Monasteries of Meteora, Kalambaka
The Meteora is a rock formation in central Greece hosting one of the largest and most precipitously built complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries. There were originally twenty-four monasteries with only six left. They are built on immense natural pillars and hill-like rounded boulders that dominate the local area.
These are located near Kalambaka at the northwestern edge of the Plain of Thessaly near the Pineios river and Pindus Mountains. Meteora is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988 and the name means “lofty”, “elevated”, “suspended in the air” and is etymologically related to a meteor. It is also part of the Natura 2000 network hosting some rare species of birds and flowers.
The Meteora is one of the most visited attractions in all of Greece and it offers wonderful opportunities for walkers and climbers to explore the spectacular landscapes and byzantine monasteries perched on top of steep rocks that house priceless artefacts and wall paintings.
Today only six monasteries (four of men, two of women) are active with a small number of monks or nuns who reside on Meteora, in the western region of Thessaly beside the Pindos mountains. These columns of rocks are not volcanic plugs, but rock composed of a mixture of sandstone and conglomerate, which was formed of deposits of stone, sand and mud from streams flowing into a delta at the edge of a lake, over millions of years.
The first people documented to inhabit Meteora after the Neolithic era were an ascentic group of hermit monks. They lived in hollows, caverns and fissures in the rock towers, some as high as 550m above the plain. The monasteries were only built in the 14th century, when the monks wanted to hide away from Turkish attacks. At that time access was only via removable ladder or windlass, as today you can reach the top via steps carved out in the rock.
In 1921, Queen Marie of Romania visited Meteora and was the first woman ever to enter the Great Meteoron monastery. During World War II the site was bombed, and many art treasures was stolen.
During the 16th century there were 24 monasteries which was created to serve monks and nuns following the teachings of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Today only 6 are functioning with the Holy Monastery of St Stephen and the Holy Monastery of Roussanou inhabited by nuns while the remainder are inhabited by monks. Today the monasteries are tourist attractions.
The six monasteries that are still in place today:
- The Monastery of Great Meteoron
This is the starting point of organized life at Meteora. Parched on the most imposing rock, it occupies a commanding position among the monastic comples of Meteora. It is the largest and and most formal monastery as its name implies. It was erected in the mid-fourteenth century and had restoration and embellishment projects in 1483 and 1552. One building serves as the main museum for tourists. The Katholikon (main church), consecrated in honour of the Transfiguration of Jesus was erected in the middle of the 14th century and been decorated in 1483 and 1552.
The Great Meteoron was inhabited for six centuries uninterruptedly and kept important treasures and frescos. The most important buildings are the centre (kitchen), the old age home, and the trapeza (dining hall).
Probably the most interesting part of the monastery is the sacristy which contains shelves of skulls of the monks who lived there over the years. Great Meteoron serves as the main museum for visitors to Meteora.
2. The Monastery of Varlaam
The Monastery of Varlaam is the second largest monastery in the Meteora complex. It was built in 1541 and embellished in 1548. A church, dedicated to All Saints, is in the Athonite type (cross-in-square with dome and choirs), with spacious exonarthex (lite) is surrounded by a dome. IT was built in 1541-42 and decorated in 1548, while the exonarthex was decorated in 1566. North of the church is the parekklesion of the Three Bishops which was built in 1627 and decorated in 1637. The old refectory is used as a museum.
3. The Monastery of Rousanou/St Barbara
It was founded in the middle of the 16th century and decorated with frescoes in 1560 during the leadership of Arsenios. The monastery became a refuge of persecuted individuals and families during the various historical vicissitudes of the nation. During the 19th century the monastery declined and slowly fell into hermitage for the monks of the monastery of Varlaam. Today, after restoration, in 1980, by Archaeological Service, it operates as a nunnery. The monastery is located on the way from Kastari to Meteora between St Nicholas Anapafsas and Varlaam monastery. The building cmplex covers the entire plateau at the top of the cliff and you enter via a bridge to the monastery. The paintings of the ledger in the monastery was made in 1560 and they represent in terms of quality one of the most mature works of paintings of the acme of “Cretan School”.
4. The Monastery of St Nicholas Anapausas
Tjis was built in the 16th century and has a small church which was decorated in 1527 by the Cretan painter, Theophanis Strelitzas. The monastery was abandoned and started to decay, when it was renovated and restored in the 1960’s by Archaeological Services. The construction and installation of the monastery (tall rectangular building with successive levels) adapted to the capabilities of the very small area of the plateau of the rock in which it was built. A small chapel of St Anthony is built on the first floor and the on the wall remain frescoes of the 14th century. On the next floor the church of the monastery was built. And on top is the old bank of the monastery, which was restored and today serves as the official residence (hostel), the ossuary and the renovated, since 1971, church of St John the Baptist.
5. The Monastery of St Stephen
Since the 12th century the rock monastery of St Stephen has been inhabited by monks. A small church was built in the 16th century and decorated in 1545. This monastery rests on a plain rather on a cliff. It was shelled by the Nazis during World War II who believed it was harbouring insurgents, after which it was abandoned. The monastery was given over to nuns in 1961 and they have reconstructed it into a flourishing nunnery. The monastery is located on the southern edge of the cluster of Meteora, just above Kalabaka. Access to the monastery is very easy, since a small bridge connects the modern street at the entrance of the monastery. In the eastern part of the yard is a Hestia, a small square domed building, the stables and other auxiliary rooms of the monastery. In the southeast of the yard is the old church of the monastery and the trapeza, which now houses the museum of the monastery skefofylakio. The old church is now used exclusively for religious use of monks and opens for worship only two days of the year at the celebrations of the monastery, on 27 December and 10 February.
6. The Monastery of the Holy Trinity
It was built in 1475 on top of the cliffs and renovated in 1684, 1689, 1692 and 1741. In 1684 a small sacristy was added to the southeast corner of the church which is connected with the temple. The monastery owned 124 manuscripts including code of the monasteries of Anapausus and Rousanou. For visitors to reach the monastery you have to cross a pedestrian path downhill until the foot of the cliff and then climb 145 carved steps. Northwest of the building complex of the monastery, behind the church the visitor arrives at the highest point of the rock, from the balcony you can enjoy a rare view of the other monasteries and the Meteora rocks.
Tourist information
While there is abundant food and lodging in the nearby towns of Kalamabaka and the village of Kastraki, there’s almost no infrastructure among the actual monasteries themselves, around 5km further up the road. Parking is minimal, so ideally, you’d explore them by foot, by bus or on tour with a local operator.
