Panagia Dexia, Thessaloniki, Greek Orthodox church near Arch of Galerius, Thessaloniki, Greece
Panagia Dexia is a church in Thessaloniki that combines traditional Byzantine architectural elements with neoclassical features and has several interior domes. Decorated walls with religious paintings and Orthodox icons fill the inside with color and sacred imagery.
The church was completed in 1956 during a period of religious rebuilding in northern Greece after the Second World War. Its construction was part of a broader effort to restore and build places of worship across the region.
The painted walls and icons inside show how the Virgin Mary is venerated in Greek Orthodox tradition and guide people in their daily prayers. Visitors observe locals lighting candles and spending quiet moments in front of these sacred images.
The church opens early in the morning and closes in the evening, allowing visitors to stop by during their own schedule. Dress respectfully by avoiding shorts and sleeveless shirts to show consideration for the sacred space.
The name comes from a special feature of the main icon where the Virgin Mary holds the Christ Child on her right side. This differs from the more common religious imagery where the child typically appears on the left.
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