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Holy Church of Saint Andrew: A Testament to Faith and Art

Discover the awe-inspiring Holy Church of Saint Andrew in Patras, a beacon of Greek Orthodox faith, art, and history, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.

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The Holy Church of Saint Andrew in Patras is a magnificent Greek Orthodox basilica dedicated to Saint Andrew, the patron saint of Greece. Completed in 1974, it stands as the largest church in the country and a major pilgrimage site, showcasing stunning Byzantine architecture, intricate mosaics, and sacred relics.

A brief summary to Holy Church of Saint Andrew

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning for a quieter experience and better lighting for photographs.
  • Dress modestly, as this is an active place of worship.
  • Take time to explore the surrounding neighborhood for local shops and cafes.
  • Check for any special events or religious services that may be taking place during your visit.
  • Don't miss the opportunity to admire the church's intricate mosaics up close.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the city center of Patras, the Holy Church of Saint Andrew is easily accessible on foot. Head west towards Agiou Andreou Street, a main thoroughfare. Continue along Agiou Andreou Street; the church will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes from Plateia Georgiou I (King George I Square).

  • Public Transport

    The urban buses of Patras (KTEL) cover the entire city. Multiple bus lines serve the area around the Holy Church of Saint Andrew. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. A standard ticket costs approximately €1.60.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Patras. You can hail a taxi from the street or book one through a local radio taxi company. A typical taxi ride from the city center to the Holy Church of Saint Andrew costs around €5-€7. Keep in mind that prices may vary based on the time of day and traffic conditions.

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Discover more about Holy Church of Saint Andrew

The Holy Church of Saint Andrew, also known as the Cathedral Church of Saint Andrew, is a prominent Greek Orthodox basilica located in Patras, Greece. It is dedicated to Saint Andrew the Apostle, the first-called of the Apostles of Christ. The church, along with the nearby Old Church of St. Andrew, is a significant pilgrimage destination for Christians worldwide. Construction of this impressive Byzantine-style church began in 1908, overseen by architect Anastasios Metaxas and later by Georgios Nomikos. The inauguration took place 66 years later, in 1974. The church's dimensions are grand, with a surface area of 1,900 square meters on the ground floor and an additional 700 square meters on the first level. It measures approximately 60 meters in length and 52 meters in width, accommodating up to 7,000 people. The central dome reaches a height of 46 meters and is adorned with a five-meter-long, gold-plated cross. Twelve smaller crosses embellish the other domes, symbolizing Jesus and his apostles. The church's interior is richly decorated with Byzantine-style wall paintings and mosaics. Relics of Saint Andrew are housed within the church, including a small finger, a piece of the Apostle's cranium, and fragments of the cross upon which he was martyred. These are preserved in a special shrine. The skull of Saint Andrew was returned to Patras from St. Peter's Basilica in Rome in 1964, under the direction of Pope Paul VI, marking a significant event in the church's history. Located next to the new Cathedral is the Old Church of St. Andrew, built between 1836 and 1843. Designed by Lysandros Kaftantzoglou, it stands on the site where Apostle Andrew is believed to have been martyred. Nearby, a water spring is said to be where Apostle Andrew left his last breath in 66 A.D. In ancient times, this spring was associated with a healing oracle dedicated to Demeter.

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