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SATURDAY Jan. 28 - Hania and Aptera.

From Political to Ancient THEATER.

Today we drove to Hania with Irmeli and Mikko to cast our votes in the 2nd election day in electing a new President for Finland. Two candidates to choose from - the ones that had most votes last time. So, a simple choice for us!

Having performed our role in a casual ceremony in the Honorary Consulate of Finland we acted upon a whim when driving back home. We always pass the crossing leading to ancient Aptera, and now we took that road up!

And arrived at a more ancient theatrical site than where today's political roles are played!

The Aptera Theater (from 14th century B.C.) where the ruling nation in the area enjoyed plays! Until an earthquake in the 7th century B.C. made an end to their power.

Later powers - Romans - built this vaulted cistern that was in use from 4th century B.C. to 1st century A.D.

Even later powers - Bysantine rulers - built a fortress to the site of the ancient high power.

After the fall of the Bysantine rule a small Christian Chapel was erected within the fortress.

Quite a lesson in history for us today! But let's hope that modern history will be re-written in Finland, and our candidate will win in the actual election in Finland on February 5. Electing a person who is both socially and politically exceptional would prove that we Finns have a broad mind in understanding peace and equality both nationally and internationally!