Meteora Monasteries Opening Hours and Days:
SUMMER TIMETABLE – April 1st to October 31st
| MONASTERY | OPENING HOURS | CLOSED ON | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron | 09:00 to 15:00 | Tuesdays | |
| Holy Monastery of Varlaam | 09:00 to 16:00 | Fridays | |
| Holy Monastery of Rousanou | 09:00 to 17:00 | Wednesdays | |
| Holy Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapausas | 08:00 to 16:00 | Fridays | |
| Holy Monastery of St. Stephen | 09:00 to 13:30 | 15:30 to 17:30 | Mondays |
| Holy Monastery of Holy Trinity | 09:00 to 17:00 | Thursdays |
WINTER TIMETABLE – November 1st to March 31st
| MONASTERY | OPENING HOURS | CLOSED ON | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron | 09:00 to 14:00 | Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays | |
| Holy Monastery of Varlaam | 09:00 to 15:00 | Thursdays and Fridays | |
| Holy Monastery of Rousanou | 09:00 to 14:00 | Wednesdays | |
| Holy Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapausas | 09:00 to 15:00 | Fridays | |
| Holy Monastery of St. Stephen | 09:30 to 13:00 | 15:00 to 17:00 | Mondays |
| Holy Monastery of Holy Trinity | 10:00 to 16:00 | Thursdays |
Mount Athos, Kolpos Agiou Orous
Mount Athos is a remote peninsula up in Northern Greece, housing around 2000 monks from countries like Romania, Moldova, Georgia, Bulgaria, Serbia and Russia. It has 20 Eastern Orthodox Monasteries. It is located in Halkidiki and known to be an autonomous state. Mount Athos is also referred to as “Holy Mountain”. One can see bearded monks and priests performing daily activities along bright hued streets.
The Anthonite Monasteries feature a rich collection of well-perserved artifacts, rare books, ancient documents and artworks of immense historical value. Mount Athos has been listed as a World Heritage site since 1988.
To enter this monastic state is really difficult due to varies reasons like hundreds of steps to be climb, and you have to submit your passport to the Pilgrims’ Bureau of Mount Athos and wait to be admitted. Women and children are not permitted, and Mount Athos does not have any cows or chickens.
One reason for this is believed that Virgin Mary converted the region’s inhabitants after having been wafted toward them on a ship during a storm. Monks have dedicated their land and lives to her. Another reason for no women is to make their celibate life a lot easier.
The actual Mount Athos has steep, densely forested slopes reaching up to 2033 metres. The surrounding seas at the end of the peninsula can be dangerous.
Tourist Information:
Opening Times: Every day, from sunrise to sunset
Mount Athos is land-linked, but only accessible by boat. Ferries and speed boats operate daily, depending on weather.
From Thessaloniki one must travel 130kms by car, taxi or bus. Most visitors embark on one of the vessels leaving from the port of Ouranoupolis on the south side of the peninsula on the gulf of Siggitikos also known as gulf of Agion Oros. If the weather permits there is also a possibility to enter the Mount Athos peninsula from the small port of Ierissos on the northern side, on Strymonian gulf.
Boats from Ouranoupolis take visitors to Daphni, the main port in the middle of the peninsula. On the way, they also make intermediate stops on monasteries along the coast. From Daphni one can catch a bus to Karies, the administrative centre of the monastic society and from there other buses to any of the monasteries. Or, from Daphni one can travel even further south up until Karoulia, at the foot of the mountain, by corresponding boats. Alternatively, from the north side the boat stops to all the monasteries on the sea, until the monastery Megistis Lavras, if the weather is kind.
Generally speaking, the transportation to and from Ouranoupolis is rather easy going. However, the bus routes in Mount Athos are not so easy to arrange and the schedules are very flexible. It is advisable to have our assistance as a local contact to make sure that the visiting plan can be followed.
The visitors, before their visit to Mount Athos will have to take their “Diamonitirio” (permit to reside) from the offices of Mount Athos, at Ouranoupolis (on the right side of the port). The visitors will have to be there, at least one hour before departure, around 8.45 in the morning. In order to get “Diamonitirio” visitors must show their identity cards and pay a certain amount in euro.
Foreign visitors also need:
- A Letter of recommendation from their embassy in Athens or their consulate in Thessaloniki.
- A Permit of entry to Agion Oros from the Greek Foreign Ministry in Athens (Administration Division of Church Affairs) or from the Ministry of Northern Greece in Thessaloniki (Administration of Foreign Affairs).
- Passport.
Procedure to obtain the permit
Everybody, whether orthodox or not, must obtain a permit called a “Diamonitirion” to enter the Athos peninsula.
Make a reservation up to six months in advance, the earlier the better. This can be done by phone, fax or e-mail. You will be required to send a copy of your passport. Include from which port you plan on entering, Ouranoupolis (west) or Lerissos (east). In a couple of weeks, you will receive a letter with further instructions. All reservations will need to be confirmed by telephone two weeks before your intended visit.
If you decide to change your reservation, please do this in advance so as to avoid a negative reaction that could affect your entering at a future date.
In addition to receiving the permit, advance reservations must now be made if you wish to stay overnight at one of the monasteries.
Visitors to Mt Athos are no longer required to personally visit the Pilgrims’ Bureau office in Thessaloniki to register and receive their papers. You now proceed directly to the agreed upon point of entry and your papers will be ready for pick up. There is a cost of 30 euros.
Contact information
Address:
The Mount Athos Pilgrims’ Bureau
109 Egnatia St.
546 22, Thessaloniki, Greece
Greek orthodox citizens can call: 2310-252575
Foreigners: +30-2310-252578
Fax: +3- 2310-222424
E-mail: piligrimsbureau@c-lab.gr
Working hours:
Monday – Friday 9:00 – 16:00
Saturday – 10:00 – 12:00
Closed all holidays
Monastery of Saint John the Theologian – Chora, Patmos
The Monastery of Saint John the Theologian (also named Monastery of Saint John the Divine) is a Greek Orthodox monastery founded in Chora on the island of Patmos. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage site and its named after St John of Patmos.
It was built during the medieval period and it was constructed like a fortress to get rid of pirates and Seljuk Turks. The monastery is also famous for another reason, Saint John wrote his “Book of the Apocalypse (The Revelation), the last book of the Bible, in this Monastery.
330 manuscripts are housed in the library (276 on parchment), including 82 manuscripts of the New Testament.
Since 2012, 40 monks reside there, and you can also find the skull of Saint Thomas the Apostle in the monastery.
Tourist information:
The operation Hours (visiting hours) of the Holy Monastery of Saint John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse are:
Every Morning Daily from 08:00 to 13:30
Afternoons from 16:00 to 18:30 on every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday.
There are some extra operating hours when there are extra cruise ships visiting Patmos island and the visitors are above average. In that case Holy Monastery and the Cave of Apocalypse remain open for the public and all visitors.
Monastery of Hosios Loukas Steiriotis – Distomo, Boetia
The monastery of Hosios Loukas was founded in the early 10th century AD by hermit Venerable (Greek:Hosios) Luke of Steiris (Greek: Lukas), and is situated at a scenic site on the slopes of Mount Helicon. It is a monastery situated near the town of Distomo, in Boetia. Being listed as a UNESCO’s World Heritage Site since 1990, along with the monasteries of Nea Moni and Daphnion, it is one of the most important monuments of Middle Byzantine architecture and art.
