In Greek mythology, Athos was a giant from Thrace, who for many years fought against Poseidon - the god of the sea. Finally, Poseidon slew him and buried him under the high mountain which took the giant's name. According to a codex in the library of The Monastery of Great Lavra, the Virgin Mary, Mother of God, visited the place and blessed the Mountain and all its inhabitants and her prayers were answered by a voice from Heaven promising that the Mountain would be a sanctuary and place of atonement for all those seeking salvation and would be known, from there on, as the "domain and garden of the Holy Virgin". I can testify myself, after my first visit there, that it is a place of tranquility and peace, which marks you for the rest of your life. You really feel yourself closer to God. I wish to thank to my Greek friends, who make this event possible.