Church of the Holy Apostles

I’m excited to share with you one of my favourite hidden gems in this ancient city. Nestled within the heart of the Ancient Agora of Athens, the Church of the Holy Apostles is a must-visit destination for anyone. So, why should you visit the Church of the Holy Apostles? Let me count the ways.

First, let’s talk about its name. The Church of the Holy Apostles, also known as Agii Apostoli, is dedicated to the Apostles, the original followers of Jesus Christ. The church was believed to be built to honour and celebrate their teachings. In fact, the church has another name, “Holy Apostles of Solaki,” which refers to the Solakis family that funded its construction.

The Church of the Holy Apostles is situated in the heart of the Ancient Agora of Athens, an archaeological site filled with remnants of the ancient city. You can find it at the northwest corner of the Agora, just steps away from the world-famous Acropolis. It’s amazing to think that you’re walking on the same ground as Socrates and Plato once did thousands of years ago!

Speaking of history, the church dates back to the 10th century, making it over 1,000 years old. It was built during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Leo VI the Wise, known for patronising the arts and religious institutions. This beautiful, historic church has stood the test of time, witnessing the rise and fall of empires and surviving multiple invasions.

When you first approach the church, you’ll be struck by its unique architectural design. The Church of the Holy Apostles is an exquisite example of the Byzantine “cross-in-square” architectural style. It features a central dome supported by four columns, with four smaller domes surrounding it. The exterior is adorned with beautiful brickwork and decorative patterns, giving the building a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other churches in Athens.

Once inside, you’ll be captivated by the church’s stunning frescoes and mosaics. The interior is adorned with intricate paintings that depict biblical scenes, saints, and the life of Jesus Christ. One of the most striking pieces is a fresco of Christ Pantocrator, an iconic representation of Jesus Christ in Christian art. These masterpieces date back to different periods in the church’s history, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of Byzantine Greece.

What’s even more fascinating is that the Church of the Holy Apostles is not only a historical and artistic treasure but also an active place of worship. Stepping inside, you’ll feel the sense of reverence and tranquillity that has filled this sacred space for over a millennium. Light a candle, say a prayer, or simply sit and absorb the peaceful atmosphere as you contemplate the incredible history that surrounds you.

In a city filled with world-renowned attractions like the Parthenon and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Church of the Holy Apostles offers a quieter, more intimate experience. Its unique architecture, ancient frescoes, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Athens.

When visiting the Church of the Holy Apostles, there are several top things you should make sure to see and experience. Here’s a list of my personal favourites:

Unique architecture

The church’s distinct “cross-in-square” architectural style is a highlight in itself. Take some time to appreciate the intricate brickwork, decorative patterns, central dome supported by four columns, and the four smaller surrounding domes.

Stunning frescoes and mosaics

The interior walls are adorned with beautiful frescoes and mosaics that depict biblical scenes, saints, and the life of Jesus Christ. Be sure to look for the striking Christ Pantocrator fresco, an iconic representation of Jesus Christ in Christian art.

The narthex

As you enter the church, you’ll pass through the narthex, a traditional entrance area in Byzantine churches. This space often contains religious artwork and serves as a place for worshippers to prepare themselves before entering the main sanctuary.

Iconostasis

Like many Orthodox churches, the Church of the Holy Apostles features an iconostasis, a wooden screen adorned with icons that separate the nave from the sanctuary. Take some time to admire the craftsmanship and the religious icons displayed on the screen.

The sanctuary

The sanctuary, or altar area, is the most sacred part of the church, typically accessible only to clergy. While you may not be able to enter this area, you can still appreciate its beauty and significance from a respectful distance.

Peaceful atmosphere

One of the most striking aspects of the Church of the Holy Apostles is its serene atmosphere. Take some time to soak in the quiet and tranquil environment, light a candle, say a prayer, or simply sit and reflect on the incredible history that surrounds you.

I wrote a blog post called Beware of Taking Photographs Inside Churches in Greece, explaining why photos in Greek Orthodox Churches are often frowned upon and not allowed. But the good news is that in the post, I provide you with some simple rules to follow, which will increase your chances of getting permission to take photos and stand a good chance of the priest pointing out the best places to take them.

Exterior shot with the domes

The Church of the Holy Apostles boasts a unique and beautiful exterior, making it an ideal photo backdrop. Stand at a distance where you can capture the central dome and the surrounding smaller domes in one frame. This will showcase the church’s distinct “cross-in-square” architectural style, with its intricate brickwork and patterns.

Frescoes and mosaic close-ups

When inside the church, don’t miss the opportunity to capture close-ups of the stunning frescoes and mosaics adorning the walls. Look for the striking Christ Pantocrator fresco and other intricate scenes depicting biblical stories or saints. These works of art make for beautiful, eye-catching Instagram posts.

Panoramic shot of the narthex

Capture the essence of the Church of the Holy Apostles by taking a panoramic shot of the narthex. This entrance area often contains religious artwork and is the gateway to the main sanctuary. By using the panorama feature on your mobile phone, you can showcase the grandeur and scale of this sacred space.

Iconostasis and candle lighting

The iconostasis, a wooden screen adorned with icons, is a central feature in Orthodox churches. Snap a photo of the iconostasis, and if you’re lighting a candle for a prayer or reflection, capture that moment too. This will give your followers a glimpse into the spiritual and serene atmosphere of the church.

Here are my top tips for visiting the Church of the Holy Apostles, based on my personal experiences and love for this incredible historical gem:

1. Plan ahead: Before visiting, research the church’s history, architecture, and the surrounding Ancient Agora. The more you know beforehand, the more you’ll appreciate the beauty and significance of this sacred site.
2. Dress appropriately: As the church is an active place of worship, dress modestly and respectfully. Opt for clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to show respect for the religious customs and traditions.
3. Be mindful of your surroundings: Remember that the Church of the Holy Apostles is not just a tourist attraction but a place where people come to pray and seek solace. Keep your voice low, avoid using flash photography, and be respectful of others who may be there for worship or reflection.
4. Take your time: Don’t rush through your visit. Instead, take the time to truly appreciate the unique architecture, stunning frescoes, and serene atmosphere. Light a candle, say a prayer, or simply sit and soak in the history and tranquillity of the church.
5. Capture the moment: Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the beauty of the church and its surroundings. Remember to be respectful when taking photos or videos, especially inside the church, and avoid using flash photography.

While the Church of the Holy Apostles is a historical site with immense cultural significance, it’s important to note that accessibility for those with disabilities and impairments might be limited. As an ancient building, it may not have all the modern facilities and adaptations you would find in newer constructions.

That being said, the church is located on relatively level ground within the Ancient Agora, which may be helpful for those using wheelchairs or mobility aids. However, the terrain in the Agora can be uneven, with cobblestones and steps in certain areas, so it’s essential to exercise caution and be prepared for a challenging experience.

The interior of the Church of the Holy Apostles is rather small, which might make it difficult for wheelchair users to navigate or access all parts of the church, especially if there are other visitors present. Moreover, there may be limited or no seating available for those who need to rest.

As for visitors with visual or hearing impairments, there might not be any specific aids, such as braille or audio guides, available to assist you during your visit. If you are traveling with a companion, they can help guide you through the church and describe the architectural details, frescoes, and mosaics.