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In the heart of Ithaca’s harbor, a tiny island named Lazaretto cradles a gem – the beautiful Church of the Transfiguration. This charming chapel’s story is one of transformation, mirroring the very essence of its namesake.
Lazaretto’s past whispers of quarantine and confinement. Yet, from a place of isolation emerged a beacon of faith. A church was built, only to be tragically demolished by the 1953 earthquake. But the spirit of the island wouldn’t be daunted. By 1956, a new sanctuary rose from the ruins, its simple elegance a testament to resilience.
Constructed with a stone exterior adorned with white plaster, the church embodies serenity. Two windows bathe the nave in a soft light, perfect for quiet contemplation. But Lazaretto truly comes alive on August 6th, the feast day of the Transfiguration.
Imagine a scene straight out of a painting: Devotees arrive by boat, their presence adding to the picturesque charm. The air buzzing with spiritual fervor. Vespers and Divine Liturgy fill the day, culminating in a beautiful custom – the sharing of holy bread and blessed grape, a symbol of community and shared blessings.
But Lazaretto holds a secret beyond its religious significance. It’s become Ithaca’s most popular wedding destination. Can you imagine exchanging vows amidst the turquoise waters, with this picturesque church as your backdrop? Lazaretto offers a setting unlike any other, where love and faith set sail together.
