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Once known as the Church of Agios Eleutherios (Saint Elefterios) or Panagia Gorgoepikoos, the “Minor Metropolis” is a small Byzantine structure located at the Mitropoleos Square in Monastiraki, directly beside the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens.
The place of worship is constructed on top of the remains of an old temple dedicated to the goddess who oversaw childbirth and midwifery, Eileithyia, and the structure is nearly entirely made of recycled stones and pieces of ornate sculptures from prior monuments. Estimated dates for the church`s development range between the 9th and 13th centuries. It is sufficient to say that it is very aged.
Originally, the interior of the church was entirely decorated with frescoes. Sadly, only one of these survives today; an image of the Panagia (Mary, mother of Jesus) over the entrance.
Agios Eleutherios Hours and Information
- Hours: 10am to 5pm daily.
- Website: iaath.gr
- Location: Mitroploeos Square
- Telephone: +30 21 0322 1308
- Entrance Fee: No payment required to enter; donations are appreciated.
- Parking: Street parking, nearby pay lots.
- Nearest Metro Connection: Syntagma, Monastiraki.
- Notice: modest dress is essential in Greek Orthodox places of worship and holy places, which implies avoiding uncovered knees and shoulders for both women and men. If you’re wearing shorts, a short skirt, or a tank top, covering up with a wrap before going in is suitable and appreciated.
Agios Eleutherios Church in Athens
