As anticipated, another long drive this morning, but not tedious. The landscape changes regularly. After some climbing and bends, we spent about 2 hours of the drive on a super highway which makes the F3 seem like a goat-track. Speed limit 130 km/h but I think we only sat on 90-100 km/h..
First stop was Beroea (now Veria) where Paul stayed for quite a while to preach to the northern Greeks who are Macedonian – not to be confused with the nearby political entity of
Macedonia. (Don’t ask! Not sure I understand. Just check it on-line and tell me when I get home).
The Team Photo (double click on the image if you want a closer look!)
We celebrated Mass at the memorial of Paul, which is quite impressive, but the marble steps believed to be the bema (platform or dais) that Paul stood on to preach is unverified. It might not be the real thing. The Jewish area which thrived at Paul’s time in now all but obliterated, but ‘local custom’ has it that we were on the spot where Paul stood. Anyway, it was a very peaceful and prayerful occasion.
Mass at the Memorial of St Paul
The Memorial of St Paul
Back on the super highway (asphalt not digital) and heading for Thessaloniki. Broad plains again – would they be called the ‘Plains of Thessaloniki’?? Time will tell.
At
Thessaloniki we toured some more cathedrals, such as the
church of
St Dimitrios and the
church of St Sofia. Just about ‘iconned’ out! Drove past the Arch of Galerius and other ruins as well which were interesting. A big town on the water - the edge of the Aegean. About 1.5 million people. Three universities so many young people. Felt quite safe and OK to stroll through the foreshore and the 'party area' but that was about 6.00pm on a Saturday night, so could be a bit tense later. Yet another nice little taverna, but they knew how to charge for a 'Mythos'.
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