OVERVIEW
To the west of the city, leaning against the southern slope of
Mount Leros, stand the main temples of many of the gods.
The path of steps and marble walkways that serves to access
them is called the Sacred Way, and is the last stage of multiple
pilgrims on a long journey from Phaela. The Sacred Way
opens with the double Altars of Athreos as a doorway,
which are on either side of the set of magnificent white steps.
The altar on the right side holds a bonfire into which pilgrims
throw a sacrificial gift to honor the god of the steps before continuing
on the path. The altar on the left side has a large vessel
of ashes that pilgrims use to stain their foreheads as proof
of their pilgrimage. Four priests of Athreos, two on each side,
serve at the altars, constantly tending the flame.
Behind the Altar of Athreos, a rectangular pool with ever-clear
fountain spouts allows pilgrims to wash their feet and hands
before continuing on the path. Eight maidens of the Pantheon serve the
newcomers in their needs.
Location Description
Outside
To the west of the city, as you make your way along the southern slope of Mount Leros, the path unfolds into the Sacred Way, a revered route leading to the main temples of the gods. This marble-lined path represents the final stretch for many pilgrims journeying on the pilgrimage from Phaela.
As you embark upon the Sacred Way, the first landmark that greets you is the double Altars of Athreos, standing like solemn sentinels on either side of a magnificent set of white steps. The air is accentuated by the soft murmur of prayers and the gentle rustling of robes.
To the right, the altar's bonfire crackles with a warm, flickering light as pilgrims cast their sacrificial gifts into the flames, honoring the god of the steps. On the left, another altar holds a large vessel of ashes, where pilgrims mark their foreheads, symbolizing the completion of their spiritual journey.
Two priests of Athreos preside over each alter, tending the flames on the right, and delivering the sacred ashes to the vessel on the left
Inside
Passing the Altars of Athreos, you encounter a serene rectangular pool, its water crystal clear and gently stirred by ever-flowing fountain spouts. This pool serves as a place of purification, where pilgrims wash their hands and feet, preparing themselves spiritually to continue their path to the temples.
The atmosphere here is calm and contemplative, with the sound of water softly splashing and the hushed voices of the eight Pantheon maidens who assist the newcomers. The maidens move gracefully, their presence bringing a sense of comfort and hospitality to the pilgrims.
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