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Church of St. John Aliturgetos: An Unconsecrated Marvel

Explore the medieval allure of the Church of St. John Aliturgetos in Nessebar, a captivating blend of Byzantine and Bulgarian architectural styles.

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The Church of St. John Aliturgetos in Nessebar, Bulgaria, is a 14th-century architectural gem. Its name, meaning 'unconsecrated,' stems from a legend about a builder's death during construction. The church showcases a unique blend of Byzantine and Bulgarian styles, featuring intricate facades adorned with stone, brick, and ceramic elements.

A brief summary to Church of St John Aliturgetos

  • ul. Ribarska 117, Nessebar, Staria Grad, 8231, BG
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Take your camera to capture the intricate details of the church's exterior and the surrounding scenery.
  • Combine your visit with a walk through the old town of Nessebar to fully appreciate its historical significance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Church of St. John Aliturgetos is located in the heart of Old Nessebar. From most points within the old town, it's easily accessible on foot via the cobblestone streets. Follow signs towards the center of the old town or the sea, as the church is situated near the coast. Note that the ground can be uneven, so wear comfortable shoes.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving from Sunny Beach or other nearby locations, take a local bus to Old Nessebar. Buses #1, #4, #5, and #8 are common routes. From the bus stop in Old Nessebar, walk towards the old town center; the church is approximately a 5-10 minute walk. A single bus ticket costs around 4 BGN.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Sunny Beach and Nessebar. A taxi ride from Sunny Beach to Old Nessebar will cost approximately 20-30 BGN, depending on the distance and traffic. From the taxi drop-off point at the entrance of the old town, it's a short walk to the church.

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Discover more about Church of St John Aliturgetos

Located in the ancient town of Nessebar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Church of St. John Aliturgetos stands as a remarkable example of medieval Bulgarian architecture. Constructed in the 14th century, its name, 'Aliturgetos,' meaning 'not consecrated' in Greek, is attributed to a legend that a worker died during its construction, thus preventing its sanctification. Despite this, some records suggest services were held here. The church's architecture is a captivating blend of Byzantine and Bulgarian styles, characterized by its cross-in-square plan. Measuring 18.5 meters in length and 10 meters in width, the structure features a spacious nave and a square naos supported by four columns. These columns once upheld a high, narrow dome. The exterior is particularly striking, with facades showcasing an exquisite interplay of white stone blocks and red bricks, interspersed with ceramic elements to create intricate patterns. The eastern facade, with its three elegantly segmented apses adorned with slender niches and graceful arches, is a masterpiece of design. The church suffered significant damage during the 1913 earthquake, leaving it partially in ruins. Nevertheless, its remaining structure reflects the artistic and cultural achievements of medieval Bulgaria. The church has two entrances, from the north and south, which is rare in the architecture of church buildings. Exploring the cobblestone streets surrounding the church adds to the charm, with opportunities to discover shops and cafes.

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