St. Anthonys Greek Monastery
01/20/2012
01/20/2012
St. Anthonys Greek Monastery - Florence Arizona 01/20/2012
In less than 20 years the monks have built this incredible monastery in the desert. To say they have a green thumb is an understatement.
Some chapels are built to resemble those found in Greece, Romania, Russia or other countries in Europe. The icons and interiors are quite amzing. You forget you are actually in Arizona and not Europe.
Also, the monks love to bake, and you are offered cookies and treats when you come in. So even if you are not moved by the architecture, come for the goodies
Knowing we had to cover our heads we brought bandanas
The main gate into the monastery
There we are, all decked out in our long skirts and head covers. Why pants are not enough
The first church you see is that of St. Anthony and Nectarios
Inside St. Anthony Church. Quite elaborate
The chandelier was amazing
The wood carvings on this are so intricate
Just a shot of some of the gardens
Yes, I'm making fun of my skirt
St. George Chapel - very much like those George remembered in Romania
Love those tiles and terrets
Back in Europe again
Interesting mix of stones and bricks in this chapel
The interior of St. George Chapel. Amazing wood works
A very large Patriarchal Cross
Church of St. Nicholas
Love those tile roofs
Just a bit smaller than St. Anthony but no less dramatic inside
Babushka Babes resting by one of the many fountains
Now for the Russian theme - St. Panteleimon Church
I am thinking Csars and Cossacks
Inside St. Panteleimon
You see St. Elijah Chapel on the hill as you drive to the monastery parking lot
Yup, thinking Greek Islands