Byzantine aqueduct structure in Kavala is based on an original Roman one and links with the fortress. A cross high above the town is illuminated at night.
The motorway follows the VE but secondary roads, now largely fee of heavy traffic, trace the gentle lower contours of the mountains inland. These mountains become the Rodope range which stretch into Bulgaria. Wild bear and wolves live in the remotest parts of this heavily wooded mountain range.
Dotted along are sites of Byzantine castles, monasteries and bridges. Too distant or difficult to access safely by bike. I tried but gave up but now wish I had continued as in Komotini images show the superb Byzantine bridge I failed to reach. Snakes are common.
Moving easterly an increasing numbers of mosques, as well as carefully maintained churches, are noticeable.
The small towns and service stations en route provide for the traveller. A reminder of how this journey will have been made by so many since ancient times, all needing to sustain themselves for the journey ahead.
Komotini is the capital of the Rodope region and has a Turkish speaking muslim community. A ruined Byzantine castle is in the center and there are many university students at night chilling out drinking 'frapper' (iced frothy coffee) although it is actually really chilly at night at this time of year!
The motorway follows the VE but secondary roads, now largely fee of heavy traffic, trace the gentle lower contours of the mountains inland. These mountains become the Rodope range which stretch into Bulgaria. Wild bear and wolves live in the remotest parts of this heavily wooded mountain range.
Dotted along are sites of Byzantine castles, monasteries and bridges. Too distant or difficult to access safely by bike. I tried but gave up but now wish I had continued as in Komotini images show the superb Byzantine bridge I failed to reach. Snakes are common.
Moving easterly an increasing numbers of mosques, as well as carefully maintained churches, are noticeable.
The small towns and service stations en route provide for the traveller. A reminder of how this journey will have been made by so many since ancient times, all needing to sustain themselves for the journey ahead.
Komotini is the capital of the Rodope region and has a Turkish speaking muslim community. A ruined Byzantine castle is in the center and there are many university students at night chilling out drinking 'frapper' (iced frothy coffee) although it is actually really chilly at night at this time of year!
Fantastic scenery here
ReplyDeleteQuite a mixture actually, most days
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