At the intersection of Eolu and Athinas roads, on Monastiraki square, in one of the most renowned spots in the downtown area, the breathtaking Agia Irini Chrysovalantou Church stands. This is an impressive basilica with a big dome and two bell towers.
During the turkish rule, the stately Agia Irini Church was constructed and served as a significant meeting point for christians in those troubled times. Reports claim that the building was constructed using materials from the wreckage of more than 70 past byzantine churches as well as bits of the ancient ruins of acropolis hill.
In 1821, after the liberation of Greece and the commencement of the modern greek state, the capital was moved from Nafplio to Athens, making the Agia Irini Church the primary religious centre of the new city. Lissandros Kaftatsoglou was appointed in 1846 to upgrade the edifice, and the renovation was completed four years later. Kaftatsoglou blended neoclassical, roman, and byzantine features to give the temple a unique style. Subsequently, in 1892, the complex interior illustrations were finalized.
Declared a monument of special interest by the ministry of culture in 1972, the Agia Irini Church was restored by the department of byzantine antiquities in 1995.
Though not quite big to be a principal church of the city, it is still a jewel of byzantine architecture. It features a three-column narthex, a balcony and a double nave in front of a closed altar. Visiting this church is certainly worth it!
It’s a must to take a look at two extensive frescoes in the nave that depict Paul’s speech in the Areopagus and Jesus' proclamation in Jerusalem.
To get to Agia Irini Church from anywhere in Athens is quite easy, since it’s situated in the center of the city, close to Monastiraki square. The metro is the best option. It takes only five minutes to reach the church from «Monastiraki» station (the green-blue branch), and ten minutes from «Syntagmas» (red-blue branches).
To get to the Сhurch, the nearest bus stop is Monastiraki. Bus routes 025, 026, 027 all terminate here. Once you have arrived, take a left turn at the first intersection and go on for one block — you will then be at your destination. Another stop close by is Boreu. The buses that stop here are 025, 026, 027, 035, 227, 500. To get to the Church, take a few steps back from the stop to Agia Irini street and proceed for two blocks, and you will be there!
No pictures should be taken within the holy walls of the church. Taking photos is off-limits and must not be done.
