I took a walk via Xeropotamu Monastery to Daphni, where the ferries with the supply for the Republic of the Monks arrive. Waiting for “Agia Anna” I recognized that since four days I did not see any single lady… So sad!
The Monks here poetically call the Athos Peninsula “The garden of the Mother of the God” But this is the garden without flowers! (Dear ladies – you are the flowers of our life, aren’t you?) The monks are very strict. They say that even female animals are not allowed in their republic…
Sun was shining when we sailed along the coast to Ouranoupolis. On the departure from the republic there is customs control! I expected it rather on arrival – to check if somebody is not smuggling into Athos female cat or chicken 🙂
Our ferry sailed at 3.45 pm. I paid for the ride aboard – 7.80 euro. Then I enjoyed again the views the huge Russian Monastery of St. Panteleimon, Xenofontos and others. At 6 pm we approached the jetty in Ouranoupolis. A group of ladies were waiting at the coast for their husbands – pilgrims coming from Athos. They were smiling and waving hands… Thanks God! I am in the normal world again!
