“Holy Light is here!” The air crackles with anticipation each year as the Holy Light arrives from Jerusalem. This marks the beginning of the Resurrection celebration at the \u039c\u0395\u03a4\u039f\u03a7\u0399 \u03a0\u0391\u039d\u0391\u0393\u0399\u039f\u03a5 \u03a4\u0391\u03a6\u039f\u03a5.
We stand before the Agioi Anargyroi, better known as the \u039c\u0395\u03a4\u039f\u03a7\u0399 \u03a0\u0391\u039d\u0391\u0393\u0399\u039f\u03a5 \u03a4\u0391\u03a6\u039f\u03a5. It is the Exarchate of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. This serene spot in Plaka is more than just a pretty picture. It connects Athens to the most sacred event in the Orthodox Christian calendar.
This church’s history stretches back to the 17th century. Before that, this location housed a temple dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite. In 1651, Dimitrios Kolokinthis, a priest from a prominent Athenian family, founded a monastery here. He even gave his entire fortune to support it. Initially a women’s convent, it later became a men’s monastery.
The monastery faced turbulent times. In 1687, Italian admiral Morosini besieged the Acropolis. As a result, the monks abandoned the monastery. In 1760, Archimandrite Iakovos, the Exarch of the Holy Sepulcher in Athens, purchased it. It then became a Metohi of the Holy Sepulcher. From then until 1858, the exarch resided in its cells. After that, a separate seat of the exarchate was constructed.
Inside the church of Agioi Anargyroi \u039c\u0395\u03a4\u039f\u03a7\u0399 \u03a0\u0391\u039d\u0391\u0393\u0399\u039f\u03a5 \u03a4\u0391\u03a6\u039f\u03a5, you’ll find a one-aisle vaulted basilica. There is also a porch. A gynaeconitis sits at the gallery. A white marble steeple with classicist elements rises from the northern side of the roof.
Look closely at the walls of \u039c\u0395\u03a4\u039f\u03a7\u0399 \u03a0\u0391\u039d\u0391\u0393\u0399\u039f\u03a5 \u03a4\u0391\u03a6\u039f\u03a5. Ancient architectural elements have been incorporated into the building. The yard displays relics that testify to the area’s long history. Preserved within the area are cells of the old monastery, a well and an old municipal gas lamp.
If you happen to be in Athens during Orthodox Easter, don’t miss the Epitaph procession on Good Friday. The devout atmosphere in Plaka’s narrow streets is unforgettable.
\u039c\u0395\u03a4\u039f\u03a7\u0399 \u03a0\u0391\u039d\u0391\u0393\u0399\u039f\u03a5 \u03a4\u0391\u03a6\u039f\u03a5 stands as a testament to Athens’ enduring connection to faith. It embodies history and tradition. Each Easter, it is a beacon of hope and renewal. As we leave this sacred place, remember the light that shines from Jerusalem. Carry its message of hope with you always.