A Big Fat Greek Christening

Greek Christenings are very elaborate affairs with themed decorations.  Kostas and Kleanthi Moschio's daughter, Katerina, was christened at Panormitis monastery on Saturday evening, followed by a big party at the Opera House Hotel in Yialos.  The theme was pirates and there were bowls of live gold fish arranged on the steps going up to the church as well as for table decorations at the hotel.


The crows in the church courtyard after the service. These events are a joyful occasion for children as well as adults and it is very much a children's party atmosphere with balloons, cakes and favours to keep the children happy.  The slightly obscene balloon on the right is meant to be a sword.


Posing for the official photographs at the top of the steps with a treasure trove of trinkets for pirate treasure.  It was a blisteringly hot day and even at 7 in the evening we were all melting in the heat.  Little Katerina handled all the excitement with professional calm and was very happy with all the attention.


The ceiling of the archway over the entrance to Panormitis monastery church with its elaborate plaster mouldings and beautifully painted rondel.


Pedi bay is very full in August.  It is cooler and quieter swinging at anchor in Pedi bay rather than lying stern-to on the quay in Yialos.  At night there are so many riding lights and mast head lights, the bay looks like a small town.


The Chorio Clinic is now clearly identifiable by a large red cross on the side wall by the entrance. The lane on the right goes down to the Taxiarchis Hotel.



The view from my office window at this year is a busy one with water taxis and yachts all heading out for the day.

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About this Blog

I sailed into Panormitis Bay, Symi, by chance one windy July day in 1993 and have been here ever since. The locals tell me that this is one of the miracles of St Michael of Panormitis. A BA graduate with majors in English, Philosophy and Classical Civilisation, the idea of living in what is to all intents and purposes an archaeological site appeals to me. Not as small as Kastellorizo, not as touristy as Rhodes, Symi is just the right size. I live on a small holding which my husband and I have reclaimed from a ruin of over-grazing and neglect and turned into a small oasis over the course of the past 22 years. I also work part-time for Symi Visitor Accommodation, helping independent travellers discover and enjoy Symi's simple pleasures for themselves.

This page is kindly sponsored by Wendy Wilcox, Symi Visitor Accommodation.


Adriana Shum

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