Church of Panagia Chalkeon

The church of Panagia Chalkeon (Greek Παναγία των Χαλκέων Panagia ton Chalkeon, Virgin of the coppersmiths ) in Thessaloniki, is a Byzantine church dating from the 11th century. The most Dikastirion Square north of the Via Egnatia in the former headquarters of the coppersmiths church is located since 1988 a UNESCO World Heritage ( Early Christian and Byzantine buildings in Thessaloniki ).

History

Consecrated in 1028 church dates back to the Protospatarios and Katepano ( senior officer and governor ) of Langobardia ( Puglia) and his wife Maria Katakalis back ( donor's inscription at the western entrance ). The donor's inscription identifies the location at a " previously shameful place" ( πρην βέβηλος τόπος ), suggesting that previously housed a Greek temple here. During the Turkish occupation the church was converted into a mosque ( KazancIlar Camii ).

1972 dedicated the Hellenic Post of the Church a stamp to 4.50 drachmas.

Construction and Equipment

The brick (hence " Red Church ", Kokini Ekklisia ) according to the classic plan of a cross-domed church built on a Greek cross building has four columns with Trapezkapitellen and three domes on ( a central dome with a high tambour and two on the two-story narthex ). In the east the Hieron is attached with a three-sided closed apse and two side rooms. The exterior with pointed gables adorned with various arches and pilasters, in which the influence of the architecture of the capital Constantinople Opel reveals. Inside the original furnishings with marble inlays and frescoes is largely, though not in good condition, maintained. The program includes the painting of scenes from the Christological cycle.