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Discovering Harmony & Zen At Kaisanji: Greece's First Zen Monastery
An Ideal Location for Spiritual Reflection
Kaisanji finds its home on the picturesque island of Serifos, near the enchanting Kalo Ambeli beach. This idyllic setting boasts unobstructed views of the sea, gentle construction, and a distinctive natural beauty that makes it the perfect location for the establishment of a Zen monastery.
Harmony with Nature: Architectural Design
At Kaisanji, every aspect of the architectural design is a reflection of the monastery's core principles—calmness, simplicity, and equilibrium with nature. Influenced by Japanese culture and the island's unique architecture, Kaisanji's design seamlessly integrates with its surroundings. Local natural materials like stone, reed, and wood intertwine with traditional Japanese elements, creating a harmonious blend of two architectural traditions.
Embracing Natural Elements
Water, a symbol of purity and tranquility, plays a central role in Kaisanji's design. From the Hato lake to the flowing stream that winds its way through the monastery, water elements enhance the sense of calmness and lead visitors on a journey of introspection. The Zen garden, with its circular pattern of rocks and pebbles, further enhances the meditative atmosphere, inviting guests to connect with nature and themselves.
Balancing Tradition and Modernity
Kaisanji's architecture reflects a delicate balance between tradition and modernity. While paying homage to Japanese Zen meditation spaces, the interior design incorporates modern elements to enhance the overall experience. Perforated partition panels filter natural light, creating a play of light and shadow that adds to the meditative ambiance. The Zendo, Kaisanji's meditation hall, serves as a focal point for spiritual reflection, with its simple yet practical design aligning with the essence and philosophy of Zen.
Embark on Your Zen Journey
Experience the serenity of Serifos Island, where nature's beauty and Zen teachings harmonize to create an oasis of calmness and reflection. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to the path, Kaisanji welcomes all who seek solace, connection, and inner peace.
Online Platform For Postal Voting Registration Launched
Unraveling Ancient Greek Wisdom: Classic Proverbs & Their Significance
Meaning: "Know thyself."
Origin: Inscribed in the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, this famous aphorism has been attributed to various ancient Greek sages, including the philosopher Thales of Miletus and the oracle of Delphi. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, introspection, and understanding one's own strengths, weaknesses, and limitations in the pursuit of wisdom and self-improvement.
Meaning: "Do not call anyone happy before the end."
Origin: According to Herodotus, Kroisos, the king of Lydia, impressed by his own wealth and achievements, asked Solon who the happiest man in the world was. Solon, instead of praising Kroisos, famously responded with the proverb "μηδένα πρὸ τοῦ τέλους μακαρίζε" (mēdena pro tou telous makarize), advising Kroisos not to consider anyone truly happy until their life had ended. This encounter served as a cautionary tale about the uncertainty of fortune and the fleeting nature of happiness, despite Kroisos' immense wealth and power.
Ancient Frieze From Zeus Temple Found Near Shore
Originally published in Greek, on: enikos.gr
FokiaNou Art Space Presents: Erosion & Renewal
Sleepover At The Industrial Gas Museum
Note: Phone reservations are mandatory for securing participation in this event.
4 Lesser-Known Greek Winter Escapes

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Greek Winter Staple Dishes You Will Definitely Love
Let the gastronomic journey through some must-try Greek winter dishes begin!
1. Trahanas Soup

Trahanas, a traditional Greek pasta made from wheat or semolina flour mixed with sour milk or yogurt, is the star of this comforting soup. Simmered with vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and sometimes meat, Trahanas Soup offers a hearty and nourishing meal perfect for cold winter evenings.
2. Revithada

Revithada is a rustic Greek dish consisting of slow-cooked chickpeas, simmered with onions, garlic, olive oil, and a blend of aromatic herbs. Traditionally baked in a clay pot in a wood-fired oven, this hearty stew develops rich flavors and creamy textures that make it a true winter comfort food.

Lahanodolmades are cabbage rolls stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and herbs, simmered in a tomato-based sauce. This humble yet flavorful dish showcases the ingenuity of Greek home cooks, who transform simple ingredients into a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for warming up during the winter months.

Psarosoupa, or Greek fish soup, is a soul-warming dish made with a variety of fish, vegetables, and fragrant herbs. Simmered to perfection, this hearty soup is both nutritious and comforting, offering a taste of the Mediterranean even on the chilliest of days.

Melitzanes Papoutsakia, which translates to "eggplant little shoes," is a lesser-known Greek dish that's as fun to say as it is to eat. Halved eggplants are filled with a flavorful mixture of minced meat, tomatoes, onions, and spices, then topped with a generous layer of creamy béchamel sauce and baked until golden and bubbly.

Kolokythokeftedes are Greek zucchini fritters, made by grating zucchini and combining it with herbs, cheese, and flour, then frying until crispy and golden brown. Served hot with a dollop of tzatziki sauce, these fritters are a delicious and satisfying winter snack or appetizer.
Timeless Greek Philosophy: 5 Must-Read Works For Enduring Wisdom
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"The Symposium" by Plato
- Genre: Philosophy, Dialogue
- In this philosophical dialogue, Plato explores the nature of love and desire through a series of speeches delivered at a banquet. "The Symposium" provides profound insights into the different aspects of love, with themes that continue to resonate in discussions on relationships, beauty, and the pursuit of the ideal.
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"Nicomachean Ethics" by Aristotle
- Genre: Philosophy
- Aristotle's "Nicomachean Ethics" remains a cornerstone of ethical philosophy. Delving into the nature of virtue, happiness, and the moral character of individuals, this work serves as a timeless guide for contemplating the principles of a well-lived life.
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"The Meditations" by Marcus Aurelius
- Genre: Philosophy, Stoicism
- Penned by the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, "The Meditations" offers a series of personal reflections on Stoic philosophy. Through these introspective writings, Aurelius explores the importance of reason, virtue, and the acceptance of life's inevitable challenges.
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"The Bacchae" by Euripides
- Genre: Tragedy, Drama
- Euripides' tragedy "The Bacchae" delves into the conflict between rationality and primal instincts, embodied by the god Dionysus. Exploring themes of ecstasy, liberation, and the consequences of denying fundamental aspects of human nature, this play invites profound philosophical reflection.
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"The Consolation of Philosophy" by Boethius
- Genre: Philosophy, Consolation Literature
- Composed while imprisoned, Boethius' work engages with philosophical questions on fate, free will, and the nature of happiness. "The Consolation of Philosophy" takes the form of a dialogue between Boethius and Lady Philosophy, offering solace and wisdom in the face of adversity.
Kremmydia: The Only Greek Village In The Guinness World Records
Originally published in Greek on: mixanitouxronou.gr
Translated by: Codico Lab