Small Mitropolis

The Church of the Little Metropolis, also known as Panagia Gorgoepikoos or Agios Eleftherios, is a Byzantine gem located next to the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens. Probably built in the 12th century, its precise dating is still a subject of debate among scholars, with some hypotheses placing it between the 9th and 13th centuries. This church is one of the best-preserved in Athens and represents a rare example of Byzantine architecture in the city. The site on which the Little Metropolis stands has a long religious history that predates the construction of the current church by far. Before the Christian era, there was a temple dedicated to the goddess Eileithyia, the deity of childbirth and fertility. This continuity of the place as a sacred space reflects the deep historical and spiritual stratification of the city of Athens. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Little Metropolis is the extensive use of spolia, materials reused from ancient buildings. The walls of the church are a true collage of marble fragments, including sculptures and reliefs from different eras, including pagan, Roman, and early Christian elements. This creative reuse of ancient materials gives the church a unique character and makes it an exceptional example of how cultures can interact and overlap over the centuries. The exterior of the church is adorned with a series of intricate reliefs, including those representing the zodiac signs, scenes of daily life, and Christian symbols. These reliefs not only embellish the structure but also tell complex stories that reflect the beliefs and religious practices of their creators. In particular, the frieze above the windows is divided into twelve sections representing the months of the year, with agricultural and celebratory scenes providing a valuable glimpse into life in ancient Athens. The Little Metropolis has undergone numerous changes in its use over its long history. During the Ottoman occupation, the church was transformed into a mosque. Subsequently, after the Greek War of Independence and the creation of the first independent Greek state, the building was used as a warehouse for relics and antiquities, and later as a public library from 1834 to 1863. This period of practical adaptations helped preserve the structure, preventing it from falling into ruin. In the 19th century, during the construction of the new metropolitan cathedral, the architects and craftsmen responsible for the project recognized the historical and architectural importance of the Little Metropolis and worked to preserve it. It was then that the church was dedicated to Saint Eleutherios, the name by which it is known today, and restored to ensure its survival as a historic monument. The interior of the church, although modest in size, is equally fascinating. The inscribed cross plan, typical of Byzantine churches, gives the building a sense of harmony and proportion. The iconostasis, richly decorated with icons, adds a touch of spirituality and sacred art that invites contemplation. The icons, many of which date back to the post-Byzantine period, are expressions of devotion and artistic mastery of their creators.