Introduction: An Ancient Kingdom of Greece
The 'Caryatis' project in Macedonia Greece, is a deeply personal photographic journey that blends the timeless beauty of black and white photography with the rich cultural heritage of northern Greece. This project was inspired by the ancient Caryatids, the sculpted female figures serving as architectural supports in ancient Greek temples, symbolizing grace, strength, and timeless elegance. My travels through Macedonia for this project connected me with the region's pagan customs of Northern Greece, vibrant traditions, and captivating landscapes, all beautifully captured in monochrome. I have travelled across the country from Athens to Macedonia on many occasions throughout my photography adventures.
*The name Macedonia (Μακεδονία) comes from ancient Greece and the tribe “Makedni” as described by Herodotus. It originates from the Doric Greek adjective “Makednos”, a word mentioned by Homer to describe a very tall poplar. The same adjective is described by the lexicographer Hesychius of Alexandria as a Doric word meaning “great” or “heavenly”.
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Video from the trip to Florina and Prespes, in Macedonia, Greece.
Below, find a video I put together during one of many trips to the regions of Florina and Prespes' Lakes in Macedonia, northern Greece.
Volax, Drama, Eastern Macedonia
My adventure in Volax, Drama, began on a snowy day that nearly thwarted my plans. The initial plan was to photograph the local traditional pagan customs. The journey was challenging, with heavy snowfall threatening to block the roads. I arrived just in time, only to find the village transformed into a winter wonderland, blanketed in thick snow. The picturesque scenery was both a blessing and a curse; while it provided stunning photographic opportunities, it also trapped me in the village. The village sits in the north of mainland Greece, close to the borders with Bulgaria, to the North of the city of Kavala.
Equipped with my camera and snow boots, I ventured out to capture the essence of Volax. The local women, adorned in their traditional dresses, stood out beautifully against the snowy backdrop. Their attire's vibrant patterns and textures created a striking contrast with the serene whiteness of the landscape. Each photograph told a story of resilience and tradition, as these women carried on with their daily lives despite the harsh weather. After one day, my car was buried under snow, and I had to dig it out with shovels, a small price to pay for the incredible images I captured.
Pontic Costume at Lake Kerkini, Central Macedonia
Lake Kerkini, situated in Central-North Macedonia, near the Greek-Bulgarian border, is a haven for wildlife and a paradise for photographers. My visit there required navigating icy conditions, but the effort was well worth it. The lake, partially frozen, presented a unique challenge as I glided carefully on the ice by car to find the perfect spot.
The stillness of the lake, the snow, and the occasional movements of birds created a surreal atmosphere. I focused on capturing the beautiful Pontic costume, against the serene beauty of the landscape. Ourania had brought her costume with her. She was a woman who lived nearby and is a collector of authentic folklore dresses. Each photograph from Lake Kerkini is a testament to the peaceful coexistence of nature and tradition in this part of Greece.
Prespes Lakes, Florina
My travels took me to the Prespes Lakes in Florina, a region known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. I visited this area twice, each trip offering new experiences and photographic opportunities. The locals welcomed me warmly, sharing stories and traditions that added depth to my work.
The Prespes Lakes are surrounded by mountains, creating a dramatic backdrop for my photographs. I focused on the traditional costumes of the region, capturing the intricate details and vibrant colors in monochrome. I have photographed the local folklore dresses in several locations. These included local churches, barns and houses. We have also ventured to the surreal islet of Saint Achilles, a small island located inside the small Prespa lake. There, I have taken some photographs with the locals amongst the ruins of the Saint Achilles Cathedral.
