The Church of Panagia Kapnikarea (Greek: Εκκλησία της Παναγίας Καπνικαρέας) or just Kapnikarea (Greek: Καπνικαρέα) is a Greek Orthodox church and one of the oldest churches in Athens.
It is estimated that the church was built some time in the 11th century, perhaps around 1050. As it was common with the early Christian churches, this was built over an ancient Greek temple dedicated to the worship of a goddess, possibly Athena or Demeter. When King Otto I, King of the Kingdom of Greece, brought the Bavarian architect Leo von Klenze to draw the new city plan of Athens, the church was considered for demolition and it was the King of Bavaria, Ludwig I who objected the decision and saved the church.
Milo Cridge | Dec 21, 2017
Pretty church in the middle of the city. There are so many of these dotted around though.
Catarina Bouça | Feb 1, 2018
Very beautiful old church. Interesting architecture and design.
Andrew David Boyle | Nov 13, 2017
For a thousand years people have been praying in here. Before that it was a temple dedicated to Goddess worship...it is a very blessed place, with a very beautiful and peaceful vibe once you settle down.
Slav Gatchev | Aug 19, 2017
A beautiful, small and ancient church. Walk in, light a candle (anyone can do that) and sit in the hushed, dark space contemplating the Byzantine frescoes. A respite from the crowds and bustle of the central Athens.
Franco Pecchio | Aug 21, 2017
The church is old, XII century but renovated at the beginning of XIX century with paintings. Thus better outside than inside
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