Sangri, Naxos Island, Greece
Take full account of the excellencies which you possess, and in gratitude remember how you would hanker after them, if you had them not.
—Marcus Aurelius (A.D. 121–180), Roman soldier
Arising from the fertile fields of Naxos in the Cyclades chain of Greek Islands is the partially reconstructed Temple of Demeter, whom the ancients worshipped as goddess of fecundity and grain. Several important and secretive rituals were associated with Demeter, including one performed in autumn to promote a good harvest. However, the most famous rituals to Demeter were the Eleusinian Mysteries, in which the worshipper petitioned for “prosperity before death.”
If you believe the fecund energy that is said to permeate the ruins of Demeter’s temple might increase the productivity of your spiritual life or other endeavors, come to Greece. Once on the island, the best way to get to the temple is by rental car or car and driver. Start from Hora, drive to Filoti, and follow the signs.
Enjoy an hour of downtime in the open air, walking around or sitting and gazing at the temple. If no one else is around, take time to meditate, and once your mind is calm, ask for inspiration to start flowing. Record your ideas in a notebook.
This temple, unlike many of its ancient counterparts, has a square-shaped floor. A portion of the floor, a wall, columns, and a doorway give an idea of the splendid white stone temple built in the sixth century B.C.