Church of Saint Porphyrius, Greek Orthodox church in Zaytun Quarter, Gaza City, Palestine
The Church of Saint Porphyrius is a Greek Orthodox house of worship in Gaza City with a rectangular floor plan and simple construction. Its interior features a single nave divided by two vaulted bays, and the main entrance is marked by a portico supported by marble columns.
The present church was built around 1150–1160 under Crusader rule and dedicated to Saint Porphyrius; in the 15th century it was also called a church of Mary. Its floor lies 1.8 to 3 metres below street level, pointing to an earlier Byzantine church on the site. A restoration in 1856 is recorded in the Greek and Arabic inscription above the west door.
The church is named after Bishop Porphyrios of Gaza, who died in 420 and is venerated as a saint; his tomb lies in the northeastern corner. The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem owns the church, and the compound also holds a library and a youth centre.
The building is easily accessible through three separate entrance points, with the main portal standing out thanks to its columned portico. Keep in mind that this is an active place of worship, so plan your visit with respect for any services or gatherings taking place.
Porphyrius was bishop of Gaza, not a martyr; he died in 420 and is venerated as a saint. His tomb slab lies in the church's northeastern corner. The 1856 restoration inscription above the west door credits Patriarch Cyril of Jerusalem and the Greek community of Gaza with funding the work.
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