Tinos Town ...more on Tinos Town

As you enter the main courtyard of the church, take the carpeted steps to your right up to the first floor of the church.  When you enter the main doorway, the Icon will be just in front and slightly to your left.  It is housed in an elaborate case and covered with jewels and precious stones and is always surrounded by flowers.  It is customary to make a slight donation and take a candle(s), saying a prayer for a loved one or friend who may be in need of the healing powers of the miraculous Icon of the Virgin Mary.  The church is filled with beautiful icons and paintings, and many of the votive offerings are on display hanging from above.  If you are visiting the church during high season and between the hours of 12:00 and 15:00, be prepared to suffer large crowds and long lines. 

 

Continuing your tour of the Cathedral grounds, if you return to ground level, you can visit the site where the Icon was discovered, take some holy water, and view the two main baptism chambers.  There is also a memorial to the sailors who lost their lives when the cruiser Elli was torpedoed in Tinos Harbor on 15 August 1940.  Also on the grounds are several museums of interest.  The first is to the right of the main church on the first floor and houses many beautiful religious relics and icons, silver pieces, wood carvings, some beautifully carved mother of pearl, and a collection of vestments.  Continuing along the veranda, you will find the Museum of Tinian Artists, with an interesting collection of original works, maquettes, and copies of museum pieces.  Back down in the main courtyard and closest to the front entrance is the Picture Gallery, housing many original works of important Greek artists.

 

Some other interesting sights of the town include its Archaeological Museum; the restored building that is now the new Cultural Center; and some marvelous houses in the tiny back streets, remnants of when the town was referred to as “Little Paris.” For a more detailed description of these, and more, sightseeing attractions please refer to our relevant text "Sightseeing in Tinos Town"