Church of Panagia Kapnikarea

Kapnikarea church, a Byzantine jewel of Ermou street

Kapnikarea church is a small Byzantine church planted in the middle of the shopping street Ermou, in Athens. The Athens audio-guided tour stops here, with respect, to evoke this medieval treasure, an islet of spirituality in the heart of the bustle.

A church of the eleventh century

Kapnikarea church was built in the eleventh century, which makes it one of the oldest of Athens. A small Byzantine building of stone and brick, topped with a dome, it stands right in the middle of Ermou street, the great shopping artery, which was laid out around it. This contrast between Byzantine spirituality and modern bustle makes it an emblematic place of the heart of Athens.

What to see

You admire the small Byzantine church of stone and brick, its dome and its atmosphere of contemplation, in the middle of the shopping street Ermou. Kapnikarea is one of the oldest churches of Athens. It is a stop for lovers of Byzantine art, to be discovered with respect, in the heart of the bustle of the city.

Practical information

Kapnikarea church lies in the middle of Ermou street, in the heart of Athens, reachable on foot. A working Orthodox place of worship, it can be visited with respect for services; entry is generally free, but hours vary. It is best to check them before coming and to respect the sacred character of the place.

Why is Kapnikarea church singular?

Because this eleventh-century Byzantine church, one of the oldest of Athens, stands right in the middle of the shopping street Ermou.

Where is Kapnikarea church?

In the middle of Ermou street, in the heart of Athens.