Thessaloniki is renowned for its rich historical background, featuring an amazing array of archaeological and architectural sites of varying ages. These monuments are not only celebrated by the greeks, but are also a major part of the global historical and cultural heritage. In Thessaloniki, amid the plethora of ancient architectural gems, we observe numerous temples and churches — and it’s no wonder that the northern capital of Greece is referred to as the «Holy city». Outstanding among these is the Church of Agia Aikaterini, a sanctuary of great historical significance.
The church of st. Catherine is located in the north-western part of Ano Poli, which is a part of the historic area of Thessaloniki. It is situated near the old fortress walls of the city. This magnificent example of byzantine architecture has its origin during the Paleologian era, but its byzantine name has been lost throughout history. All the same, it is possible to suggest that this place of worship was dedicated to Christ, being a main temple of the monastery of Christ the almighty. The church holds a relic of Agia Aikaterini, the wrist bone of the great martyr.
The building itself dates from the late 13th to early 14th centuries, although an older structure within the catholicon suggests an even earlier date. Inside, some of the wall paintings remain, which date from 1315–1325. Under the rule of the Ottoman empire, Bayezid ii transformed the temple into a mosque. During the restoration of 1946–1951, fragments of frescoes were discovered under the decor; they had been obscured for centuries.
In the years 1947–1951, the Church of Agia Aikaterini was subject to major restoration work, resulting in its current appearance. A decade later, the roof and arches underwent extensive refurbishment.
This cross-domed building features two symmetrical chapels on its east side, and five domes — the central one topping the main nave, and four small ones at the corners of the peristyle.
The luxurious ornamentation of the stonework bears witness to the remarkable byzantine construction expertise. The outside of the edifice is remarkable for its fineness, displaying exquisite proportions and a variety of ornamental elements — zigzag passageways, blind arches and cavities, half-columns, window embrasures, openings with superimposed arches, and ceramic ornaments. The body of the construction is divided by a marble cornice and the intricate stonework on the exterior walls artistically discloses each structural component of the temple.
In the church, there are noteworthy XIV century frescoes. Bishops and the apostles' assembly are featured in the sanctuary’s apse with prophets and angels manifesting around the now annihilated depiction of Christ Pin the main dome. The iconographic plan in the nave includes scenes from Christ’s miracles, and the western segment of the peristyle has images of single saints.
Situated in Ano Poli or upper town, the area of Thessaloniki’s old district, the church of Church of Agia Aikaterini stands at the junction of Tsamadou, Tsachini and Ious streets. If you take a stroll through the old city or explore the fortress walls of Thessaloniki or the nearby church of prophet Elijah, you can reach Church of Agia Aikaterini too. Moreover, buses no. 11 and no. 30 have a stop just close to the church.
It is wise for both genders to put on a plain, muted-toned wardrobe that covers the arms and legs when visiting the Church of Agia Aikaterini. It is worth mentioning that it is not a tradition in Greece for women to cover their heads with a veil when going to a temple, nor is it forbidden to enter a church wearing trousers.
When visiting, one should think of it as an opportunity to pray quietly and reverently, so any loud noises, laughter, and music would be considered disrespectful. Additionally, while in the church during a service, it is advised to remain quiet and still, even if one wishes to light a candle or leave a note on an icon. A visit prior to the service is recommended if one wishes to view icons, light candles in front of them, or leave messages.
