Panagia Drosiani, Byzantine church in Naxos, Greece
Panagia Drosiani is a Byzantine church on the island of Naxos, located in the center of the island near the village of Moni. The building consists of four connected parts built in different periods, with the oldest section dating from the 6th century and featuring a three-conch choir and a dome over the altar.
The oldest part of the church was built in the 6th century, and the building was later expanded with additional chapels. In 1555, the last Frankish duke of Naxos granted the monastery to the Greek Orthodox Church, and in the 1970s, excavations revealed the full complex.
The name Drosiani likely comes from a time of drought when locals prayed to the Virgin for rain to save their trees and gardens. Inside, you can see a large circular marble slab in front of the icon of the Virgin, which according to legend covered a treasure.
The church is open to visitors, but it is a good idea to check the opening hours in advance, as they can vary. Inside, you can walk through the different sections, but taking photos is not allowed.
The church has two representations of Christ as Pantocrator in the dome, one with a short beard and one with a long beard, which is linked to efforts to counter monophysitism. The original icon of the Virgin was stolen, and it is unknown whether the one now in its place is the authentic one or a copy.
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