Certainly, it’s the largest of the only three surviving monasteries from this period in Greece.
The two churches of the monastic complex are built next to each other, and there is access from one to the other through a passage. The external appearances of these monasteries with mosaics, multicoloured marbles and frescoes are part of this monastery’s impressiveness.
Byzantine art is the only form of European art that began with the end of antiquity and reached its conclusion with the Renaissance, connecting the ancient world with the recent history.
Tourist information:
Before you leave the monastery don’t forget to visit the crypt, located under the Katholicon. There are no mosaics here, but paintings and their subjects are similar, though the style is different, more sentimentally charged and more expressive, clearly proving the wealth and variety of Byzantine art.
To get to the monastery, drive from Delphi on the highway to Livadeia. Approximately 25km down the highway you will see the exit to the Monastery.
Opening times:
Daily from 9am – 5pm, except for Mondays
Address: 32005 Dístomo
Phone: +30 2267 022797
Price: 4 € (-17 years old free of charge)
Daphni Monastery – Chaidari, Athens
This is an 11th century Byzantine monastery situated 11km northwest of central Athens in the suburb of Chaidari, south of Athinon Avenue. It is close to a forest which covers about 18 square kilometres and surrounds a laurel grove.
This monastery was dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in several stages using the stones of an ancient temple dedicated to Apollo which stood on the Sacred Way linking Athens to the sanctuary of Eleusis.
The interior is magnificently decorated with late 11 century mosaics on a gold background, remarkable for their delicate lines and harmonious colours. The crowded scenes of the mosaics narrate scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin. The individual figures represent archangels, prophets, saints, martyrs, bishops. Their arrangement in the dome, the cross-arms, the sanctuary and the eso-narthex were dictated by the concept that the nave represented the universe with the dome symbolising the heavenly vaults and the floor of the earth.
Visitors to the church are immediately drawn to the most important and famous of the mosaics: Christ Pantocrator (Lord of the Universe) watching over all from the crown of the dome.
The exterior of the church has a cloisonné style, which is very common for middle Byzantine churches in Greece. The cloisonné style of masonry consists of rectangular blocks of stone separated or framed on all four sides by bricks. The windows are set off from the cloisonné work by arched frames made of brick. The contrast between the light color of the stone blocks of the cloisonné and the red bricks around the windows, and the orange roof create a sophisticated and understated elegance.
Ground plans of Daphni Monastery
Christ Pantocrator
Tourist Information:
Address: 12462 Haidari
Phone: +30 21 0581 1558
Price: free of charge
Opening hours: Tuesday and Friday 8am-3pm
Church of Megalochari – Island of Tinos
Megalochari, meaning “with all graces”, is located in the island of Tinos. The church was constructed on a hill above Chora, the capital of Tinos, and known as the “protector of Greece”. This is where they found the icon of Virgin Mary which is supposed to possess superpowers. Lots of followers and pilgrims flock to Tinos every year, to express their religious faith and gratitude. In order to show the reverence, the pilgrims go on their knees from the entrance to the church. On the 15th of August celebrations are carried out in an intense emotional ambience.
A holy icon was found in 1823 after a vision of Sister Pelagia and this art-style icon is considered older than the Byzantine period. The Church was built immediately after the discovery of the Holy Icon and they finished the construction of the building in 1830.
Today pilgrims visit the church and leave offerings next to the Icon in the church, to represent their wishes and good health. Next to the holy icon, there is a fountain from where you can take holy water, which can be used in the two baptism rooms in the church.
The Church of Panagia Megalochari in Tinos is actually a monastery complex and was built on a site of an early-Byzantine church dedicated to Saint John. On the ground floor, there is a Chapel of Apocalypse and there is a copy of the icon on the ground floor.
The main church is an impressive building which is all made of marble. This white marble is from Tinos and the church was constructed by local artisans. There is a beautiful bell tower next to the church and stairs lead to the entrance. The atmosphere inside is peaceful and solemn. Services are performed every day. A date on the wooden iconostasis informs visitors that the church opened in 1825.
The Church of Megalochari celebrates three times a year: on January 30th, the date the icon was found; on March 25th the day of the Annunciation of the Virgin, and on 15th of August the day of Assumption of the Virgin. On this day pilgrims and officials flock to the island, while the Hellenic Navy sends a ship to give more glory to the feast. A Holy Service is held in the morning and then a procession of the icon around Chora follows.
Tourist information:
EYAGGELISTRIAS 1, 84200 TINOS
Telephone: (0030) 22830 22256
Monastary of Hozoviotissa Amorgos
The Monastery of Hozoviotissa in Amorgos is the second oldest in Greece built in 1017 and renovated 1088, built by Alexius Comnenus I. It is hanging on a cliff side 300m above sea level, with breathtaking views of the sparkling blue waters of the Aegean Sea. The monastery was created as an ode to the Grace of Panagia, known as the Virgin Mary, who is also the saint protector of the island. Her icon was believed to have arrived on an unmanned boat from Palestine. The icon is carried around the villages on the island every year.
This monastery symbolizes man’s tribute to the Holy Mother. It is by far the pride of Amorgos, with its pristine walls lined with portraits of monks and other leaders. The monks act as guardians and serves psimeni raki (a local liqueur), loukoumi and glasses with honey.
The building is 40m high and 5m wide and has 8 stories that develop in a larger width utilizing functional wall recesses of rock. The church has labyrinth interior and the cells and various auxiliary rooms forming a set that with resourcefulness and usability meets the needs of the monastic brotherhood.
Treasures and icons are kept in a chapel on a higher level which can be reached through a marble doorway leading to stairs.
Some of the famous treasure that can be viewed in the monastery include the Panagia Portaitissa form the 15th century, work from a Cretan school and Gennadio’s Prayer dating back to 1619.
The view is spectacular from the monastery, especially from the top-most balcony. From there you can see a secluded beach and the endless Aegean Sea beyond. It is a 40min walk down to the beach, or it can be reached by a boat or you could swim from Agia Anna beach which is one of the most accessible beaches on Amorgos.
This Monastery is definitely worth a visit for all tourists as it’s a spiritual haven and you won’t leave without being touched by its divinity.
Tourist information:
Panagia Chazoviotissa Amorgos, 840 08
Phone: +30 22850 71274
Opening times: 08:30 – 13:00 and 17:00 – 19:00
Dress code: Visitors need to be dressed decently, men must wear trousers and women long skirts.
Location: By car, it is about 1km outside Chora and then you walk up the steps to the Monastery. By foot from Chora it is about 1.5km around 30 minutes.
Church of Ekatontapiliani – Paros Island
Panagia Ekatontapiliani, meaning the church with 100 doors, is located in Parikia town on the island of Paros. This historic Byzantine church complex, constructed during the 4th century, contains a main chapel surrounded by two more chapels and a baptistery with a cruciform font.
