The fourth book of the collection “Friends of Paros and Antiparos” has just been published by Anagenisi Publications, in Paros.
This book includes drawings by Stelios Gikas and texts by Richard Valantasis, in three languages. The book will be presented and sold from 6 pm on 23 March at Fluxus and then at the Anagenisi bookstore in Parikia.
Read the Preface of the book:
This book is the fourth one published under the aegis of the Friends of Paros and Antiparos association. This series of books in three languages highlights the beauty, the culture, the past and recent history of our two islands in order to better prepare for their future.
Our association was created 23 years ago by 11 people with the objective to unite their inhabitants, whether Greek or those coming from the four corners of the world, in a common effort to pursue sustainable and united development, respectful of the Cycladic character of the two islands. This unique combination of talents, cultures and the resulting synergies are supporting us to work towards a brighter future, which should differ from the current trend towards over-tourism and over-construction.
This book concerns the Byzantine paths of Paros and its numerous monasteries*. It is the work of Richard Valantasis and Stelios Ghikas. The text is written by Richard Valantasis, an Orthodox priest who occupied the chair of theology at Harvard University, USA. His magnificent narrative is accompanied by original drawings by Stelios Ghikas, one of the most renowned artists of Paros. The first draft of this book was presented for the first time in 2002 during an exhibition organized by the Friends of Paros, held at the magnificent Lefkes Village hotel; it was only published 15 years later as a serial in the “BULLETIN” and the website of the Friends of Paros and Antiparos. The idea to publish it as a book emerged later.
The Byzantine paths of Paros have existed for centuries, used by locals and hikers alike. They still exist, despite insensitive constructions which often encroach on their route.
These paths, beyond their physical reality, are also spiritual paths which lead human beings, through the flora and landscapes of the place, towards their fellow men and finally, towards these places of meditation and prayer which are the monasteries of Paros, witnesses to the spiritual and Christian traditions of this island.
The financing of the publication of this book was partly ensured by two pre-sales, and also the sale during an exhibition of paintings by Stelios Ghikas. We thank very warmly Eleni Gatou, who kindly made available the exhibition space free of charge. We thank also the Town hall of Paros for its valuable financial help in promoting the culture and heritage of Paros.
Georges Vlandas, Tasos Zacharas, Merina Matthaiopoulou
(*) Paros has many Byzantine paths and monasteries. This book presents a selection of them for practical reasons.
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