was in Greece where he spread the word of Gods Kingdom; leaving behind a legacy that we read about today in the New Testament. Paul is known for his relatable personality and spreading the word of Christianity more than anyone else of his time. The journey of Paul through Greece is a historical pilgrimage of Gods faithful servant sharing the good news of Christ.

Pauls Journey to Philippi

Philippi was a leading city northwest of the nearby island, Thasos, in eastern Macedonia. It sat on a major Roman road known as the Via Egnatia and because of its strategic location it became a route for trade despite the fact that it was so close to the sea port of Neapolis. Philippi, previously known as Crenides, was established by Philip the ll in 356 BC but later abandoned in the 14th century after Ottoman conquest. It was started so that a military garrison could be placed for strategic passage. The modern day municipality of Filippoi is located near the ruins of the ancient city. Writings can be found discussing Rome’s civil war that came after Julius Caesar’s assassination.

It was in Philippi that Paul and his companion Silas are known for being imprisoned (Acts 16:23) and their jailor and his family being saved. During Paul’s time in Philippi, Paul shared the good news and even cast out demons. (Acts 16:16-40) Because of this, Paul and Silas were accused of provoking in the city and having unusual habits according to the Romans. Both men were flogged and put into prison, but later a large earthquake caused the doors of their prison cell to open. The jailor who was overseeing them became fearful that he would be accused of letting them get away and tried to commit suicide. Paul and Silas prevented him from harming himself and because of this, the jailor turned his life over to God and along with his family, was saved and baptized. Paul continued to stay in Philippi, accommodated at the jailors house as well as a woman by the name of Lydia, who was a wealthy widow that Paul came across and witnessed to in his travels. Lydia was one of the first to be baptized upon hearing Paul speak in Europe and is where Paul stayed before leaving for Thessaloniki.

 

Theatre of Philippi

Pauls Journey to Thessalonica

Thessalonica, now known as Thessaloniki, was located at an intersection of two major roads known as Ignatia Way (road leading from Italy eastward) and Danube (road from the Aegean). Its location made it a prominent city and in 168 BC it became the capital of the second district of Macedonia and later became the capital and major port of the entire Roman province of Macedonia in 146 BC. Today, Thessaloniki sits atop Thessalonica and is the second most important city of Greece being home to a million people.

When Paul traveled to Thessalonica he was aware that there was a Jewish synagogue and so set foot in pursuit of the city. The city itself was unlike Philippi, but the encounters with the people were somewhat familiar. Paul and Silas preached the good news and many gentiles and Jews believed and were saved. It’s not known how many were the first Christians, but a church was soon established in Thessalonica upon its liberation. Paul’s message spread and those who were not favorable of his preaching provoked riots and problems began to ensue. Late in the evening, Paul and Silas left the city in a hurry from a small opening out of a high spot in the walls; most likely a small door. This is where Vlatades monastery was later established and it is east of this location where a spring used to be that Paul is known to have stopped for a drink. Roughly around the time the church was built in Paul’s honor, this spring became well known as ‘Apostle Paul’s Holy Water’.

 

Ruins of ancient Thessalonica marketplace

Pauls Journey to Veria

Veria was a bustling city with a large population and a flourishing synagogue. Upon arrival, Paul and his companions visited the synagogue. Known as a city of friendly people, Veria openly received Paul’s words and listened with great intent. Among some of these people were those of upper class, Hebrews, converts and a great number of women. The spot where Paul is known to have stood and preached is called ‘Apostle Paul’s Podium” which is now a monument. Word eventually spread back to Thessalonica and enemies of Veria were sent to provoke turmoil in its city. It was at this time that Paul left Veria while his companions Silas and Timothy remained. As a gift, the city of Veria gave Paul a new companion by the name of Sopatros, son of Pyrrhus, who accompanied him for a long while after Pauls return to Asia.

Pauls Journey to Athens

Paul is believed to have traveled to Athens by boat from the city of Berea and docking at the large port of Piraeus. At the time, this was where the main port of Athens was located; between Kifissos river bed and the small church of Agios Georgios. It was originally built in the 5th century BC and continues to thrive today. In ancient times, Piraeus was connected to Athens by the Long Walls which were six miles long and 600 feet apart.

From here, Paul took foot and traveled the road to Athens. Far from the typical, appealing luster of previous cities, Athens stood in contrast as it was frequently pillaged during this time. The Romans deserted the city and the descent of idols was becoming obvious to passerbys. While waiting for his companions Silas and Timothy, Paul walked through the city discussing with locals in the synagogue and marketplace. Here he spread the world of God and was called to the High Court on Areopagus, a hill west of the Athenian Acropolis known as Mars Hill, where he formally preached in greater detail. While some epicurean and stoic philosophers thought of him as a ‘newsmonger’, Paul was never chased like that in Vilas and Thessalonica. In 1887, Apostle Paul’s church was established in close proximity to the heart of Athens. Two years later, Queen Olga issued for foundations to be set for a new and larger church.

 

Church of Agios Georgios

Pauls Journey to Corinth

Corinth was known as the cosmopolitan city of its time. It is here that you will find many popular attractions of Corinth such as the ruins of the Temple of Apollo. Greek writers in the 4th and 5th centuries characterized this city as one of commercialized love and a ‘Corinthian girl’, which meant prostitute. The church of Corinth during Paul’s day struggled with worldliness and sexual sin which were both typical of this cosmopolitan city.

How Paul actually traveled to Corinth is unknown, but it was in Corinth that he developed friendships with Aquila and Priscilla while traveling through Agora. It was with them that Paul worked alongside, preaching to both Jews and Greeks. Most of the Jews did not accept that Jesus was the Messiah, but Paul continued to share the good news and many were saved. At one point, Paul stayed with Titus Justus who lived close to the synagogue. Among some of the believers there, was Crispus, the chief priest of the synagogue who was baptized along with his family.

During Paul’s stay in Corinth, the Corinthian Jews in Bema united against him, dragging him to court and accusing him of illegally trying to convert people to follow his preaching. A few weeks later, the proconsul dismissed the charges against him as a dispute of Jewish law and it was around this time that Paul decided to leave to Ephesus. After saying his goodbyes, Paul left and was accompanied by Silas, Timothy, Aquilas and Priscilla.

Following the Journey of Paul in Greece offers rich history and insight to some of the great stories of biblical times. Walking where Paul and his companions were known to set foot is an experience of a lifetime that will leave any traveler greatly fulfilled.