Background

Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation

Athens' principal Greek Orthodox church, a blend of Greco-Byzantine and neoclassical architecture in the heart of the city.

4.7

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens, also known as the Metropolis, is a landmark 19th-century cathedral that serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Athens and All Greece. Constructed with marble from demolished Byzantine churches, it showcases a blend of Greco-Byzantine and neoclassical architectural styles.

A brief summary to Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting; avoid exposed knees and shoulders.
  • Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
  • Explore the adjacent Church of Agios Eleftherios, a small Byzantine church.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Syntagma Square, walk southwest on Mitropoleos Street. The Cathedral will be on your right. From Monastiraki Square, walk northeast on Ermou Street, then turn right onto Mitropoleos Street. The Cathedral will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Athens Metro to either Syntagma (Line 2 or 3) or Monastiraki (Line 1 or 3) stations. From Syntagma, walk southwest on Mitropoleos Street. From Monastiraki, walk northeast on Ermou Street, then turn right onto Mitropoleos Street. A single metro ticket costs €1.20 and is valid for 90 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Athens. Ask the driver to take you to the Metropolitan Cathedral on Mitropoleos Street. A typical taxi ride within the city center costs around €8, with a base fare of €1.80 plus €0.90/km during the day.

Unlock the Best of Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary

The Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary, often called the Metropolis, is the primary cathedral of the Greek Orthodox Church in Athens. Construction began in 1842 and concluded in 1862, marking it as one of the city's important modern historical landmarks. The cathedral is dedicated to the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary. The cathedral's architecture is a blend of Greco-Byzantine and neoclassical styles. The walls were built using marble salvaged from 72 demolished Byzantine churches. Inside, visitors can find the tombs of Saint Philothei, honored for her work in freeing Greek women enslaved during the Ottoman Empire, and Patriarch Gregory V, who was executed for his involvement in the Greek War of Independence. The interior features impressive frescoes, mosaics, and sculptures. Located in the heart of Athens, the Metropolis has been the site of many significant events, including royal christenings, weddings, and funerals. Adjacent to the cathedral is the small 12th-century Church of Agios Eleftherios, also known as the Little Metropolis, creating a striking contrast in architectural styles. A museum in the basement displays religious relics and treasures.

Popular Experiences near Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary

Popular Hotels near Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary

Select Currency