The gods of Greek mythology were extraordinarily well-rounded when you get right down to it.

Hermes: god of animals, trade, athletics, and thieves.

Dionysus: god of fertility and wine.

They’re quite the renaissance men don’t you think? Can you think of anyone in modern times who’s mastered such

Allow me to introduce you to Panteleimon Melissinos, the most famous sandal maker in Athens, who also happens to be a painter and playwright extraordinaire. If Hermes were alive today, I think they would get along famously.

Pantelis (what friends and family call him) comes from a long line of multi-talented craftsman; his father, Stavros Melissinos, was not only the sandal maker of choice for Jackie Onassis, the Beatles, and Sophie Loren, but a distinguished poet.

You can find Pantelis in the Plaka neighborhood of Athens in his unpretentious store where he’ll make you a pair of custom fit sandals on the spot.

There are 27 styles to choose from, most of which Pantelis inherited from his father. Some are even named after the famous clients for whom they were designed for, like the ones pictured above which are #20 “Jackie Onassis.”

If you’re lucky and head in early in the morning, you might score a Pantelis original. They sell out quickly though because they’re one of a kind. They’re pretty easy to spot, they’re the only ones with color and embellishments.

All the sandals are made from a light brown Cretan calf leather that darkens beautifully with age. Pantelis says even the Italians go crazy for this leather.
To see all the styles and to place orders, go to melissinos-art.com.

Until next time,
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