Overview:

The Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary is located in the seaside city of Patras in the region of Achaia in the Peloponnese. It is the see of the Metropolis of Patras. It belongs to the Church of Greece and is under the spiritual care of Metropolitan Theodosis of Patras. It is one of the largest churches in Greece and has been a major religious center since its construction in 1788. It is a popular destination for pilgrims from all over the world who come to learn about Greek Orthodoxy as well as to enjoy the beauty and grandeur of this historic and spiritual center. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Greece
Prominent Features:

-Beautifully ornate façade -Intricately carved marble and ornate patterns -Tastefully decorated interior with marble and stone floors and walls -Iconostasis wall draped with gold and silver tapestries -Large dome and belfry -Throne of the celebrated Archbishop Ieronymo You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Greece.

History:

The Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary in Greece dates back to the 11th century when it was founded by the Greek Orthodox Church Archdiocese of Athens. The church is located in the city of Heraklion, Crete, and is one of the most important centers of the Orthodox faith in the region. The Church is referenced in the 12th century work "On the Statues of God" by St. Maximus the Confessor. The Church was dedicated to the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary and celebrated the moment of when the Angel Gabriel told Mary she was to be the mother of Jesus. According to tradition, a stone column from the Temple of Hera in Arkadi, Crete was used to build the temple, and its foundation stone was laid on October 25, 1071. Throughout the Middle Ages, the Church served as a pilgrimage site for pilgrims and drove its nearby village during the period of Venetian rule since the 15th century. However, when the Ottomans occupied the island in the 17th century, the Church was looted and damaged. During the Greek War of Independence in 1821, the Church was again attacked and plundered by the Ottoman forces and its icons, holy relics, and liturgical vessels were stolen or destroyed. After the independence of Greece, the Church underwent restorations and repairs as it was strongly supported by the royal families of the newly formed kingdom. The Church has remained an important Orthodox shrine until modern day. Today, the Church serves as a major spiritual and educational center. Its liturgical services, activities, and performances are attended by many visitors from all over the world. Visit one of the famous monuments of Greece with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary is the most important Orthodox Church in Athens, Greece. 2. It was built in the early 18th century by the benefactor Antonios Troglides. 3. The height of the dome is 32 meters and is made of lead-covered brick. 4. There are five naves, separated by marble columns with richly carved capitals. 5. It is especially renowned for its magnificent Byzantine-style mosaics and wall-paintings. 6. The mosaic on the dome has a gold background and portraits of the Virgin Mary and Jesus, surrounded by 12 archangels. 7. The richly decorated bells of the church are also renowned for their beauty. 8. Under the floor are several crypts containing bones believed to be of martyrs from the early days of Christianity. 9. The Church is believed to be haunted by several ghost figures and the sound of chanting. 10. The Church is a significant symbol of the Greek Orthodox faith in Athens. One of the historical monuments of Greece, it tells the story of a bygone era