Doubtless, you have noticed the striking architecture before us. This is the church of Agios Konstantinos. It stands proudly near Omonia Square. It is opposite the National Theatre. Agios Konstantinos is one of the most significant churches in Athens.
Let’s delve into the story of Agios Konstantinos. Its construction began in an era of transformation. Little Athens was evolving into a European capital. The Municipality of Athens initiated the project in 1869. This was in honor of Prince Constantine’s birth. He was the heir to the throne.
Lysandros Kaftantzoglou, a renowned architect, designed the church. He aimed to introduce European influences to Greek church architecture. The foundation stone was laid in 1871. However, the church was not completed until 1905. The Metropolitan of Athens, Theoclitos I, inaugurated it.
Funding came from global fund raises. Queen Olga, Constantine’s mother, contributed significantly. Her support aided the interior decoration. It also helped complete additional works.
Agios Konstantinos exemplifies a three-aisled basilica. It is characterized by its neo-classical style. Pentelian marble was used extensively. The facade is impressive. It showcases neo-classical and Renaissance elements. The monumental entrance features Corinthian columns. They are reminiscent of an ancient propylon.
The church comprises three distinct sections. The central aisle honors Constantine and Helen. The church recognizes them as equal to the Apostles. The Municipality of Athens made this dedication. The northern aisle is dedicated to Agios Eleftherios. Its inauguration occurred on December 15th. The southern aisle is for Ioannis Prodromos. A small church of Ioannis Prodromos once stood here. A marble screen marks its former altar site. It is at the intersection of Agios Konstantinos and Menandrou streets.
Solid Pentelian marble was used throughout the construction. The church spans over 1,000 square meters. Its height reaches 32 meters from floor to dome. It is a three-aisled domed basilica. The structure includes a transept. Neoclassical elements and Renaissance influences define it.
The facade is of special artistic importance. It resembles a portico. Piers and demi-columns of the Corinthian order adorn it. A pedimental finial completes the design. Towers frame the church on both sides. They culminate in octagonal-shaped bell towers. Copper sheets cover the dome externally. Inside, Anastasios Loukidis’s Pantokrator figure dominates. Twelve symbolic light-holes illuminate it. The Pantheon in Rome and Hagia Sophia in Constantinople inspired the dome’s construction.
Loukidis started crafting the icon painting in 1927. He created the works in the sanctuary and dome. Malamas and Giomelakis continued mural painting. They worked from 1953 and 1972 until 1980.
The elaborate marble templon showcases unique icon painting art. The holy altar looms within the holy bema. Agios Konstantinos is a tri-substantial church. The central nave is dedicated to Saint Constantine and Saint Helen. The northern aisle honors Saint Eleftherios. The southern aisle is for Saint John the Baptist.
Agios Konstantinos stands as a testament to Athens’s evolving identity. It blends European influences with Greek tradition. Its stunning architecture and rich history make it a must-see. As you leave, remember the dedication and artistry. They shaped this magnificent church.