Mother of Constantine the Great, Agia Eleni, stopped at a small church in Paros on her pilgrimage to the Holy Land to find the Holy Cross. She prayed and vowed to build a large church at the site where she finds the Holy Cross. Her prayer was answered, but according to different legends the temple was built by Constantine the Great’s mother Saint Helen.
The church was destroyed by an earthquake in 1773 and restoration began in 1959. The church hosts rare pictures, wood carvings and other religious relics from the Byzantine era and Turkish occupation.
Outside the main church, there are the chapels of Agios Nikolaos, Agia Theodosia, and Agios Dimitrios. There is a baptistery and cells of the monks in the monastery.
The Monastery of Ekatontapiliani celebrates on August the 15th at a large religious festival. It is considered the protector of Paros and its icon believed to be miracle working.
Tourist information:
The Monastery of Ekatontapiliani is located just 5 minutes’ walk away from the central bus station and 2 minutes’ walk from the parking lot.
The central bus station of the island is located at the main port of Paros (Parikia). There are bus connections between this bus station and the most areas of the island. Consider that time schedules might change according to the season.
Since buses don’t always stop in every scheduled stop of their itinerary, our advice to visitors is to inform the driver about their final destination, so that he makes a stop there.
Address: Prompona 18, Paros 844 00, Greece
Phone: +30 2284 021243
Agia Sofia – Monemvasia, Peloponnese
This spectacular clifftop foursquare Byzantine church was built in the 12th century and are one of the oldest and most important of its time. This church was established by emperor Andronicus II and it was dedicated to Panagia Hodegetria, which means the Virgin who leads the way.
Being built on the highest point of Monemvasia, it has spectacular views of the Aegean Sea and the interior of the church is richly decorated with wall paintings.
Agia Sofia was converted into a mosque during the Turkish occupation. The church was damaged during the war times and restored in the middle 20th century by Eustathios Stikas.
Tourist information:
Opening Hours: Every day 9am -5pm
Address: Monemvasia 230 70, Greece
Agia Paraportiani, Mykonos
The church of Panagia Paraportiani, is situated in the neighbourhood of Kastro, in the town of Chora on the island of Mykonos. Its name literally means “Our Lady of the Side Gate”, as its entrance was found in the side gate of the entrance to the Kastro area. It is considered a perfect example of Cycladic architecture and classified as a national monument.
This church is one of the most photographed in Mykonos and in the world.
This small church consists of five small churches built on top or next to each other. The church of Agios Efstathios is in the center, surrounded by the churches of Agios Anargyros, Agios Sozon and Agia Anastasia. On top of these 4 churches is the church of Virgin Mary, which looks like a dome.
The oldest of the five churches is Agios Anargyros and was built in the 14th century. The other churches were built in 16th and 17th century and some renovations were done until 1920’s.
Tourist information:
The Church of Panagia Paraportiani is located in the town of Chora, just a 7-minute walk away from Fabrika central bus station and 5 minutes from a parking lot.
There are two bus stations in Mykonos town, Fabrika and Old Port. Time schedules might change according to the season, please check timetables before travelling. Buses don’t always stop in every scheduled stop of their itinerary, so it is always good to inform the driver of your final destination.
Opening Hours: Every day 24hours
Address: Χώρα, Mikonos 846 00, Greece
Church of Seven Martyrs – Sifnos island
The Seven Martyrs church is located in Kastro, the old capital of Sifnos island. Located on the top of a rocky peninsula that emerges from the sea. This is one of the most photographed spots on Sifnos island.
The church bears characteristics of the Cycladic architecture, whitewashed walls with a blue dome. The church is linked to the main island with stairs along the rock. Winds blow often and could be disturbing for visitors walking down to the church. Sometimes they could also feel tiny drops from the waves when the wind blows.
In calmer weather people tend to sunbath at the flat rocks beneath the church, but it is not recommendable as strong winds and waves are part of the island.
Tourist information:
Usually closed but open for pilgrims on special occasions and religious celebrations.
Address: Kastro 840 03, Greece
Anastasi Orthodox Church – Santorini
This church is located in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Tourist Information:
Unnamed Rd Santorini Greece,
Imerovigli 847 00,
Greece
Phone: +30 0406 213481
Saint Andrews Cathedral, Patras
Cathedral of Saint Andrews is located in the west side of the city centre of Patras. This Greek Orthodox basilica along with the old church of St Andrew serves as a place of pilgrimage for Christians all over the world. The old church of St Andrew was built in 1835 and was designed by Lysandros Kaftatzoglou.
Saint Andrews Cathedral is the protector saint of Patra and has the largest dome in the Balkans. Construction of this Byzantine-style church started in 1908 by Anastasios Metaxas, followed by Georgios Nomikos and only completed by 1974.
The church has a capacity of 7000 people and therefore is the largest church in Greece. Over the central dome is a 5m long gold plated cross and over the other domes, there are 12 smaller crosses which symbolises Jesus and His apostles. Inside the interior is decorated with wall paintings and mosaics.
Many artefacts of apostle Saint Andrew is stored in the church which consists of the small finger, top of the Apostle’s cranium and small portions of the cross he was martyred, all kept in a special shrine.
Tourist information:
Address: Evmilou 4, Patra 262 22, Greece
Phone: +30 261 033 0644
Panagia Makrini, Samos
The chapel of Panagia Makrini in Samos is dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos. It was built in a cave in the 10th century during the times of St Paul Latrinos. It is situated to the west of Mount Kerkis, and the roof of the church is only 15m high.
The church is painted white and decorated with frescoes from the 14th century, with depictions of birds, plants and animals. The groin vault bears the building date of 16 August 1764. Human bones as been founded, probably from former monks living there.
In older times this church use to be part of a larger monastery. The area is known as “askitaria”, due to ascetics who use to live in the caves of the mountain. According to a Patriarchal Sigillion from 186, the monastery belonged to the Monastery of Saint George Sinai in Monidrion Kastania.
Tourist information:
30min walk along tracks
Panagia Kapnikarea, Athens
One of the oldest churches in Athens this Greek Orthodox church was built in the 11th century, around 1050. It is located in the city center of Athens, near a high traffic shopping area of Ermou street at the edge of the Plaka district.
The church was built on the ruins of an ancient temple that was dedicated either to goddess Athena of Demeter. The church’s name, Kapnikarea, originates from the founder’s profession who was a collector of the so-called “kapnikon” tax.
The name might have also derived from the word “kapnismeni” which means ‘smoked’ in Greek, as there are marks of fire on the building. Other popular names exist like “Kamoucharea” and Chrisokamouchariotissa”.
The church of Kapnikarea may have originally been the katholikon of a monastery. The building consists of three buildings attached together. First the largest south church dedicated to the Presentation of Mary to the Temple was built, then the Chapel of St Barbara on the northern side and last the exonarthex with the propylon to the west.
The interior has many preserved illustrations and major renovation work and new iconography has been done by the famous hagiographer Fotis Kontoglou.
