The First Journey into the Garden of the Virgin

Some paths are well hidden. To see them you have to walk them; to hear them you have to fall silent. This first journey into Mount Athos — the Garden of the Virgin — opens Vasilis Bitsis' documentary series: a record of places that refuse to rush, as few have ever seen them.

From the small port of Dafni to the first monasteries and hermitages, the camera follows the pilgrims' steps and meets the monks who have kept the Athonite tradition alive for centuries — with the sound of the place and the light of the day, and no narration in a hurry.

Directed, filmed, produced and written by Vasilis Bitsis. Narration: Apostolos Staikos. Editing: Giannis Dolas. Originally produced for euronews.