We began with a beautiful outdoor mass at Alexandria Tros, the landing place for St Paul as he headed to the old Macedonia. We were escorted there by a security guard on motor bike as we wove through tiny Turkish streets avoiding the goats and cows who were so carefully looked after by their shepherds. St Paul walked from this ancient port to the city of Assos where the temple if Athena stood at its highest point. Of course, we took over an hour to drive there but St Paul used many, many footsteps and sheer determination instead. As we made our way to the top we walked through a quaint village (up hill) and admired the handy works of many little Turkish women who were keen to sell their wares. The view from the top was stunning! We took the pilgrim route to the bottom which was quite cross country but well worth the effort.
At the bottom we feasted on Gozleme before heading to Troy. Sadly Brad Pitt was not there today but the legendary replica of the wooden horse and more impressive ruins awaited us.
We are all now sitting in the foyer of our hotel awaiting for the departure of our bus for Gallipoli. A 10:45pm departure and a seat waiting for us as special guests. Definitely a once in a lifetime experience. Will be bitterly cold but extremely proud. Lest we forget.
Watched the ceremony on the ABC wishing I was there with you all. Looked very cold but very special. What sacred ground.
ReplyDeleteLest we Forget