During the reign of King Otto, it was planned to demolish the church, as it was not in the urban plan of the architect, Leo von Klenze, luckily it was saved by the intervention of King Ludwig of Bavaria. Today the church belongs to the University of Athens.
Tourist information:
The church is an active place of worship and appropriate clothing is required. Photography is prohibited inside the church.
Opening Times: 08:00 – 21:00
Address: Ermou 55, Kapinkareas 2, Athina 105 63, Greece
Phone +30 2103 224462
The Church of Panagia Kapnikarea is located in a central area of Athens, it can be easily reached on foot from Syntagma, in less than 10 minutes.
The closest metro station is “Monastiraki” on lines 1 and 3. The Church of Panagia Kapnikarea is located within a 5-minute walking distance from the metro.
The closest bus stop is “Monastiraki”. It can be reached with Busses 25, 26, and 27.
Panagia tou Bourgou Rhodes
The construction of the church took place around the 14th century AD during the rule of the Grand Master Villeneuve. It is a three-aisled basilica of Gothic order. It had various names over the centuries, such as “Panagia Eleous” (the Virgin of Mercy) and “Panagia of Metropolis” (the Virgin of the Metropolis).
During the Italian rule from 1912 – 1943, restoration work was launched and to this day it is still underway. The Gate of our Lady was opened in 1955.
It is no longer operating as a church, but several cultural events are hosted there.
Tourist information:
Opening Times: All day, Free Admission
Our Address: Church of Panagia tou Bourgou (Our Lady of the Bourg)
GPS: 36.442899145211285, 28.230912387371063
Agios Spyridon, Nafplion
The church is located in the Old Town of Nafplion. In 1702 the Nafplian Brotherhood of Orthodox Greeks raised funds to build the Church of Agios Spyridon in the center of the city. It is a single dome basilica with numerous Byzantine paintings on the walls. The most colourful fresco is the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea. There is also a hexagram (Star of David) on the floor, which is very rare for Greek Orthodox churches.
In 1831 the Greek head of state, Ioannis Kapodistrias was assassinated at the entrance of the Church of Agios Spyridon by members of a rival clan. It was inappropriate to hold his funeral at the church, but his internal organs were put in a casket and placed under the altar at the Church of Agios Spyridon.
In 1853 a bell tower was constructed. The church still displays bullet damage from the assassination, with a mark by the bullet that allegedly killed Kapodistrias framed in a brass and glass case located on the right side of the entrance.
Tourist information:
The church is open sporadically during the day and early evenings. It holds liturgy every Sunday and commemorates St Spyridon with a feast each year on 12th December.
Address: 4 I. Kapodistriou, Nafplio, 211 00, Greece
GPS: 37.5655, 22.7968
Church of Agia Anna – Amorgos
The small church of Agia Anna is built on a rock by the sea. It is built near Agia Anna beach and is famous for its pure traditional style. As this is a very romantic place, many couples come to Amorgos to get married.
The beach owns its name to the eponymous chapel that lies 100m from here. If you dive into the water and swim a few meters into the sea, there is a dramatic drop and it may suddenly be 20m deep.
The church is also part of movie scenes in the “Big Blue” which was made in 1988. The beach of Agia Anna is accessible from Amorgos town (3.5km) using a narrow-asphalted road that is full of sharp turns.
Metropolitan Church of Athens Evangelismos Theotokou
The Metropolitan Cathedral is the church of the Archbishop of Athens and all of Greece. Construction of the church started in 1842, on Christmas Day under the architect Theophil Hansen and was continued by Dimitris Zezoz, Panagis Kalkos and Francois Bolanger. Construction was stopped in 1843 due to a lack of funds, and the church was only completed on 21 May 1862. The Cathedral was dedicated to the Annunciation of the Mother of God, by the King and Queen.
The cathedral was constructed with marble from 72 abandoned or ruined churches. The interior includes frescoes and icons. The Cathedral has a three-aisled dome that measures 40m long, 20m wide and 24m high. Inside you can find 2 saints that was killed by the Ottoman Turks, Saint Philothei and Patriarch Gregory V.
There is another little church to the left of the Cathedral, which is called the Church of St Eleftherios (Little Mitropoli). This 12th century chuch is decorated with 90 relief scenens and dedicated to Agios Eleftherios and have crosses carved all over them.
There are two statues in the Square in front of the Cathedral. It is of Saint Constantine XI the Ethnomartyr, last Roman emperor and the second one is of Archbishop Damaskinos, who was Archbishop of Athens during World War II and was Regent for King George II and Prime Minister of Greece in 1946.
The Metropolitan Cathedral is still a very important landmark as it holds important ceremonies with national political figures as well as weddings and funerals of notable personalities.
Tourist information:
Opening Times: 6:30 am – 19:00pm
Address: Mitropoleos, Athina 105 56, Greece
Located in: Square Mitropoleos
Phone: +302103352380
BY BUS: 025, 026, 027
BY FOOT: Follow Metropoleos Street, from Syntagma Square all the way down until you meet up with Metropoleos Square (with the Metropolitan Cathedral). This will take approximately 5 minutes.
Catholic Church of Basilica of St Dionysius the Areopagite
This is the main Roman Catholic church of Athens and the seat of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Athens. It is located in central Athens, at the junction of Panepistimiou Avenue with Omirou Street and is dedicated to Saint Dionysius the Areopagite, disciple of the Apostle Saint Paul and the first bishop of Athens.
Saint Dionysius the Areopagite became the second bishop of Athens and he was a judge of Areopagus who converted to Christianity. Funds for the cathedral’s resurgence were raised by the Greek-Roman Catholic community and the Catholic church abroad.
The building process of the Cathedral was completed in 1853, after it was designed by architect Leo von Klenze, while Greek architect Lyssandros Kaftantzoglou took up the revision of the original plans. This three-aisled basilica has a Neo-Renaissance style with arches and pillars and simple architectural lines of Athenian classicism. The architecture is influenced by St Boniface’s Abbey in Munich.
The church is 38m long, 15m high and 24m wide. Inside the church is decorated with frescoes, with works from the Italian painter Rimini Guglielmo Bilancioni. The church floor is paved with Pentelic marble and the nave is supported by 12 columns of 5 meters of green marble from Tinos. In 1888 the architect Paul Chambaut designed the platform of the chorus with the pipe organ on top.
In the lower part of the church is eight vitraux on both sides of the windows which was made in 1890 in Munich by Karl de Bouchet. The church was renovated in 1960 and in 1962 Princess Sofia of Greece married Juan Carlos of Spain in this church.
Architects Yannis Kiziz and Dimitris Leventis renovated the church inside and outside during 1992 – 1998, which made this church a must see today.
Tourist Information:
Hours: Monday to Sunday 07:30am-12:30pm, 17:30-19:30pm
Phone: +30 2103 62 3603
The closest Metro station is Panepistimio on line 2, which is 5min walk to the church. The closest Bus stop is Omirou.
