Background

Virgin Mary Pantanassa: An Oasis of Byzantine History in Monastiraki

Discover a serene Byzantine church in the heart of Athens' Monastiraki Square, a testament to the city's layered history and enduring faith.

4.7

Nestled in the heart of Athens' bustling Monastiraki Square, the Virgin Mary Pantanassa Church offers a serene escape into the city's rich Byzantine past. This small, three-aisled basilica, dating back to the early 17th century and built upon the remains of an older monument, stands as a testament to Athens' layered history and enduring faith.

A brief summary to Virgin Mary Pantanassa

Local tips

  • Visit during off-peak hours, such as lunchtime on weekdays, for a quieter and more personal experience.
  • Dress modestly when entering the church to respect local customs.
  • Take a moment to admire the intricate frescoes and portable icons inside the church.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the Monastiraki Flea Market and explore other nearby attractions.
  • Check locally for the most up-to-date visiting hours, as they can be inconsistent.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Syntagma Square, walk west along Ermou Street, a major pedestrian shopping street. Continue for approximately 1 kilometer until you reach Monastiraki Square. The church will be on your left-hand side in the square. This walk is direct and takes about 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Athens Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) to Monastiraki station. Upon exiting the station, you'll find yourself directly in Monastiraki Square. The Church of the Virgin Mary Pantanassa is located in the square, a short walk from the metro exit. A single metro ticket costs €1.40 and is valid for 90 minutes.

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in central Athens, you can take a taxi to Monastiraki Square. Most taxi drivers will know the location. The average taxi fare within the city center is around €8. Note that there is a base fare of €1.80, and a charge of €0.90/km during the day. Expect to pay slightly more at night (€1.25/km).

Unlock the Best of Virgin Mary Pantanassa

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Virgin Mary Pantanassa

The Church of the Virgin Mary Pantanassa, or Panagia Pantanassa, is a captivating historical and architectural landmark located in the vibrant Monastiraki Square in Athens. This time-worn, yet stunning, temple provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the deep-rooted traditions of Greek Orthodoxy. Once the central church ('catholicon') of a women's monastery connected to the Monastery of Kaisariani, the Pantanassa has witnessed centuries of Athenian life. A patriarchal record from 1678 identifies it as such, noting its donation by Nikolaos Bonefatzis. During this time, it was known as the 'Mega Monastiri' (Large Monastery). However, as the monastery declined, the name 'Monastiraki' (Little Monastery) began to prevail, eventually lending its name to the entire area by 1821. Architecturally, the church is a three-aisled basilica featuring a semi-circular vaulted central aisle, a design characteristic of Ottoman architecture that echoes the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople. The side aisles are distinguished by their cross-vaulted ceilings. Constructed with materials repurposed from ancient buildings, the church's walls whisper tales of Athens' long and varied past. Inside, more recent wall paintings and significant portable icons adorn the space. Renovations in 1890 and 1911, the latter led by architect Ioannis Kolliniatis, have contributed to the church's present-day form, including its current bell tower. Today, the church stands below the modern ground level, a consequence of the area's evolving urban landscape. Yet, it remains a spiritual haven amidst the lively square, inviting visitors to reflect on its history and admire its enduring beauty. The church celebrates its feast day on August 15th.

Popular Experiences near Virgin Mary Pantanassa

Popular Hotels near Virgin Mary Pantanassa

Select Currency