The Sacred Monastery of Koudoumas, a beacon of faith, culture, and spirituality in Asterousia, Crete, is proud to present “Behold the Land of Asterousia,” a photographic exhibition celebrating the unique dimensions of the region’s natural landscape and Orthodox tradition. This summer 2024, the monastery’s grounds will transform into a captivating gallery, showcasing the works of internationally acclaimed photographers who have captured the essence of Asterousia’s heritage.

A Journey Through Time and Spirit

The exhibition invites visitors to embark on a visual journey through the rugged beauty of Asterousia’s mountains, the tranquility of its monasteries, and the vibrant tapestry of its Orthodox traditions. Through the lenses of talented photographers like Georgios Stamatakis, Christos Papanastasiou Kontos, Manolis Ntretakis, Ioanna Sakellarakis, Maya Vidler, Konstantinos Boudaskas, and Father Ilarion Stamatakis, the exhibition reveals the hidden treasures of this ancient land.

More Than Just an Exhibition

“Behold the Land of Asterousia” is more than just a static display of photographs. It’s a dynamic and evolving experience that will be enriched by the contributions of visitors, researchers, and organizations. The monastery welcomes submissions of photographs, artwork, research papers, documents, or any other materials that relate to the exhibition’s theme.

In addition to the stunning visuals, the exhibition will offer guided tours, photography workshops, and discussions with the featured photographers and experts in Orthodox art, Christian culture, and tradition. These interactive elements will provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the region’s rich heritage and the spiritual significance of its landscapes.

Official Opening and Beyond

The official opening of the exhibition will take place in the last ten days of August, coinciding with research workshops on environmental awareness and Orthodox spirituality. These workshops will bring together professors and students from Greece and abroad, fostering a dialogue between faith, ecology, and environmental protection.

While the exhibition is still being set up, it is already open to the public, offering a sneak peek to those who won’t be able to attend after its completion. The official inauguration is scheduled for Friday, August 23rd.

Join Us in Celebrating Asterousia

“Behold the Land of Asterousia” is a testament to the enduring power of photography to capture the essence of a place and its people. It’s an invitation to explore, to learn, and to connect with the natural and spiritual wonders of this unique corner of Crete. We invite you to join us in celebrating the land of Asterousia and its rich cultural heritage.