Panagia Karmiotissa, Cyprus
The Panagia Karmiotissa, located in Limassol, Cyprus is a former Carmelite monastery. Today this is a pilgrimage church of the Orthodox Church near Cyprus and is the only surviving Gothic sacred building in Limassol from the Frankish Crusaders rule of the house Lusignan in Cyprus.
It is believed that the church was built around the end of the 13th century, beginning of the 14th century by Catholic monks from the mountains in Palestine and dedicated it to Panagia Eleousa, known as Panagia Karmiotissa.
This one-aisled church is 16.2m long and 5.5m wide with a roof shaped with pointed arches, reinforced in the middle with a pointed bow. To the north of the church is a cave deep in the gushing miraculous Virgin of the Holy Water. Many Christians come to faith and take the holy water.
Every year on the Tuesday of Easter the Temple is celebrated and hundreds of believers express their gratitude to the Virgin Mary.
Tourist information:
Open 24 hours
Address: 9 Limassol 3067, Cyprys
GPS: 34.7118,32.9792
Church of Agios Dionysios, Zakynthos
Agios Dionysios is the largest church in Zakynthos, and building works started in 1925 and being completed in 1948. In 1953 a devasting earthquake struck the island and by some sort of miracle the church did not have any damage to it. Locals consider it a miracle and a blessing.
Agios Dionysios was born in 1547 in Zakynthos and was the son of an aristocratic family. He had a Christian upbringing, was well educated and spoke Italian, Greek and Latin. His parents died when he was 20 years old and he decided to donate his estate to his brother and joined a monastery a few miles of the coast of Zakynthos.
He became a priest at the monastery and later became the Archbishop of Aegina. He spent his last years at the Monastery of the Virgin Anaforitria in Zakynthos before he died at the age of 75 on 17 December 1622. He was buried in the church of Agios Georgios in Strofades.
At that same Monastery an unknown man came by one night and asked for Dionysios’s help after committed a murder. After finding out it was his brother that was killed, he decided to help the man escape to prevent another crime, as he was chased by family members.
Local tradition affirms that the murderer returned and became a monk in that same monastery.
Every year the memory of Dionysios is celebrated on 17 December. A Feast is held to celebrate Agios Dionysios, Patron Saint, the Protector of the island.
Tourist information:
Address: Markovitz 1, Zante, Zakynthos
More Info: South side of Zakynthos Town harbour
Phone: +03 2695 043805
Agios Ioannis – Skopelos
Agios Ioannis is located 30km north west of Skopelos town and 8km from Glossa village. It is one of the most picturesque locations in Skopelos, as it is surrounded with turquoise waters and majestic landscapes.
The church of Agios Ioannis perched high on the rocks at a height of 100m, overlooking the small cove and offering breath taking views to the coasts of Skopelos and Alonissos.
There are 198 steps to get to the church and the church became famous after the American movie Mamma Mia (2007), as it was the setting for Sophie’s wedding.
Tourist information:
Address: Skopelos, Sporades Islands, Greece
There is no public transport to the site which is 2.3km of the main bus route.
Make sure to wear good shoes and bring a bottle of water and sunscreen.
Not suitable for people with walking difficulties.
Church of St Isidoros – Chios Island
The Church of St Isidoros is located north of Chios town, near the village of Vrontados. The small church was built on the same site where the first church of Chios was founded in the third century.
This church is considered one of the 30 most beautiful churches in Greece due to its location that combines mountain and sea, at the edge of a gulf.
Most of the relics of St Isidore were removed from Chios in 1125 by the Venetian fleet and deposited in St Mark’s Cathedral in Venice in 1356 AD. Today most of the relics can be seen in the chapel of St Isidore in the Cathedral of St Mark in Venice. Fragments are kept in the Diocese of Chios and in the Monastery of Philotheos on Mount Athos.
Tourist information:
Address: Agiou Isidorou, 8200 Vrontados, Greece
GPS: 38.401099162107, 26.131712347269
Telephone: +30 22710 92701
Monastery of Elona – Lakania
The monastery is located on the slopes of Parnonas and dates back to the 14th century. It is dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary.
Following the failure of the revolution of 1770, the Ottomans destroyed the region as a reprisal, demolishing the monastery. The monastery was rebuilt in the late 18th century. Since 1971 it has been converted into a women’s monastery.
Nowadays the monastery has renovated cells and auxiliary areas. Access to the complex is through stairs that lead to two successive gates that are protected by murder-holes. Literally on the edge of the rock, an impressive corridor approximately 100m long leads to the buildings that are built on various levels and are connected with stairs and corridors.
The catholicon, built according to rubble masonry, is a small aisleless basilica, which according to an inscription dates from 1809, while its bell tower was added in 1831. At its interior there are no wall paintings as decoration, but only wooden-carved screen of the 19th century. At the church’s altar area there are showcases with relics, gospels, sacred relics and dedications.
The monastery celebrates on the 23rd of August and the 21st of November.
Tourist information:
Address: Monastery Elonas, 223 00, Kosmas, Greece
St Stefano – Syros island
Agios Stefanos is a beautiful chapel in the area of Galissas built among the rocks in a cave. The chapel was built by a fisherman who was saved from the tentacles of a large Octopus after praying to the Saint to help him. A small path leads to the chapel and it is situated 15minutes walk from the beach. The chapel can also be reached by boat.
Agios Stefanos is celebrated on the 19th of August and on the 26th December and hordes of people visit the chapel to attend the liturgy. Following the liturgy all pilgrims are offered “loukoumi” the sweet local delights as well as mastic from Chios.
Tourist information:
Address: Galissas 841 00, Greece
Church of Holy Apostles, Athens
The Church is located on the western side of the Ancient Agora of Athens, next to the Stoa of Attalos and dates from the middle 10th century. This church it the only monument in the Agora, other than the Temple of Hephaestus, to survive intact since its foundation.
The architecture of this church is the beginning of the “Athenian-type”, the simple four-pier with the cross-in-square forms. The altar and the floor were originally made from marble. The floor plan had a cross with apses on four sides, a narthex on the west side, and four columns supporting the dome. There are many 17th century wall paintings in the church. The outer walls have Kufic-like decorative patterns.
The Church of the Holy Apostles is also known as the Holy Apostles of Solaki and this church was constructed over a 2nd century sanctuary of the Numphes (nymphaioin) and partly on a Byzantine residence. The Solakis were either the family who sponsored the renovations of the church or who populated the area around the chapel in the 19th century. The last renovation of the church was between 1954 and 1957.
Tourist information:
The Church of the Holy Apostles is located in a central area of Athens, and can be easily reached in less than 20 minutes on foot from Syntagma metro station.
The closest metro stations are “Thissio” on line 1 and “Monastiraki” on lines 1 and 3. The Church of the Holy Apostles is located within a 7-minute walking distance from the metro stations.
