Loutraki, Greece, September 16, 2019
rua.gr
At least two Greek monasteries had to be evacuated so far, amidst raging wildfires in Corinth.
The famous Monastery of St. Patapios and the Monastery of St. Elias had to be evacuated as a precaution, although they are thankfully currently unharmed. This came as some of the smoke was reportedly reaching the town of Loutraki, and the fire was seen in the mountains, not far from the monasteries.
More than 170 firefighters, 24 vehicles, 4 aircraft, and 6 helicopters are engaged in battling the blaze, together with the Hellenic Army and volunteers.
Thank God, as of today, Monday September 16, 2019, the Loutraki fire which began yesterday, Sunday morning, is reportedly showing signs of weakening, though Greek news also reports of another dangerous fire in Zakynthos.
The Monastery of St. Patapios is located in the small sea-side town of Loutraki, located 55 miles from Athens, just on the outskirts of Corinth, where it dominates a mountaintop overlooking the ancient city. Just above that monastery, is located another, the Monastery of the Prophet Elias, also offering an impressive view of the Gulf of Corinth.
Fires are also reportedly raging in nearby Megara, just across the Gulf of Corinth, as well as Pyrgos on the island of Santorini, and Pylos in Messinia.
OrthoChristian previously reported on the evacuation of the Monastery of the Annunciation in Nea Makri of east Attica, as well as the Monastery of Panagia Makrymallis on the island of Evia.
Matfey Shaheen
