Several Byzantine churches, built between the 11th and 12th centuries AD, are scattered around the city. We think the following are worth seeing from the inside as well as the outside:
Panagia Gorgoepikoos. The humble Byzantine church standing beside the large Metropolis Cathedral has a much longer history than its majestic neighbor. It was built in the 12th century on the ruins of an ancient temple. The temple and other ancient buildings served as a source of building material when the church was constructed. This explains why the walls incorporate many marble murals, such as the one from the fourth century BC showing the signs of the zodiac. Mitropoleos Square (at the junction of Mitropoleos and Agias Filotheis streets), Plaka.
Agias Triadas. This church on Filellinon Street was constructed in 1031 and, after being destroyed, was rebuilt in 1835. Since 1852, it has been operating as a Russian Orthodox church. Monday-Friday 8 am-noon, Saturday 4-8 pm, Sunday 7 am-noon. 21 Filellinon St., near Syntagma Square. Phone 210-323-1090.
Kapnikarea. Located halfway down Ermou Street from Syntagma Square.
Agii Apostoli. In the Agora area south of Stoa of Attalos.
Agii Theodori. On the Dragatsaniou Street side of Klathmonos Square on Stadiou Street. Churches are open to the public when services are being held and a few hours afterward, on Sunday and holidays. Also open for daily prayers 7 am-1 pm and 4-6:30 pm (depending on the whim of the parish priest).
