Paros, Greece
Prompona 18
N/A
+302284021243
If you are on the island, you must see this. Classic Greek temple elements included in Byzantine Church. Very scenic inside.
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As a church enthusiast with a lot of experience in Byzantine architecture, I didn't expect to ever be as utterly blown away by a church again as I was when I stepped through the gates of Panagia Ekatondapiliani. Translated as Most Holy of a Hundred Gates, Ekatondapiliani is by far the most gorgeous temple in all of the Cyclades. One can easily see the unique stone masonry from outside, while walking through the outside courtyard decorated by the ancient ruins and the Byzantine remnants. But stepping through the church's entrance is another thing entirely. Inside the temple, one will be quick to notice the lack of frescos and wall art. The walls are instead beautiful stone masonry, minimalistic and humble. There are many halls in this temple, many of which are ancient and others more recent. The temple was constructed on an ancient gymnasium, much of which remains there today, in the form of repurposed columns, walls and art. The blend of Classical and Byzantine Roman architecture is unique and mesmerizing. The church complex has the main church as well as a multitude of smaller shrines and a Byzantine baptistry. The main temple is a direct replica of Haghia Sophia of Constantinople, though that was not always the case. The first church was constructed by empress Eirini, dedicated to Panagia, the virgin Mary, to show her gratitude for a successful pilgrimage to the Holy Lands. Years later, after an earthquake destroyed the church, it was reconstructed in the form of Haghia Sophia. The local Neokoros was very helpful and accommodating, giving me a tour throughout the church. I was also able to get a view from the female-dedicated space of the temple. The church is located in a very central square of Parikia, and is open almost all day. It also has a souvenir shop and many events are held there. To everyone visiting Paros, and other church enthusiasts, I recommend visiting this place at least once.
Very beautiful old church my friends had wedding there. Amazing place!
A massive, and insanely historical monument to Christianity that dates back to the 4th century AD built by the first Byzantine Emperor. Most of the church has been rebuilt and rebuilt, added without intruding to the former structures and you can see the weight and age of the years in the stone structures. Even if you're not a Christian, you should visit this church and take in the fact that millions of people in the past 1600 years have attended this church, walked the steps and lived and died there.
All the marble and rocks! Just go inside and admire the beauty!
Nice Byzantine church. Quite large, and different from most I've seen on the Cyclades
You feel the history on every stone of this ancient building complex...travel in history and time
Emaizing place where you can feel history.
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