Greece’s Ministry of Culture is proceeding with a comprehensive project for the stabilization, conservation, restoration, and enhancement of the Byzantine Church of Agios Nikolaos Ragavas in Plaka, one of the most significant surviving monuments of this era in Athens.
The project encompasses the structural restoration and aesthetic enhancement of the church, the conservation of its interior décor, and the modernization of its electromechanical installations.
The Byzantine Church is a landmark of Athens
Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni emphasized the church’s historical value and its role in the capital’s narrative:
“The Church of Agios Nikolaos Ragavas is a preeminent Byzantine monument in Athens, testifying to the city’s uninterrupted historical continuity. As the church is located within the protection zone of the Acropolis archaeological site, its enhancement complements the cultural itinerary that highlights the historical continuity of the capital.”
The Minister stressed that the church, an emblematic example of Middle Byzantine architecture, helps integrate the often-overshadowed but significant Christian monuments into the visitor experience alongside the dominant Ancient ruins.
Historical context and architectural phases
The church, located at the intersection of Prytaneiou and Epicharmou streets, was founded around the middle of the 11th century.
According to tradition, the church is linked to the noble Byzantine family of the Ragavas, which included Emperor Michael I Ragabe (reigned 811–813 AD). This connection is supported by an engraved inscription found on a column capital inside the dome during 1979-1980 restorations, which mentions the name Leo Ragkavas and is dated to after the mid-11th century.
The monument has four primary construction phases:
- Original Church (11th Century): A cross-in-square structure featuring an Athenian-type dome.
- Eastern Reconstruction (Late 17th Century): Significant rebuilding of the eastern façade.
- 19th Century Expansion: Additions including the Chapel of Agia Paraskevi and the western hall.
- Post-1917 Addition: The construction of the bell tower.
Previous works and current needs
The church has undergone several interventions, including a partial restoration of the Byzantine elements and the dome in 1979-1980, and surrounding area landscaping in 1999-2000. Recent issues, such as lightning damage to the dome in 2016 (repaired in 2019) and rainwater ingress problems, have highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive structural and conservation work.
The church’s interior features painted decoration applied in various later phases, including several Western-style figurative and decorative elements which will now be conserved.
Related: Athens’ Byzantine Churches: Guardians of History and Faith
