In the serene, rugged landscape of Neapoli Kozani, Greece, Father Konstantinos Vasiliadis, also known as “Papa-Drone,” is a priest promoting his homeland with his stunning videography.
He is also known as “Papa-razzi,” or “Papa-Voios,” and has become an online sensation. Armed with a drone, a suite of cameras, and audio equipment, he has transformed his local area, Voios, into a YouTube phenomenon.
After his morning church service, Father Konstantinos trades his vestments for video gear. He documents the natural beauty of his region, records traditional festivals, and interviews residents. His videos offer a unique glimpse into the forgotten villages and cultural events of Voios, attracting a huge following, especially among the Greek diaspora in Australia, Germany, and the United States.
“I try to cover as much as I can with images and sound,” he recently told the Athens Macedonia News Agency (AMNA). “I’m almost everywhere to promote our country.”
“Papa-drone” balances his religious duties with his video work
Father Konstantinos serves two villages, Koriphi and Chrysavgi, and says his daily routine is akin to a monastery‘s strict schedule. He takes his children to school and then begins his filming, only pausing during busy holy periods like Easter Week.
The priest is a self-taught technical whiz. He skillfully operates his six cameras, manages power supplies, mixes sound, and flies his drone with remarkable precision. His goal is to highlight the history and beauty of Voios, from its ancient stone bridges to its hidden corners. Through close-ups, long-distance shots, and aerial footage, he captures the essence of the region, hoping to inspire people to visit.
His first foray into technology was modest—a small camera he acquired in 2009 after his son was born. His hobby grew with the support of Greek expatriates and community members. Today, he’s a familiar face at local events, often setting up multiple cameras and his drone to live-stream festivals. The locals have even coined a phrase for him: “An event without our priest is not possible!”
A devotion to his hometown
Despite his growing fame, Father Konstantinos remains humble. When asked if he’d ever consider a career as a television host, he explains that his work isn’t for personal promotion but out of love for his home. He deliberately stays behind the scenes, allowing the stunning scenery and the voices of the locals to take center stage. “I don’t do it for my own promotion, but for the place I love,” he insisted, speaking to AMNA.
With 25 years as a priest and 15 years behind the camera, Father Konstantinos has no plans to stop. He continues to share the stories and sights of Voios, demonstrating how he can perfectly blend his spiritual mission with his love for his community and his craft.
