Agios Konstantinos is a small, arched Byzantine church located approximately 500 meters from the renowned Panagia Kera church in Kritsa, Crete. It is a single-nave structure with a vaulted roof and a semi-circular apse. Despite its modest size, the church is adorned with a series of well-preserved frescoes that date back to 1354-1355. These frescoes, though showing some signs of age-related deterioration, still exhibit an elegant style and offer a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of the region.
Frescoes
The interior walls of Agios Konstantinos are adorned with frescoes depicting various scenes from the Bible. The apse features a traditional portrayal of Christ Pantocrator surrounded by a host of angels. Other notable frescoes include:
- The Hospitality of Abraham
- Hierarchs in the apse
- The Annunciation of the Theotokos
- The Ascension
- The Baptism
- The Crucifixion
- The Harrowing of Hell
Kritsa: A Hub of Religious Interest
Agios Konstantinos is just one of the many religious sites that dot the landscape of Kritsa. This picturesque village, located on the slopes of Mount Dikti, is known for its abundance of Byzantine churches, many of which boast exquisite frescoes. Kritsa’s rich religious heritage is a testament to its long and storied history, and it continues to attract visitors from around the world who come to admire its architectural and artistic treasures.
Additional Points:
- Construction Period: 14th century (1354-1355)
- Location: Kritsa, Crete, Greece
- Historical Significance: Contains well-preserved frescoes from the 14th century
- Current Status: Active place of worship, the church is locked restricting the entrance inside.
Reference
Skoulikaris Dimitrios, 2015, The churches of Kritsa
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