The upper floor of the mansion features a wooden roofed loggia, which serves as a semi-enclosed transition space. The rooms of the ones can be accessed through the hayiati, while the more secluded areas were transformed into sitting rooms known as sofas. The loggia provides a comfortable and functional space for residents to relax and connect with the surrounding environment. The use of wood in the roofing and the semi-enclosed design create a warm and inviting atmosphere that contributes to the overall comfort and livability of the mansion.
Who knows, maybe Revoula Venizelos lived here.
Saint Philothei, also known as Revoula Venizelos, was a remarkable figure in her time. Her actions and impact captured the attention of not only her fellow Athenians but also Venice, the Patriarchy, and Sultan Murad III himself. She was one of eight women canonised during the Ottoman occupation and among 167 new martyrs.
Born into one of the oldest noble families of Athens, Philothei inherited extensive property and devoted herself to monasticism after becoming a widow at a young age. She founded the Convent of St. Andrew, which was likely established in 1571 and is now the location of the Archdiocese of Athens. She also installed dependencies in Patesia, Kalogreza, and Kea, as well as hostels and hospitals. Her monastery, with 100 to 150 nuns, provided shelter, food, and care to the poor and weak and offered refuge to enslaved people and unfortunate Muslim women who often converted to Christianity. The response from the Ottoman authorities to this activity resulted in her violent death.
St. Philothei was highly regarded by her fellow Christians, including metropolitan, priests, and noblemen, who supported her when she asked for economic assistance for her monastery from the Doge of Venice in 1583 and also intervened on her behalf to the Patriarchy from 1598 to 1601 to recognise her as a saint. Due to her extensive social, charitable, and spiritual work, she remains an important figure in the history of Athens and the Greek Orthodox Church.
A walking trip through the streets of Athens can be a fantastic way to dive into the rich history of this ancient city. Here is a trial that explores some of the most exciting sites in Athens:
Start at Athina Avenue and head towards Monastiraki Street. This lively street is lined with shops and street vendors selling various goods, including souvenirs, clothing, and jewellery.
Take a stroll down the lane and enjoy the sights and sounds of the bustling marketplace. From Monastiraki Street, continue to the Plaka neighbourhood, one of the oldest and most charming neighbourhoods in Athens. The Plaka is known for its narrow, winding streets, picturesque houses, and traditional Greek tavernas. Visit the old house of the Venizelos family, a historic building once the home of the famous Greek politician Eleftherios Venizelos.
From the Plaka, head up to the Anafiotika district, a charming neighbourhood built on the slopes of the Acropolis. Here you can visit some of the most delicious restaurants in Athens, offering traditional Greek cuisine and breathtaking views of the city.
After exploring the Anafiotika district, make your way to the southern slope of the Acropolis, where you can see the ruins of the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Theatre of Dionysus.
End your walking trip by visiting the Areopagus and Pnyx Hills, two historic sites located just outside the city centre. The Areopagus Hill was once a seat of the judicial court in ancient Athens and is also associated with the spread of Christianity into Greece. Pnyx Hill was the location of the assembly of the people, where citizens gathered to discuss and vote on important political matters. From these two hills, you will see breathtaking views of the city in the sunset and gain a deeper understanding of its rich history and cultural heritage.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
