Suddenly you see two octagonal belfries. This is the Church of Agios Konstantinos and Agia Eleni. It stands imposingly between Omonia and Metaxourgio. Many regard it as one of Athens most impressive ecclesiastical buildings.
Originally the church celebrated Prince Constantinos birth. He was the son of King George and Queen Olga in 1868. Construction started in 1871. It finished in 1905. Lyssandros Kaftantzoglou was the architect. He had also restored the church of Agia Irini. Kaftantzoglou designed a three-aisled basilica. It features an elegant dome. The dome has aristocratic blue copper leaves.
Notably the temple shows eclectic neoclassical and renaissance elements. Anastasios Loukidis and Fotis Kontoglou created the elaborate frescoes.
The Church of Agios Konstantinos and Agia Eleni suffered damage in the earthquakes of 1981 and 1991. Restoration took over 15 years. Now experts have diligently returned the impressive temple to its former glory. It remains a vital part of Athens modern history.
Interestingly the Church of Agios Konstantinos and Agia Eleni is tripartite. The central nave honors Saints Constantine and Helen. The northern nave is for Saint Eleftherios. Its inauguration occurred on his feast day December 15th. The southern nave venerates John the Baptist. A small church dedicated to him once stood here.
Today the Church of Agios Konstantinos and Agia Eleni stands as a testament. It is a testament to faith artistic vision and historical resilience. Its walls echo with prayers. They also echo with the stories of Athens past. Take a moment to appreciate its beauty. Reflect on its enduring legacy. It is a legacy that connects us to centuries of Athenian history.