The most complete
information guide about Athens, Greece
Churches in Athens
Agios Konstantinos (Saint
Constantine)
The large and impressive church of Saint Constantine is situated
on Agiou Konstantinou street which connects Omonia square with
Karaiskaki square. In 1869 the city council decided to build a
church dedicated to Saint Constantine to celebrate the birth of
the Prince Royal and future king Constantine I.
Funds
were raised by collections and Lissandros Kaftantzoglou designed
the building. Construction began in 1871 and was completed in
1893 when the church was inaugurated. Queen Olga, Prince Constantine’s
mother, paid for the decoration and other miscellaneous works
necessary to complete the church.
Architect
Kaftantzoglou despised the Byzantine style and believed that modern
Greek architecture should be modeled upon ancient Greek style.
The result, according to many architects, is a failure. Despite
its imposing character, largely due to its size and the extensive
use of marble, the building is not well proportioned but seems
heavy and overbearing.
Agiou Konstantiniou street
Omonia - Metaxourghio
For
typical words, please consult our Greek
glossary.