In the capital of Greece we can find authentic historical and architectural wonders, but not all of them date from the classical era. In fact, one of the most important religious temples in the city, the Panagia Kapnikarea Church, represents a different, but just as important, period of this fascinating Mediterranean country.
This church was built in the 11th century, when Athens was still the most important city of the Byzantine Empire. Its long history makes it one of the oldest churches in the Greek capital, making it an invaluable treasure for Athenian citizens.
As was common at the time, Panagia Kapnikerea stands on the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to the deities of Ancient Greece. It is not known exactly which god was worshiped in the place that the church currently occupies, but it is presumed that it was an altar in honor of the goddess Athena, mythical protector of Athens.
The survival of Panagia Kapnikera was at stake many times due to the continuous wars that the country experienced, invasions and urban reforms. At one point, the then king of Greece, Otto I, decided to demolish the church to expand the road where it was located. Fortunately, the proposal was disapproved and the church was not affected.
The legendary construction is very close to one of the best known and most visited neighborhoods in Athens, the Plaka Quarter. So if you go for a walk around the place, this is one of the most fascinating constructions that you could visit.
Likewise, the Panagia Kapnikerea Church is the union of three buildings, which together form the entire structure that keeps the temple standing. In addition, it follows the typical decoration of the first Christian churches built in Greece, since it does not have stained glass or large windows, and its internal distribution is quite simple.
However, its walls and walls present different works of art, all of them religious. The ceiling, the dome and the columns are also decorated in this way.
Due to its small size, it cannot be illuminated with large chandeliers, as is usual in other European churches. It does have these types of lamps inside, but they are small and light, since adding pressure to the structure could damage it considerably.
Getting to the church is not complicated at all, it is in the middle of one of the busiest avenues in the city, and its proximity to the Plaka neighborhood makes it very easy to visit it while you are walking.
As with any other ancient structure, you have to be very careful when entering. Flash photos are prohibited, and you are not allowed to touch the decorations. Despite this, if you can photograph your mosaics and paintings, as long as it is done by taking the appropriate measures.
If you are a lover of the history of Byzantium, and love to explore ancient temples, you will love visiting the Panagia Kapnikerea Church. In addition, there is no entrance fee and you can be there as long as you want.
Remember, you cannot leave Athens without seeing its most fascinating sides, and the Panagia Kapnikerea Church is undoubtedly one of them.
Share it:
© 2021 All rights reserved TRIP AIM
Made in ❤ TripAim
