Saturday, December 9, 2023

Does the Cave Church have any secrets?

 Yes, the cave church of Panagia Kakaviotissa on Lemnos Island, North Aegean, Greece, is said to hold a few secrets.

  • Its origins and purpose: The exact origins of the church are shrouded in mystery, and there are a few different stories about how it came to be. Some believe it was built by monks who sought refuge from the Ottoman invasions, while others say it was a pagan temple that was converted to a Christian church. The purpose of the church is also unclear, but it is thought to have been a place of worship and pilgrimage for both monks and ordinary people.
  • The lack of a roof: The most striking feature of the church is its lack of a roof. This makes it unique in the Orthodox world, and it has led to many legends and myths about the church. Some people believe that the roof was never built, while others say that it was destroyed by an earthquake or by the Ottomans. Whatever the reason, the lack of a roof makes the church feel very open and exposed, and it is said to allow the holy spirit to enter directly into the building.
  • The hidden cave: Behind the main chapel of the church, there is a small cave that is said to be home to a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary. This icon is only visible to those who are pure of heart, and it is said to have the power to heal the sick and grant wishes.
  • The secret passage: There is also a secret passage that leads from the church to the top of the mountain. This passage is said to have been used by monks to escape from the Ottomans, and it is now a popular spot for hikers and adventurers.

These are just a few of the many secrets that are said to be associated with the cave church of Panagia Kakaviotissa. Whether these secrets are true or not, the church is a fascinating and mysterious place that has attracted pilgrims and visitors for centuries.

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