Before visiting the Greek Islands, I had no appreciation for the central influence of the Greek Orthodox Church in the lives of Greek people. The church, in large part, defines Greek culture. The churches captivated me with their simple lines and bright colors always enhanced by white washed structures against a blue sky. Crosses, mostly on domed roofs, dominated the skyline.

Other buildings on the islands and the ubiquitous boats followed the same color pattern; white with splashes of color.