AN ODE
TO HERITAGE

AN ODE TO HERITAGE

Within the inviting grounds of Kalesma Mykonos an artistic masterpiece now stands proud, fusing Greek legacy with the island’s traditions. This is the chapel of Agios Dimitrios, the exceptional final result of a fascinating project that is a veritable ode to Byzantine heritage. The chapel’s unique iconographic exploration was inspired by the hotel owners and the team of Kalesma Mykonos’ creative contributors and now enriches the facilities of Kalesma Mykonos. The beautiful chapel is a special landmark which holds an important religious significance but can also be appreciated as the riveting aesthetic experience that it provides through blending imagery, tradition and music in the most innovative manner. 

The chapel is a modern interpretation of a centuries-old tradition, and it is illustrated by graphic designer/illustrator Gerasimos Chatzis. In times gone by, the aristocratic mansions of the nobility hosted worship areas within their grounds, highlighting a sense of devotion and gratitude to the Divine. Paying tribute to this custom, the owners of Kalesma Mykonos enlisted distinguished Greek design company K-Studio to oversee the exterior design and architecture, emphasising Cycladic touches that tether the chapel to its homeland. Inside, the interior design direction by Vangelis Bonios of Studio Bonarchi, captures a feeling of piety and serenity, diffusing it throughout the space. The innovative project was curated by Kalesma Mykonos owner, Sofia Kousathana and Saint of Athens. 

Additional artful touches are to be encountered within the beautiful church. A brand-new typeface was created for the chapel’s hagiography – a predominantly black Byzantine tribal script that features brilliant gold accents. Elsewhere designer/illustrator Gerasimos Chatzis’ geometric shapes organically find their place in patterns, projecting a three-dimensional experience while friezes narrating the Passions of the Holy Week with its strong messages of meaning and hope taking centre stage. A nod to Greek hagiographers, Hellenistic elements and details from daily life on the island complete the ensemble.

Thanks to its brilliant combination of religious overtones, magnetic artistic nature and Cycladic charm, the chapel of Agios Dimitrios has the power to speak to the souls of all Kalesma’s guests, wherever they may come from.

Credits

Graphic Designer/ Ilustrator: Gerasimos Chatzis

Soundscape: Stefanos Giakoumakis

Design: Exterior: K-Studio and Interior: Vangelis Bonios of Studio Bonarchi

Project curation: Sofia Kousathana & Saint of Athens

 
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