Visit the oldest remaining Byzantine church in Greece, Panagia Ekatondapiliani. Constructed in the 4th century, the church complex contains three chapels and a baptistery. Believed to be founded by Saint Helen, the mother of Roman emperor Constantine, the church contains Byzantine frescoes and a 6th-century iconostasis. Explore the small museum inside the complex and admire the collection of medieval icons, ritual objects, and vestments used in church ceremonies. Be sure to see the baptistery, which containins the remains of an ancient mosaic floor. Arrange your visit to Panagia Ekatondapiliani and discover more family-friendly attractions in Paros using our Paros travel planner.
Create an itinerary including Panagia Ekatondapiliani
© OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors
Panagia Ekatondapiliani reviews
-
I first visit this church dating back AD 326 just before closing after strolling the city. The experience was magical. The lights, the silence and being there alone made a special atmosphere. The... more »
-
One of the greatest churches I have visited. Make sure you are visiting during the Sunday liturgy. The singing by the cantor was amazing and giving goosebumps. more »
-
To see absolutely. The gift of Helena to Paros, after she was saved with her crew from a violent sea tempest, in the 4th century, during her journey to Jerusalem. Here is kept a splendid icon of..... more »
-
Very beautiful old church 😍⛪ my friends had wedding there. Amazing place!
-
Nice Byzantine church. Quite large, and different from most I've seen on the Cyclades
-
Emaizing place where you can feel history.
-
As a church enthusiast with a lot of experience in Byzantine architecture, I didn't expect to ever be as utterly blown away by a church again as I was when I stepped through the gates of Panagia Ekatondapiliani. Translated as Most Holy of a Hundred Gates, Ekatondapiliani is by far the most gorgeous temple in all of the Cyclades. One can easily see the unique stone masonry from outside, while walking through the outside courtyard decorated by the ancient ruins and the Byzantine remnants. But stepping through the church's entrance is another thing entirely. Inside the temple, one will be quick to notice the lack of frescos and wall art. The walls are instead beautiful stone masonry, minimalistic and humble. There are many halls in this temple, many of which are ancient and others more recent. The temple was constructed on an ancient gymnasium, much of which remains there today, in the form of repurposed columns, walls and art. The blend of Classical and Byzantine Roman architecture is unique and mesmerizing. The church complex has the main church as well as a multitude of smaller shrines and a Byzantine baptistry. The main temple is a direct replica of Haghia Sophia of Constantinople, though that was not always the case. The first church was constructed by empress Eirini, dedicated to Panagia, the virgin Mary, to show her gratitude for a successful pilgrimage to the Holy Lands. Years later, after an earthquake destroyed the church, it was reconstructed in the form of Haghia Sophia. The local Neokoros was very helpful and accommodating, giving me a tour throughout the church. I was also able to get a view from the female-dedicated space of the temple. The church is located in a very central square of Parikia, and is open almost all day. It also has a souvenir shop and many events are held there. To everyone visiting Paros, and other church enthusiasts, I recommend visiting this place at least once.
-
Such a history.. really moving! Must see!
Plan your trip to Paros
-
Get a personalized trip
A complete day by day itinerary
based on your preferences -
Customize it
Refine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedules -
Book it
Choose from the best hotels
and activities. Up to 50% off -
Manage it
Everything in one place.
Everyone on the same page.
Side trips from Paros
Hidden gems in Paros
Nearby attractions in Paros
Trips to Panagia Ekatondapiliani by other users
14 days in Athens & Paros
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Athens
Paros
9 days in Greece
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Mykonos Town
Paros
Naxos Town
8 days in Paros
BY A USER FROM LUXEMBOURG
Catamaran Emelia
Venetian Fortress
Old Port of Naoussa
7 days in The Balkans
BY A USER FROM TURKEY
Istanbul
Paros
Naxos Town
17 days in Greece
BY A USER FROM SPAIN
Fira
Naxos Town
Paros
22 days in Greece
BY A USER FROM SPAIN
Fira
Milos
Mykonos Town
16 days in Greece
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Athens
Mykonos Town
Paros
8 days in Paros
BY A USER FROM BELGIUM
Catamaran Emelia
Archaeological Museum Parou
Panagia Ekatondapiliani
13 days in Greece
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Naxos Town
Paros
Fira
15 days in Athens, Greek Isles & Paros
BY A USER FROM UNITED KINGDOM
Athens
Mykonos Town
Paros
14 days in Cyclades
BY A USER FROM GERMANY
Fira
Paros
Agios Prokopios
16 days in Athens, Greek Isles & Paros
BY A USER FROM UNITED KINGDOM
Athens
Mykonos Town
Paros
Are you the owner of this business?
Click here for promotion tips.