Background

Holy Church of Saint Irene: A Testament to Athenian History

Discover the Holy Church of Saint Irene in Athens: a historic landmark blending Byzantine & Neoclassical architecture in the city's heart.

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The Holy Church of Saint Irene, nestled in the heart of Athens, is a historic Greek Orthodox church dating back to the 7th century. Rebuilt in the 19th century, it served as Athens' first cathedral and showcases a unique blend of Byzantine and Neoclassical architectural styles.

A brief summary to Holy Church of Saint Irene

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning for a quieter experience and to appreciate the serene ambiance.
  • Check for special services or events that may enhance your visit.
  • Dress appropriately, as this is a place of worship.
  • Take your time to admire the intricate details of the iconography inside the church.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Syntagma Square, walk along Ermou Street towards Monastiraki. Turn right onto Aiolou Street. Continue walking for a few minutes; the Holy Church of Saint Irene will be on your left at Aiolou 36. This is a straightforward, approximately 10-15 minute walk. There are no costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Take Metro Line 1 (Green Line) or Line 3 (Blue Line) to Monastiraki station. Exit the station and walk towards Aiolou Street, about a 10-minute walk. Follow Aiolou Street, and the Holy Church of Saint Irene will be on your right. A single metro ticket costs €1.40 and is valid for 90 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Athens. Provide the address 'Aiolou 36, Athina 105 60' to the driver. From Syntagma Square, expect to pay between €5 and €15 depending on traffic and time of day. Ensure the meter is set to the base fare of €1.80.

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Discover more about Holy Church of Saint Irene

The Holy Church of Saint Irene, located on Aiolou Street in Athens, is a significant landmark with a rich history. Built on the site of an older medieval church, it stands as a testament to the city's enduring religious and architectural heritage. The church is dedicated to Saint Irene, venerated on May 5th, and holds a special place in the hearts of Athenians. Originally built in the 7th century, the church has undergone several transformations throughout its history. It suffered damages during the revolution of 1821 but was repaired in 1834-1835, becoming the most important temple of the new capital and hosting official religious ceremonies. In 1846, architect Lysandros Kaftantzoglou was entrusted with its reconstruction to meet growing demands, with the inauguration taking place in 1850. The interior decoration was completed between 1879 and 1892, featuring illustrations by iconographer Spyridon Hatzigiannopoulos, considered his most important work. The Holy Church of Saint Irene served as the metropolis of the new Greek state in the early years of independence in the 19th century. It was the official cathedral of the new capital when the seat of the kingdom was transferred to Athens in 1832. The church is associated with important moments in the modern history of Athens, including the election of the mayor and King Otto's coming-of-age celebration. Today, the Holy Church of Saint Irene is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the bustling city, surrounded by narrow streets, historic buildings, and lush greenery.

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