Elkomenos Christos - EO Monemvasias Krokeon

great church in the lower town

Historic, central, contextual.

nice place and you see old houses and churches

Very beautiful and historic Greek Orthodox church. Very touching "atmosphere". Orthodox people's best choice for all ceremonies. Best choice for an Orthodox experience for everybody!

Basilica with a cupola, three semi-circular arches to the east and a domed narthex to the west. The current architectural form is the result of alterations at various times, but the original structure probably dates from the Early Christian period (6th-7th centuries). In the 11th and 12th centuries the chapel of Aghios Ioannis was incorporated into the south side of the church. In 1539 a church official named Georgios Kougydas built buttresses onto the south wall. In 1697 the dome and narthex were added. In later centuries (18th – 20th) repairs were made and the bell tower was built on the northwest side. On several occasions, icons and other artefacts were were removed. Emperor Isaac II Angelos (1185-1195) removed the icon of the Elkomenos Christos (Christ in chains) and took it to the chapel of Archangel Michael at Sthenia, in Constantinople. In the second half of the 14th century the icon of the Crucifixion was stolen by illicit traders in antiquities and later on, was for many years exhibited at Athens’ Byzantine Museum. It was finally brought back to the Elkomenos Christos in 2011. It is considered to be one of the largest and most beautiful examples of what is known as the Palaeologian Renaissance and is of inestimable value. Today in the interior of the church are displayed post-Byzantine icons (17th-18th centuries) such as the Elkomenos Christos, the Virgin before the Cross, Aghios Ioannis Prodromos and the Birth of Christ on the altar screen, and the Lady of Pantanassa on the icon stand. The marble carvings date from the Early Christian and Byzantine periods. The marble altar screen was built in 1901 by the Tinos marble sculptor Georgios Kaparia to replace an older wood carved screen now standing in the Virgin of Myrtidiotissa.

What a great place to be in! It is very well kept and interesting. Here, one can think of the good old legends of Greeks rebelling here against the Turks, of the horrible and brutal siege that followed... Highly recommended!

It is placed in the center of the village so it is very easy to visit. Inside you can see the extra rare picture of Christ and learn the very special story of it. You should take a look of this magnificent piece of art. The building is ancient but in a very good condition so worth a visit.

I love it. Beers and relax with the outstanding view that the castle provide you. Cheap, real and romantic as I like it. The best psychologist is the mother nature. Take your boy/girl- friend and go there. Monemvasia has the power to eliminate your problem. Everybody deserve it. Let the wild nature to hug your soul and travel with the time ship as they call it. :)