Church of Agios Nikolaos, Mykonos
The church of Agios Nikolaos is a small Orthodox Church built in the 4th century in honor of Saint Nicholas, the protector of sailors and fisherman. It is located in the Old Port of Mykonos Town close to restaurants and café’s next to the sea.
It has minimal interior with a few icons of the Virgin Mary and Apostles. This post-Byzantine era church offers candles that can be lit by visitors inside the church. It also has black and white tiled floors with a beautiful painting of the starry night on the ceiling.
The exterior is in harmony with the traditional style of Mykonos, white building with a blue dome. Outside the church there are benches for the elderly to sit and rest or to take photos from.
Tourist information:
Address: Yalos, Chora, Mykonos, Cyclades, Greece, 84600
Church of Agia Mavra, Zakynthos
The Church of Agia Mavra is located in the village of Maherado, around 10km west of the island’s capital Zakynthos Town. Being built during the 14th century this church is one of the most important and famous churches of Zakynthos. It consists of a Venetian belfry, built in a way that every bell ring can be heard throughout Zakynthos.
The church has a remarkable collection of fine icons and frescoes painted by famous Greek artists. Among those art pieces one can admire the icon of Agia Mavra which is said to be miraculous. Innumerable offerings surround the icon amongst them the famous and valuable jewel of Queen Olga.
In December 2005 the inside of the church was destroyed by a fire. Fortunately, the icon of Agia Marva was not damaged and up until today locals are busy restoring the church.
The feast of Agia Marva is celebrated on the 3rd of May when the villagers and other Zakynthians gather in the church to pray all night long. And on the second Sunday of July they have a feast where you just have fun.
Tourist information:
Address: Machairado 290 92, Greece
Chrysopigi church, Sifnos
Located in the south eastern part of Sifnos between Faros and Platis Gialos, it is a reference point for the island and also the patron saint and protector of the island since 1964.
It was built in 1615 to house the miraculous icon of Zoodohos Pigi, which saved the fishermen of the island from the sea. From 1760 it is a monument of the monastery of Vrysiani, as it is named after the monk Virgo, who named it after his previous monastery, Chrysopigi of Chania.
The monastery is a white building at the edge of the peninsula. According to tradition the rock on which it was built, was miraculously split in half in order for women, who used to light up the vigil lights, to be saved from pirates.
It is worth visiting the single-arch bridge which connects the torn rock, the old stone iconostasis of the church, the cells of Aristomenis Provelegios and Antonis Dekavalles, and the cistern of the sanctification.
Since 1964, on the celebration of the Ascension, there is a large pilgrimage in Chrysopigi and throughout the year many weddings and christenings are performed. The rocks of Chrysopigi are famous to the visitors and the locals as the waters are green and lucid.
Tourist information:
Always open.
Address: Chrysopigi, 840 03, Greece
Panagia Kastriani church – Kea
The monastery is located on the northern side of the island, 12km from Ioulida, the capital of Kea. It is constructed on the location Kastri, which is why the monastery was named Kastriani. Around 1700 AD, a few shepherds saw a light on top of Kastri hill and when they climb to the top, they found a cave and started digging when they found an icon of Virgin Mary.
The believers interpreted this icon as sacred and precious and therefore they built a church on that spot that survived until today. In 1912 a larger church was also constructed that is the katholikon of the monastery till nowadays.
In the premises of the monastery, there is also a two-storey building with guest houses, cells and auxiliary rooms. The entrance is coloured in blue and white and there is a tall bell tower. Every year on the 15th August they celebrate with a large panigiri. Its location offers breath taking views of the Aegean Sea and island of Andros.
Tourist information:
Address: Kea, 840 02, Greece
Ag Minas – Heraklion
This is a Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Heraklion serving as the seat of Archbishop of Crete. This church is dedicated to Saint Menas the martyr and wonderworker, who is the patron saint of Heraklion.
The church was built over a period of time from 1862-1895. The construction got interrupted during the Cretan Revolution of 1866-1869. The church is 43.2m long and 29.50m wide and it has a cruciform architecture with a central dome.
Agios Minas is still the guardian of Heraklion, celebrated on the 11 November, a bank holiday in town.
Tourist information:
Opening Times: 08:00 until sunset
Entrance fee: Free admission
Supervised by: Holy Archdiocese of Crete
Panagia Oia, Santorini
Panagia is a blue-topped church located in Oia on the island of Santorini. In the evenings many people gather at the small gate of the church to watch the beautiful sunset on this Holy island. There are 6 bells in the church of which the sizes are not the same.
Tourist information:
At the bus stop turn left and walk up the small stone steps to reach the church.
Address: Main Square, Oia 847 02, Greece
Church of the Metamorphosis (Kottakis), Athens
The church of Transfiguration (Metamorphosis) is situated at the heart of Plaka, on Kydathinaion Street. This church was built in the second half of the 11th and twelfth century and was restored later.
The church is also called Kottakis Church, to distinguish from the other Church of Metamorphosis in Upper Plaka, which in turn called also Sotiraki Church, after the Athenian family who owned it.
In front of the church some ancient columns are reused as benches. Ancient columns are reused also inside the Church.
This Byzantine church has undergone many aesthetically questionable renovations over the years. Originally dedicated to Virgin Mary the Saviour, it functioned as a Russian church from 1847 until 1855. While frescoes from the 18th century can still be seen in the church, its invaluable Byzantine-era frescoes have been lost.
Today the church still possesses some truly remarkable icons, such as a Virgin Mary dating from the 14th century and other race religious artefacts.
Tourist information:
Address: Kydathineon, Plaka
Area: Athens
Transportation: Metro Red Line (2): Acropoli Station
Church of Saint Panteleimon of Acharnai, Athens
The Church of Saint Panteleimon of Acharnai is a Greek Orthodoc church in the center of Athens. It is 63m long and 48m wide and it’s the biggest church in Greece. The church is located in the downtown of Athens, north of Victoria Square, close to the high traffic Acharnon Avenue.
Building of the church started on 12 September 1910 by King George I of Greece and it was consecrated on 22 June 1930 and the building works were completed in the early 1980’s. It was built on a location of a former smaller temple dedicated to Agios Panteleimon.
Giannis Karouzos (1937-2013) created the paintings inside the church and it took him 23 years to complete the interior walls of the church.
Besides being a monument of major religious and architectural significance, the church of Agios Panteleimon stands out due to the active presence of the clergy, with a frequent organization of seminars on Byzantine music and traditional organs that promote the celebration of the Orthodox cultural heritage.
Tourist information:
As the Church of Saint Panteleimon of Acharnai is located in a central area of Athens, it can be easily reached on foot from Victoria metro station, in approximately 8 minutes.
The closest metro stations are “Victoria” on line 1 and “Attiki” on lines 1 and 2. The Church of Saint Panteleimon of Acharnai is located approximately within a 10-minute walking distance from both metro stations. The closest bus stop is “Ag. Panteleimon”.
