Hermitage of Saints Anargyroi, Kosmas and Damian: Survey, Analysis, Enhancement

Abstract

The paper presents some results of a research on the Byzantine religious architecture of Mount Kissavos, located close to the Aegean sea in Thessaly. Half of the sixteen churches analyzed and cataloged were surveyed using rapid methods; the other eight were surveyed with range-based and image-based digital instruments. Two of these are rock churches: the hermitage of San Panteleimon in Melivoia and the hermitage of San Anargyroi. The latter, subject of this essay, is located in a natural cavity on a steep rocky ridge and is divided into three connected spaces. The environmental context is particularly suggestive, overlooking a green valley; there are also relevant wall paintings. All this makes the hermitage of San Anargyroi a unique place, which could be further enhanced with the aid of digital use tools (digital anastylosis, holographic projections, virtual visits in situ and remotely, etc.) useful to improve the usability of the monument and the dissemination of knowledge.