“Christ the Savior” is what Agios Sostis means in English. Agios Sostis Church is a special Christian temple. It stands in the Neos Kosmos neighborhood. Its foundation stone tells a story of gratitude. It marks the miraculous rescue of King George I of Greece.
Let’s turn back to February 14, 1898. King George and his daughter Princess Marie were in a carriage. They were returning from a trip to Phaleron Bay. Suddenly two armed men appeared. They fired at the carriage from a roadside ditch. The coachman sped up the horses. Then a youth aimed at the King. The King shielded his daughter. Luckily the youth missed due to shaking hands.
King George showed courage that day. He recounted the event with self-possession. However, he wasn’t so lucky later. He was assassinated in Salonika in 1913.
Agios Sostis has an interesting history beyond this event. The church was built for the Exposition Universelle de 1900. This world’s fair was held in Paris. Each country had a pavilion showing a unique monument. Lucien Magne, a French architect, designed Greece’s pavilion. It resembled a Byzantine church. Modern materials were used. The frame was wrought iron. The walls were pink bricks with turquoise ceramic rows. A timber ceiling dome sat on cast-iron columns.
After the exposition, most pavilions were torn down. But some were moved. The Greek pavilion was shipped to Athens. Mayor Spyros Mercouris arranged this. The city decided to rebuild it as Agios Sostis. It would stand where the assassination attempt occurred.
Agios Sostis honors King George’s bravery. The church is easily reached by Metro. Just get off at Syggrou-Fix Station.
King George’s popularity had its ups and downs. After overthrowing King Otto I, Greece chose Prince William of Denmark as their new king. As King George I, he saw growth in the country. This boosted the monarchy’s popularity. But the Greco-Turkish War of 1897 changed things. Greece’s defeat made George unpopular.
The assassination attempt changed public opinion. George shielded his daughter. This bravery led to Agios Sostis’ construction. Mercouri arranged for the church’s return from Paris. It was reassembled on a stone foundation.
The church is octagonal. It features a crossed dome with pink and blue tiles. Wrought iron arches support doorways and windows. The name Agios Sostis celebrates the “saved” king and princess.
If you plan to visit Agios Sostis note a few things. It opens sometimes during the week. Liturgy is held every Sunday. Annual feasts take place on August 6 and September 7.
Also remember to dress respectfully. This means modest clothing. Men should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts. Women should cover their shoulders. Skirts should be below the knee. Also avoid pointing your feet at holy images when seated.