Our Lady Chrysopolitissa

The Church of Our Lady Chrysopolitissa on Eolou Street is one of Athens’ most historically relevant churches. The first, medium-sized temple was built on this site under Ottoman occupation. Named after the Holy Monastery of the Great Cave of Mount Athos, the basilica had buttresses on its sides for structural support.

During the siege of the Acropolis by Kioutahi Pasha in 1826, the church was all but destroyed. In 1832 a new church was built to replace the original. A few years later the small church was deemed insufficient, and in 1846 residents began to collect funds to construct a new, larger sanctuary.

These efforts began with the purchase of adjacent lots. After a series of postponements, construction finally began in 1863. After 19 years, in 1892, the church was handed over to its dedicated parishioners by the last supervising architect Ziller, who also is said to have designed the screen.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Information
Address: 62, Aiolou St, Athens
Area: Athens

Transportation: Metro Red Line (2): Panepistimio Station

More Churches & Monasteries

Agios, Georgios, Karytsis

Agios Georgios Karytsis

Athens

Owned by the Athenian Kariki family since the Middle Ages, Agios Georgios Karytsis was nearly destroyed during the Revolution of 1821....

Glyfada Basilica

Glyfada, South Suburbs

This fifth-century Christian church, though in need of repair, stands proudly on Poseidonos Avenue near Glyfada Square....

Ipapanti

Hydra

One of the most famous and historical churches of Hydra is the Church of Ipapanti....

Evangelical, Church

Evangelical Church

Athens

Built in 1871, the Evangelical Church of Athens is located opposite the Columns of Olympian Zeus at the intersection of Lyssikratous Street and Amalias Avenue....

Print Friendly, PDF & Email