High on the Hill of the Nymphs, I. N. Agia Marina Church stands watch. It overlooks the bustling city of Athens. Have you ever seen a church built on top of an ancient water cistern? I. N. Agia Marina rests on just such a spot. The original church, a small cave-like structure from the 13th century, is incorporated into the southeastern corner of the current building. It serves as the baptistery today. I. N. Agia Marina is a fascinating blend of old and new. The newer church, constructed between 1924 and 1927, was designed by architect Achilleas Georgiadis. It’s an inscribed cross-in-square church. A large central dome and four smaller corner domes crown the structure. Inside, vibrant wall paintings by well-known artists adorn the walls, showcasing a rare European influence. The impressive screen was designed by architect Georgios Nomikos. The older, 13th-century church, built directly into the rock, reveals layers of history. Six layers of wall paintings, dating from the 13th, 17th, and 18th centuries, have been discovered. Some of the oldest frescoes, depicting the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus, surrounded by angels and hierarchs, are still visible. One particularly well-preserved painting is of Basil the Great. His expressive face and richly decorated clothing stand out. In a specially designated area within I. N. Agia Marina, you can see fragments of these wall paintings. Relics and icons from the 13th to the 18th century are also on display. I. N. Agia Marina is more than just a church. It is a place of pilgrimage, especially for pregnant women and mothers praying for safe childbirth and the health of their children. St. Marina is considered a protector of children. The church celebrates her feast day on July 17th.
Municipality of Zografos
Seven thousand inhabitants. That’s how many people called Zografou home a century ago. Can you imagine the quiet hills then?