In the Mediterranean sun, an encounter with Parikia

In the Mediterranean sun, an encounter with Parikia As the plane gently landed in Greece, my heart was already soaring towards Parikia, Paros. As soon as I disembarked, the salty sea breeze embraced me warmly, and a wonderful stroll began. Stepping into Parikia felt like entering a white dream forgotten by time. The stone paths under my feet meandered, leading me through the scattered white houses. The sun shone generously, gilding every house, and the walls reflected dappled light and shadow, like poems written by time. Not far away, the Church of Ekatontapyliani appeared before my eyes. This ancient Byzantine building has stood quietly for thousands of years, solemn and mysterious. Stepping into the church, the air was filled with a faint scent of incense. Although the colors of the frescoes on the walls had faded, they were still vivid, as if telling distant stories. I couldn't help but be awed by the weight of history. Leaving the church and continuing my walk, small shops lined the streets, like small boxes hiding countless treasures. I entered a characteristic handicraft shop, and the dazzling array of goods instantly attracted me. Hand-woven carpets, brightly colored ceramics, each piece imbued with local customs. I couldn't resist picking a few as souvenirs. Tired from walking, I found a small cafe on the street to sit down. I ordered a local specialty drink and watched the people passing by: children laughing and playing, couples strolling hand in hand, and elderly people basking in the sun. Here, time seemed to slow down, and life returned to its most authentic form. As the sun set, the sky was dyed a brilliant orange-red. With joy and nostalgia, I ended my stroll in Parikia. The beauty of this small town has been deeply etched in my memory, becoming an unforgettable beautiful time in my life.