“A reference point” is how many Athenians describe Agios Georgios Karytsis. The church stands in the historical center of Athens. It is behind the busy Stadiou Street.
Welcome to Agios Georgios Karytsis. This medieval church is a testament to Athens’ resilience. It is surrounded by buildings linked to the city’s intellectual and artistic heart.
Agios Georgios Karytsis was founded in the 11th century. It belonged to the Karytsis family, a well-known Athenian family. The church suffered greatly during the Greek Revolution in 1821. By the revolution’s end, it was almost ruined. Despite its condition, it remained in use.
Important events took place within these walls. Athenians gathered here to choose the delegation. The delegation greeted King Othon upon his arrival in Nafplion.
The church’s poor state prompted action. Parishioners commissioned architect Lysandros Kaftantzoglou. He had previously reconstructed Agia Eirini church. Reconstruction of Agios Georgios Karytsis took place between 1845 and 1849. The style is less Byzantine. It has fewer western influences than Kaftantzoglou’s other churches.
Agios Georgios Karytsis follows the style of a three-aisle basilica topped with a dome. The central gate made of grey marble is striking. It is crowned by a white steeple. Materials from an ancient and Byzantine cemetery were used. These were found in the area during construction.
Part of the dome collapsed in 1849. Supports were added to the side walls. The magnificent screen was created in 1895. The archieratic throne followed in 1901. Both are the work of wood-carver Ioannis Magiasis.
Notable painters contributed to the church’s wall paintings. Polychronis Lembesis and Dimos Georgantas added their skill. Dimitrios Pelekasis also contributed. Alexander Philadelpheus created the oil painting “Parable of the Blind”. It is on the northern wall near the sanctuary. He was a renowned archaeologist. He also directed important museums.
Saint George was a Roman soldier. He was killed for his Christian faith under Emperor Diocletian. The Orthodox Church remembers George on April 23. Tradition says George was born to a Christian family in the late 3rd century. His father, from Cappadocia, served in the army. His mother was from Palestine.
After George’s father was martyred, his mother returned to her city. She raised her son in piety. George followed his father into the army. He quickly rose through the ranks. By his late twenties, he was a tribune and then a count.
George was stationed in Nicomedia. He served as a member of Emperor Diocletian’s personal guard. George confessed his Christian faith. He criticized the emperor’s persecution of Christians. An enraged Diocletian ordered George’s torture and execution. George was beheaded on April 23, 303. His body was returned to Lydda for burial. Christians honored George as a martyr.
Agios Georgios Karytsis stands as a symbol of faith. It also embodies artistic collaboration. Take a moment to appreciate its history. Consider the stories within its walls.