What I can see

Agia Irini (St. Irene) is one of the most important churches of Athens centre. The architecture of the church is this of a monastery, with three semicircular niches forming a cross, while in the middle lies the dome. Externally, it was constructed using a novel – not satisfactory according to Biris- combination of ecclesiastical architecture and neoclassicism. The homonymous square is surrounded by cafes, some of which are gay friendly. During the day, it is a quiet but popular square, which synthesizes a genuine Athenian cityscape. The surrounding area of Agia Irini also has some bars mailny playing alternative music.

What I can't see

When Athens became the capital of Greece, a cathedral was planned to be constructed in this spot. It was where the medieval church of Agia Irini lied. Eventually, the cathedral was built elsewhere but this church was built almost simultaneously with the cathedral and served as such until the completion of the cathedral’s construction. It was constructed using materials from demolished old churches and ruins of the Acropolis. The place – both the medieval, and the youngest church – is associated with major events such as the election of mayors, the coming of age celebrations of King Otto, the introduction of 25 March as a national holiday and the first anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution (1844) .

Info

• Address: Aeolou St.

Bibliography