General information
| Destination | Category |
|---|
| Athens, Greece | Attractions/Entertainment |
Program details
Discover the superb variety of Byzantine churches and monuments situated throughout Athens on this fascinating tour. Visit four exquisite churches and learn all about the origins, significance and techniques involved in making an icon. This great dynasty left an impressive footprint on modern day Athens and your expert local guide will lead you through all of the most significant sites from the period.
After a brief introduction to the intricate styles of Byzantine iconography, you will head straight to the foot of the acropolis to the church of “Panagia Spiliotissa” (Madonna of the Cave). Constructed on the site of the ancient Dionysus’ Temple, the church is built into part of a cave and is full of stunning pictures and icons dating back centuries.
Proceed towards Plaka to visit the 11th century church of St. Nikolas Ragavas, which was part of the Ragava’s family palace. Beautifully designed to incorporate marble columns and other aspects of the original ancient structure, it was the first church in Greece to receive a bell after its war of independence and was the first bell to ring Greece’s liberation from Nazi Germany in 1944.
Your next stop will be outside the Cathedral of Athens, closed for restoration, where you will visit the small adjacent church of St. Eleftherios (12th century). It was built with marbles from ancient city temples and served as Athens Archbishops’ first seat.
The final visit will be at Kapnikarea’s church built between 11th and 13th century. Admire the frescos of the famous modern byzantine painter Kontoglou (18th century) after a successful restoration project before ending the tour at Ermou, one of the busiest pedestrian streets in Athens.
Meeting/pick-up point: To be locally arranged with the supplier.
Duration: Four hours.
Start/opening time: At 9am.
Languages: English, French, German and Italian.
Italiano