Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens

Introducing the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens, dedicated to the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary. It looks fairly recent compared to the ancient Greek and Roman ruins all around the city, doesn’t it? As a matter of fact, it was built in 1862 and it’s now the biggest and most important Orthodox church in Athens. It blends elements of neoclassical and Byzantine architecture, and it was constructed with materials from over 70 abandoned churches that were practically in ruins at the time. King Otto I and Queen Amalia of Greece laid the foundation stone on December 25, 1842. The Cathedral was badly damaged in an earthquake in 1999, but it was restored only a year later. Right next to it, you will find the so-called “Little Metropolis”, the church of Saint Eleutherios and Panagia Gorgoepikoos. It looks nothing like the cathedral – it’s way smaller and its architectural design is radically different. It’s built in the Byzantine style and they constructed it with stones and reliefs from ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine monuments. Talk about history coming full circle! Take a closer look at the exterior walls and you’ll find engravings and sculptures from different eras! The church dates back to the 12th century, and it’s therefore much older than the Cathedral right next door!