“Panagia Who Grants Requests Quickly.” Isn’t that a beautiful name? We’re standing before the Little Metropolis, formally known as the Church of St. Eleftherios. However, most know it as Panagia Gorgoepikoos. This Byzantine church sits right next to the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens. That is why it is dubbed the “Little Metropolis”.
The Little Metropolis is more than just a pretty building. Its history is layered like the stones that form its walls. Speaking of stones, look closely. Notice anything unusual? The Little Metropolis is built almost entirely of reused materials. These spolia come from older buildings. They range from Classical Antiquity to the 12th or 13th centuries. This makes the Little Metropolis truly unique.
Some believe Empress Irene of Athens founded the church in the 9th century. Others suggest it was built in the 13th century. Recent research suggests it was built after 1436. This may be connected to the Turkish takeover of the city’s old cathedral. That cathedral was the Theotokos Atheniotissa in the Parthenon. The Turks converted it into a mosque.
Originally, the church was dedicated to Panagia Gorgoepikoos. This was after a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary. After the Greek War of Independence, it was abandoned. In 1841, it became Athens’ public library. It served as a library until 1863. Then, it was re-dedicated as a church. It was first dedicated to Christ the Saviour and then to Saint Eleutherios.
Take a look at the church’s layout. It follows a typical Byzantine cross-in-square design. The Little Metropolis is small. It is only 7.6 meters long and 12.2 meters wide. The walls showcase ninety sculptures. These are above the windows. This feature sets it apart from other Byzantine churches.
Inside, frescoes once adorned the walls. Only one remains today. It is an image of the Panagia over the entrance apse. It dates back to the 13th century. The church celebrates on December 15th. The Little Metropolis stands as a testament to Athens’ long and varied past. It blends ancient and Byzantine elements. Its walls whisper stories of empires, wars, and faith.