Panagia Tourliani Monastery, Ano Mera, Mykonos
Ano Mera is 7km (4 miles) is a village near the center of Mykonos island, a quick bus ride from the north station in Mykonos Town. The trip is especially recommended to travelers interested in churches and monasteries.
Ano Mera also has the most traditional atmosphere on the island, with a fresh-produce market on the main square selling excellent local cheeses, and it's the island's place of choice for Sunday brunch.
The Monastery of Panagia Tourliani, southeast of town, dates from the 18th century and has a marble bell tower with intricate folk carvings. Originally founded in 1580, the monastery is dedicated to the protectress of Mykonos.
Its massive baroque iconostasis (altar screen), made in 1775 by Florentine artists, has small icons carefully placed amid the wooden structure's painted green, red, and gold-leaf flowers. At the top are carved figures of the apostles and large icons depicting New Testament scenes.
The hanging incense holders with silver molded dragons holding red eggs in their mouths show an Eastern influence. In the hall of the monastery, an interesting museum displays embroideries, liturgical vestments, and wood carvings.
A good taverna is across the street. The monastery is open by appointment only; call in advance (0289/71249). One kilometer (1/2 mile) southeast is the 12th-century Monastery of Paleokastro, in one of the greenest spots on the island.
Source: Frommer's Greece, 4th ed.
