Vatopaidi through the eyes of an ordinary pilgrim. (photos: Nikos Loupakis)

The entrance of the Holy Monastery of Vatopaidi.

The Clock-Tower of the Monastery.

Talking with Fathers in the courtyard in front of the katholiko (main church) of the monastery.

The monastery refectory.

The refectory door.

Detail from the refectory door.

Preparation of the refectory.

Refectory time for the lovely four-footed companions of the monks.

It is the bearing of the monks which marks the sanctity of the place.

Logs- the traditional heating fuel of the Monastery.

Darkness gives another dimension to the interior of the Monastery

The bell-tower of the Monastery, built by the Suzerain of Thessaloniki, Andronikos Palaiologos, dates back to 1427. It is the only Byzantine structure of its type which still exists on the Mountain today.

A few words before a good night’s rest.

Just before the gates close.

The moon seems to have caught fire above Vatopaidi.

With the komboskini.

A typical example of the restoration work and refurbishment of the monastery buildings.

The Chapel of the Holy Girdle.

With a smile on their faces, at the monastery landing-stage.

Time to leave. The speed-boat approaching the jetty.