Church of Panagia, Lindos Rhodes
The church of Panagia can be found just a couple of minutes’ walk form the main square into the labyrinth of Lindos alleys. It is surrounded by high walls and a small courtyard. The church was built in 1300 but since then it had undergone several reconstructions, with the most recent one in 1927 during the Italian occupation.
A typical Rhodian church feature it the high-rise, stone-built campanile tower. The main building has a cross-shaped plan superimposed by an octagonal dome, whitewashed walls and red byzantine tiles roof.
The interior pavement is made of pebble mosaic (hohlaki) which is very popular in the Rhodian traditional architecture. In the front of the church is a beautifully decorated wooden iconostasis and a Bishop’s throne while large bronze layered candle chandeliers are hanging from the roof.
The frescoes on the wall are depicting bible scenes. The barrel-vaulted roof and dome are also covered in impressive frescoes from the famous Gregorios of Symi dating back to 1779, depicting icons of Mary, Jesus and the saints. Over the doorway at the back of the church there is a colourful fresco of The Last Judgement.
A device of the Grand Master D’Aubusson can be seen on the western door of the church as well as an inscription bearing the dates 1489/1490, dates of the additions made to the building.
Tourist information:
Opening times: 24 hours. Best time to visit between 2pm-4pm. Require 30minutes to visit the church.
Address: Lindos 851 07, Greece
Clothing must be modest – shorts not allowed, and girls must wear long skirts. Pictures not allowed to be taken inside. Ask the timings for mass and see if you can attend.
Church of St Nicholaos Rangavas, Athens
The church is located north east of the Acropolis between Pritaneiou and Epicharmou streets in Anafiotika. This is one of the most important Byzantine monuments of Athens and dates back to the beginning of the 11th century.
The church was named after the Rangavas family that was well established in Athens and Constantinople whose best-known member was Emperor Michel I Rangabe. The Rangavas played such a big role in Athens that they named a nearby gate on the defensive walls, the Rangavas Gate.
On the north-eastern side of the church one can see the characteristics of mid-Byzantine arrangements like the facades and the spaces. There are large vertical tiles, sculpted four-sided stone has been used surrounded by bricks and it is decorated with kufic brick patterns. Another significant element is the double row of dentils around the whole exterior of the church.
The dome of the church is small and has eight sides and is of the Athenian type. The church bell was installed after the liberation of the Turks and was first rung in 1833 to announce the freedom of Athens. Today it is a Parish Church.
Tourist information:
Opening times: Agios Nikolaos Ragavas is open daily between 08.00 and 12.00 and between 17.00 and 20.00.
Address: Prytaneiou 1, Athina 105 58, Greece
Public transport: Subway lines 1 (Green line) and 3 (Blue line) can take you as far as Monastiraki station. Subway line 2 (Red line) can take you as far as Acropoli station.
Phone: +30 21 0322 8193
Church of the Acheiropoietos Thessaloniki
This 5th century Byzantine church is located in the city centre of Thessaloniki at Agias Sofias street opposite Makedonomachon square. The Acheiropoietos dates back to ca. 450-470, making it one of the city’s earliest surviving churches. It was renovated in the 7th century and again in the 14th-15th century. In Byzantine time this church was also known as Panagia Theotokos and it is dedicated to Mary.
In 1988 it is one of the 15 Paleaochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki that were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
This tree-aisled basilica is 28m wide and 36.5m long, with a wooden roof. It was built on a Roman public baths complex, parts of which are preserved outside and beneath the church. In the Early Christian period, the north-east part of the baths seems still to have functioned, and a large room with a niche survives in the north precinct of the church.
Its eastern end is a semicircular vault, while on the western side a narthex, flanked by towers, and traces of an exonarthex survive. The three aisles are separated by columns, while the two side aisles have galleries above them. There is a chapel dedicated to St Irene which is attached to the eastern end of the northern side aisle.
Another small building on the south side has been identified as the baptistery. The modern roof is lower than the original, where the section above the central nave was elevated to allow light in.
The interior of the church is decorated with 5th century Ionian capitals from the Constantinopolitan workshop, green Thessalian marble columns, Proconnesian marble pavement and fragments of the 5th century mosaics.
A few wall-paintings in poor condition survive from the Byzantine period of the church, on the wall above the south colonnade. The representation depicts the Forty Martyrs of Sebasteia, who were martyred in the reign of the emperor Licinius. Only eighteen figures of martyrs are preserved, in a rhythmic, linear arrangement.
Full-length figures above the columns alternate with busts of martyrs on the surfaces of the wall above the summit of each arch. They are shown wearing military uniform, each holding a cross symbolizing their martyr’s death. At either end of the row of martyrs is a candlestick with a lighted candle, a symbolical element found with scenes of a funerary character.
The Acheiropoietos was converted in a mosque in 1430 by Sultan Murad II, after the Ottoman conquest. It was called the Eski Camii (Old Mosque).
Tourist information:
Opening times: Monday – Saturday 08:00 -12:00 and 17:00-19:00
Address: Agias Sofias 56, Thessaloniki 546 35, Greece
Phone: +30 231 027 2820
Latomos Monastery – Church of Hosios David Thessaloniki
The church of Hosios David is a late 5th century church in Thessaloniki and during Byzantine times it functioned as a katholikon of the Latomos Monastery. It received rich mosaics and frescoes as decoration and was renovated in the 12th-14th century. IT was built over an earlier Roman building.
The church was converted to a mosque in the 16th century under Ottoman rule and during 1921 it was reconsecrated as a Greek Orthodox church. It was also included on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1988.
The architecture of the church consists of cross patterns with squares as the main shape of the plan. The structure contained square bays in the corners and connects with the main cross room via hallways and connects the outside.
The structure was hit by an earthquake during the middle Byzantine era and some parts collapsed including the tribelon.
The church is decorated with crosses, vines and leaves in swirling detail. Under the plaster of the church Byzantine murals were found which dates back to 1160-1170. These murals consisted of fresco paintings like the nativity, our lady of the passion, Christ on mount of Olives, entry into Jerusalem, theophany and images of baptism and transfiguration. After earthquakes, cracking, and water damage these paintings was covered by plaster during the Turkish era.
Tourist information:
Address: 17 Epimenidou Street, Ano Poli
Opening Hours: Every day 10:00-14:00
Bus 22: bus stop Hosios David
Bus 23, 50: bus stop Taxiarchon
Chapel of Panagia Kavouradena, Leros
Panagia Kavouradena in Xirokambos is a beautiful church on the island of Leros. It is believed that a fisherman was collecting shells when he was bitten by a crab. At the same time, he found an icon of Virgin Mary between the rocks. He prayed and then the wound got healed.
That night he got a dream, a woman dressed in black told him to put the icon back where he found it. He decided to build a church exactly where he found the icon. The icon of Virgin Mary is decorated with a big crab.
Every year the Miraculous Icon of Virgin Mary gets celebrated on the 8th of September or 15th of August.
