Μετάφραση Greek Version

Ancient Temple of Apollo

The remains of the iconic ancient temple of Apollo Egliti or Asgealta, which was connected with the cloister with the cobble-stone Iera Odos (parts of which are still preserved) have been identified at the site of the Monastery of Kato Panagia of Kalamiotissas or Zoodochos Pigi.

The walls of both the church itself and its enclosure, which are part of the present enclosure of the monastery, are preserved in quite a height. The enclosure is made of isometric blocks of enormous size and is maintained, even today, at a great height. On top of it rests both the cells and various other buildings of the monastery.

The location of the sanctuary of Apollo, just above the sea, is of special beauty, so it was chosen by the ancients who had built a large building complex that served the worship and reception of the faithful.

The statue of Apollo's Egliti is exhibited at the British Museum. Along with Apollo, other gods were worshiped, as there are altars for Artemis, Aphrodite, Asclepius and Jupiter. Ancient architectural members and building materials are scattered throughout the area, and many of them have been used to build the christian temple and the monastery's facilities.

The temple was the center of the religious life of the ancient inhabitants of the island and was connected with the cobblestone sacred road 3km with the political center, Kasteli. Each year a celebration was held in honor of the god, Yakinthia.