The Church of Michail Archangelos: A Byzantine Monument in Arkalochori, Crete
Located in the old cemetery of Arkalochori, a short distance from the village, the Church of Michail Archangelos stands as a testament to Crete’s rich Byzantine heritage. This cruciform church, likely constructed in the 13th century, features a later addition of a narthex with a unique cone-shaped dome and originally open arches, later enclosed.
Artistic Legacy and Earthquake Damage
The church’s interior boasts a wealth of frescoes, although many are fragmentary. The main church contains 13th-century depictions of scenes from the Gospels and the life of Archangel Michael. The narthex, dating to the mid-14th century, showcases a less visible but still significant collection of frescoes, including a central Pantocrator in the dome and scenes from the Mariological cycle.
The 2021 earthquakes in Arkalochori caused significant damage to the Church of Michail Archangelos. While the structure remains standing, extensive repairs are needed to prevent further deterioration and potential collapse.
Construction Period:
- Likely 13th century, with the narthex added in the 14th century
Location:
- Old cemetery of Arkalochori, Crete, Greece
Historical Significance:
- Rare example of Byzantine architecture in Crete
- Contains valuable 13th and 14th-century frescoes
Current Status:
- Standing but severely damaged by the 2021 earthquakes
- Requires extensive restoration
Initially, it belonged to the architectural type of the cross-roofed temple, with the characteristic raised transversal nave, which protrudes from the long side walls. In its western part, the narthex with its peculiar dome and conical cover, is a 14th century addition. At first, its sides were open with arches, which seem to have been later walled up, creating blind arches inside.
The rich fresco decoration inside the church is preserved in fragments. In the main church there are frescoes from the 13th century, with scenes from the Gospel cycle, as well as from the life of Michael the Archangel. The pictorial decoration in the narthex, which dates to the mid-14th century, is difficult to distinguish on the side walls. But it is better preserved in the dome, where Pantocrator is depicted in its center, while on its drum, scenes from the Mariological cycle are developed and the Evangelists are represented in the spherical triangles. (source tourist guide)
Access
The church is open to the public, but there are warning signs because of the stability issues of the structure.
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