Mount Athos in Greece is known for being home to several age-old monasteries and religious sites. However, these century-old monasteries have been damaged in the ongoing series of earthquakes. Here’s what happened.
Monasteries In Mount Athos Develop Cracks
It was on June 7 when an earthquake of 5.3 on the Richter Scale had struck the Mount Athos peninsula. However, this was then followed by a series of both undersea and land-based tremors, which continued throughout Friday. However, as revealed in a report by Hindustan Times, the tremors led to severe cracks in the frescoes of the Monastery of Xenophon. And this monastery was built in the late 10th century.
Cracks In The Dome Of The Monastery Of Xenophon
With the cracks developing in the dome, religious frescoes were also damaged, not only at this site but several others. For those who are wondering, Mount Athos is regarded as one of the most important religious sites for Orthodox Christians. Popularly called the Holy Mount, it is a semi-autonomous monastic republic. Moreover, it is home to Orthodox monasteries. As revealed by the Culture Ministry, they are ensuring that all the damages are addressed according to scientific and ethical standards.
Restoration Work To Include Structural Reinforcement
The restoration work would not only include structural reinforcement, but also repair of the artwork, which will later be expanded and given speed. In fact, a more detailed assessment of this damage is expected to be released by next week. It is believed that the June 7 earthquake was followed by a series of aftershock sequences.
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But it does seem that earthquakes are over in this part of the area because, according to the Professor of Seismology, the scale of the fault line might not produce an earthquake of more than 6.0 magnitude in power.
More About The Monastery Of Xenophon
This is a monastery that was built on the Western Coast of the Athos in the 10th century. A monastery that is located between the monasteries of Panteleimon and Docheiariou, it was originally dedicated to St. George.
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