Saint Athanasius of Mouzakis Church, Byzantine church in Kastoria, Greece.
Saint Athanasius of Mouzakis Church is a Byzantine church in Kastoria featuring traditional Byzantine architecture with elaborate interior frescoes. The walls are covered with depictions of saints, religious scenes, and Jesus Christ and Mary wearing imperial costumes.
The church was built in 1383-1384 by brothers Teodor II Muzaka and Stoya Muzaka as the final church constructed before Ottoman forces took control of Kastoria. This construction marked the end of one era and the beginning of another for the region.
The interior paintings show military saints and notable depictions of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary wearing imperial costumes, reflecting how religious and worldly power were intertwined in medieval times. These images help you understand what mattered most to the people who built and visited this place.
Access follows specific visiting schedules, and you should dress appropriately when entering the sanctuary. If you plan to take photographs inside, check with local authorities about any required permissions beforehand.
One fresco depicts Saint George wearing a distinctive cloak decorated with a double-headed eagle, a symbol resembling Emperor John V Palaiologos's imperial emblem. This unusual detail reveals how local artists incorporated imperial symbols into religious works.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
