By Nikolaos Michailidis
"Even though we were a bit tired,
We gained beauty and flowers in our hearts,
And you, who were relaxing at home,
What was your profit, you poor?"
(A popular song sang by the pilgrims who were returning from the Monastery addressing those who failed to attend.)
My research thus far enabled me to identify some key views and attitudes towards the monastery, the main one being nostalgia for its past glory and the expressed willingness to reestablish its spiritual fame and role in the broader county of Serres. Many contemporary inhabitants of the broader area continue to view the monastery as a holy community whose presence in their region not only provides them with spiritual support, but also with pride for their homeland, as well as with opportunities to expand the county’s fame around the country and attract Greek and foreign visitors. In my forthcoming presence at the Monastery I will continue building my network of informants with various individuals such as pilgrims, janitors, and archeologists and continue my interviewing and collection of narratives and other related information.