Embark on a soul-enriching journey with our exclusive Christian shore excursion to Corinth, Saint Patapios Monastery, and Vouliagmeni Lake. Immerse yourself in the profound connection between religion and history as you trace the footsteps of Saint Paul and discover his enduring legacy to future generations.
Highlights Of the 9-h Corinth, Greatness Saint Patapios Monastery Shore Excursion
- The famous Corinth Canal
- The ancient agora in Corinth
- The house of Aquila and Priscilla
- The St. Patapios monastery
- The Vouliagmeni lake at Heraion
- Pick up and drop off at your cruise ship pier
You’ll Visit: Corinth canal – Ancient Corinth – the ancient Corinth agora – the temple of Apollo – Saint Patapios monastery – Mycenaean – Vouliagmeni lake (Heraion)
Description of the Christian Tour To Corinth
Begin your private shore excursion bright and early in the morning. Our team will be waiting at the cruise ship pier to escort you on a scenic drive along the stunning Saronic gulf coastline. Along the way, we’ll make a brief stop at the iconic Corinth canal for some photo opportunities. Afterward, buckle up and enjoy the rest of the drive as we make our way to the ancient city of Corinth.
Ancient Corinth and Apostle Paul;
Oh Protector and chosen messenger of the nations and beloved founder of the Corinthian Church! Who else could have embodied the role of the Apostle to both the nations and Corinth? In honor of this incredible figure, we present to you the stirring ode from the First Letter to the Corinthians, a truly magnificent expression of the Apostle Paul’s unwavering love.
“Love is enduring and holds great value. It is not envious or boastful, and it remains humble. It does not cause harm or seek its own gain, and it does not lash out or harbor ill thoughts towards others. Instead, it finds joy in justice and celebrates truth. It has the strength to withstand all things, believes in all things, hopes for all things, and endures all things. Love never falters.”
Paul
The ancient city of Corinth was abuzz with the fervent teachings of the revered apostle Paul, who fearlessly spread the message of Jesus. Even today, his impactful words continue to inspire and move us. As per our church’s tradition, Paul addressed the Corinthian people from the Corinthian Ancient Ages Step, a spot where officials would stand to address and captivate the citizens. It was around 51-52 AD when Paul himself founded the Church of Corinth, and his esteemed colleagues including Peter, Andrew, and other associates also graced the city with their presence.
Apostle Paul penned the First and Second Epistles to the Corinthians, with Chapter 13 containing the renowned Hymn of Love. While stationed in Corinth, he also composed a letter in Greek to the Romans. This bustling city proved to be a significant location for the Apostle, as he spent a remarkable year and six months teaching there, with the exception of his time in Roman imprisonment.
Shortly thereafter we’ll reach the ancient town of Corinth, one of the most important city states in antiquity, famous for its “wicked ways”.
The timeless quality of Ancient Corinth
Nestled at the base of Acrocorinth hill, the ancient city of Corinth houses a wealth of historical treasures, including the archaic Temple of Apollo. Through extensive excavations, we have been able to uncover the Roman Agora, temples, fountains, galleries, and even elaborate bathing facilities, showcasing the grandeur of this ancient civilization. Additionally, various other monuments have been unearthed, providing further insight into the rich cultural heritage of this site.
The excavations spanned across various areas, from the Acrocorinth fortress in the south to prehistoric settlements in the Corinthian plain in the north, including notable sites like the hill of Korakos, Saint Gerasimos, Gonia, and Gouriza. On the southern side, we find the remains of the Theater, the Roman Conservatory, and the sanctuary of Asclepius and Health (Asclepius), as well as cemeteries, ceramics laboratories (Kerameikos), walls, and a range of other structures such as the Frankish Quarter, the District, and Ottoman monuments.… More
The Holy Monastery of Saint Patapios…
… Nestled in the picturesque Gerania Mountains, at a mere distance of 14 km from Loutraki, stands the magnificent Holy Monastery of Saint Patapios. Built upon a 650-meter-high slope, this monastery holds within itself a powerful history. Originally a humble hermitage, it was transformed into a grand wagon with the dedicated efforts of both clergy and laypeople.
The small cave, which served as its foundation, holds the honorable relic of Hosios Patapios, gloriously intact and untouched. Born to devout Christian parents in Egypt, Saint Patapios (380-450 AD) led a remarkable life, as documented by Symeon the Translator and the renowned hymnologist Saint Andreas of Crete.
After completing his well-rounded education, he joined the ranks of other hermits in the wilderness. There, he immersed himself in the practices of purity, obedience, and indulgence, earning a reputation as a wise elder. His wisdom and spiritual guidance drew in groups of monks, all seeking his insight. However, as he sought to maintain his ascetic lifestyle, he was compelled to leave for Constantinople and establish himself in Vlachernes, located in the Gulf of Kerat.
His virtuous presence attracted a group of devoted followers, who eventually formed the renowned Egyptian Monastery, known for the miraculous deeds of Hosios Patapios. As the years passed, the humble sanctuary remained untouched by time and may have eventually relocated to Constantinople. Evidence of Hosios Patapios’ identity was confirmed through a leather scroll bearing his name..
===========================The monastery
After the Conquest of Constantinople, pious monks carried the sacred relic and placed it in the Geranien arena and established the arena where they were hiding from the fear of the Turks. In August 1952 the first nun was established and the monastery began to function informally. Since then, the monastery has functioned as a cathedral monastery and spreads around the cave-temple where the holy relic is kept.
The many and verified wonders of Hosios Patapios, as well as its unique location, make it possible for many pilgrims to seek refuge in the Holy Monastery of Hosios Patapios in order to worship his honorable relic and experience, at least for a while, the fruit of their spiritual fellowship nuns.
The lake of Vouliagmeni or Heraion, a few kilometers after Loutraki of Corinth, is an ideal choice for a day trip.
Heraion combines antiquities and unparalleled Mediterranean nature. The lake (which is not exactly a lake because it joins the sea through a small canal) is less than an hour from Corinth, passing from the thermal baths of Loutraki.
Surrounded by natural pine forests and considered one of the most beautiful in Greece, an unexpected paradise landscape with a serene atmosphere and natural beauty. To distinguish it from the corresponding lake of Vouliagmeni of the capital (Athens), it is supplemented by the designation Loutraki-Perachora.
Along the coastal road of the lake, there are several cafes and taverns where you can enjoy a refreshment or lunch (optional).
After late lunch, we’ll drive you back to your cruise ship pier ending this most interesting private Christian shore excursion following the same way.
