Saint George Karytsis

Hidden in plain sight, the Church of Saint George Karytsis whispers tales of resilience. Right here in Karytsi Square, amidst the bustling city of Athens, stands this elegant church. Saint George Karytsis isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a landmark, a testament to Athens’ rich history and vibrant cultural life. The original structure dates back to the 11th century. It was built by the influential Karytsis or Karykis family, hence the name Saint George Karytsis. The church witnessed the Greek Revolution of 1821, suffering extensive damage. Yet, Saint George Karytsis persevered. It even served as the meeting place where Athenians chose their delegation to greet King Otto’s arrival in Nafplion. The revolution left the church in ruins. In the mid-1840s, architect Lysandros Kaftantzoglou was commissioned to rebuild it. He also reconstructed the Church of Agia Eirini on Aiolou Street. Saint George Karytsis was reborn between 1845 and 1849. The rebuilt church is a three-aisle basilica with a dome. Its gray marble central gate, crowned by a white steeple, adds a unique touch. Interestingly, materials from an ancient and Byzantine-era cemetery were used in its construction. A partial dome collapse in 1849 necessitated the addition of buttresses. The magnificent iconostasis, completed in 1895, and the bishop’s throne from 1901 are works of renowned woodcarver Ioannis Magiasis. Artists like Polychronis Lembesis, Dimos Georgantas, and Dimitrios Pelekasis contributed to the church’s captivating wall paintings. A hidden gem is the oil painting of the Parable of the Blind by archaeologist Alexander Philadelpheus, located near the sanctuary on the north wall. Saint George Karytsis isn’t just bricks and mortar; it’s a living story, echoing the spirit of Athens.