We continued our journey towards the South where we were to meet up with the Rotarians of Katerini. Transferring cars and drivers we met up on the roadside and were driven on towards the slopes of Mount Olympos. The Gods were hidden from our view by cloud but at the foot of Mount Olympos in the Pieria plain lies the sacred town of Ancient Macedon.
In Roman times the town numbered 15000 inhabitants but in antiquity Greeks and Romans built a network of streets with administrative buildings, houses baths, public toilets and sanctuaries. In the shade of the trees next to springs and running water we explored the Temple of Demeter which dates from the 6th century BC. We paused in the orchestra of the Hellenistic theatre and recalled the Greek theatrical tradition.
We visited the museum to view a piped musical insrument, statues and mosaics.
By mid afternoon we were ready to reach the beach of Olympus. It is too early in the season for many visitors They do not arrive here until the temperatures rise in late May. Our hosts from the RC of Katerini treated us to a magnificent meal of fresh sea foods and salads. We were presented with banners from Katerini and collections of photographs from the 1920's.
Assistant Governor George from the RC of Alexandria and his son Vasilis shared some time with us. Vasilis was great company for the team and explained many aspects of Greek life for young people. We share the same problems and uncertainties about future employment opportunities.
By late afternoon we said our goodbyes and Rtn Socrates drove us back to Thessaloniki. Our grateful thanks to the Rotarians of Katerini for a wonderful day together.
We have a date this evening with the Rotaractors in Thessaloniki, to talk about GSE.
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