Church of Saint Irene of Athens
Church of Saint Irene of Athens, Orthodox church in central Athens, Greece
The Church of Saint Irene is a three-aisled basilica in central Athens with two neoclassical bell towers and a central dome. The building contains an ornately decorated iconostasis and wooden interior elements that reflect the architectural choices of its time.
The church was completed in 1850 after architect Lysandros Kaftantzoglou rebuilt it on the site of a medieval structure destroyed in 1821. The reconstruction was part of efforts to reshape Athens following independence.
The church served as the main spiritual center for the Orthodox community during Greece's early independence in the 1800s. Visitors encounter a space deeply connected to the faith and religious identity that shaped modern Athens.
The church is located on Aeolou Street in downtown Athens and welcomes visitors during its opening hours throughout the year. Guests should dress respectfully and be mindful of worship services when planning a visit.
The interior features a gilded iconostasis that was presented as a gift from Nicholas of Russia in 1850, reflecting ties between Russian and Greek Orthodox traditions. This decorated wooden element remains one of the most valuable features visitors encounter inside.
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