Agios Spyridon Church
A historic Orthodox church in Nafplion, Greece, famous as the assassination site of the nation's first governor, Ioannis Kapodistrias.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Agios Spyridon Church
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Orthodox church in Nafplion, Greece, famous as the assassination site of the nation's first governor, Ioannis Kapodistrias.
"A church full of history and energy, where you can see the spot where they shot him. "
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this active place of worship.
📸 Respectful Photography
Be mindful of services; ask permission before taking photos inside.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Assassination Site
Nafplion
Witness the preserved bullet marks on the wall where Greece's first governor was tragically assassinated.
Byzantine Icons and Frescoes
Interior
Admire the solemn interior adorned with numerous Byzantine icons and striking frescoes, including the vivid depiction of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea.
Star of David Symbol
Church Floor
Discover the unusual Star of David symbol embedded in the church floor, a unique element for an Orthodox church.
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Planning Your Visit
Historical Significance
Respectful Visitation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this active place of worship.
📸 Respectful Photography
Be mindful of services; ask permission before taking photos inside.
⏳ Allow Time for History
Take time to absorb the historical significance, especially the assassination site.
💧 Ottoman Fountains Nearby
Don't miss the charming Ottoman fountains with Arabic calligraphy in the square.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this active place of worship.
📸 Respectful Photography
Be mindful of services; ask permission before taking photos inside.
⏳ Allow Time for History
Take time to absorb the historical significance, especially the assassination site.
💧 Ottoman Fountains Nearby
Don't miss the charming Ottoman fountains with Arabic calligraphy in the square.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Agios Spyridon Church for its profound historical significance, particularly the preserved assassination site of Greece's first governor. The beautiful Byzantine icons and frescoes, along with the unique Star of David symbol, are also highlighted. Some note that parts of the church may be inaccessible, but the overall experience is considered deeply moving and historically rich.
"The church where Greeks killed the first prime minister of Greece. You can actually see the spot where they shoot him and stab him..they wanted to be sure that they will kill him.. a church full of history and energy.. entrance is free..no need ticket.. but they have barred the half church you can't go near the temple to see."
Antonis M.
"The Church of Agios (Saint) Spiridon in Nafplion, Peloponnese: The church of Agios Spyridon is located in the Old Town of Nafplion, along with the paved streets of the town. This church was first built in 1702 with the financing of the Nafplion Brotherhood of Orthodox Greeks. This is a single-space basilica with a dome and a bell tower constructed in 1853. The interior of the church is solemn and there are many Byzantine icons and paintings around the walls.
The painting that marks out for its vivid colors and its unusual theme is the large fresco of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea, just opposite the entrance door. Also, another unusual sign for an Orthodox church is the Star of David, a Jewish symbol that can be seen at the floor, almost in the center of the church.
This church has an important historical significance for the Greeks. It was there that on September 27th, 1831, the first governor of the newly-established Greek State, Ioannis Kapodistrias, was assassinated by his political opponents, some men from the Mavrokordatos family, a wealthy and strong family that time in Greece who had contributed a lot in the Greek War of Independence.
That Sunday morning, Kapodistrias was going to the Holy Mass. As usually, he preferred this church that was dedicated to Saint Spiridon, the protector of his homeland, Corfu. Few men appeared from the stairs opposite the church and shot him. In fact, some of these bullets still have their prints against the wall of the church. These prints have been framed in a glass case.
Personally the specific historical church is very beautiful from outside and from inside."
Gerasimos Markantonatos
"Here Governor Ioannis Kapodistrias was assassinated on October 9th 1831, by members of the Mavromichalis family.
He was shot and stabbed. The bullet hole is still in the wall by the entrance. Painting inside the church of the assassination.
If you go check out the ottoman fountains in the square with Arabic calligraphy."
C FL
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Agios Spyridon Church is located in the Old Town of Nafplion, easily accessible by foot. If arriving by car, parking can be found in nearby public lots.
No, there are multiple churches named Agios Spyridon across Greece. The most historically significant one, known for the assassination of Ioannis Kapodistrias, is in Nafplion. Other notable ones are in Athens,
Exploring the Old Town of Nafplion on foot is the best way to discover its charming streets, historical sites like Agios Spyridon Church, and hidden gems.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance to Agios Spyridon Church is generally free, as it is an active place of worship.
Opening hours can vary, but it's typically open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check locally or visit during typical church service times.
While the assassination site with bullet marks is a key feature, some parts of the church may be partially barred off for preservation or religious reasons.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
This church is historically significant as the site where Ioannis Kapodistrias, the first governor of Greece, was assassinated on September 27, 1831.
Inside, you'll find a solemn atmosphere with Byzantine icons, frescoes, and the preserved bullet marks from the assassination. Look for the unusual Star of David on the floor.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful, especially during services. Some areas might have restrictions.
Yes, the Old Town of Nafplion is rich in history, with sites like the Palamidi Fortress and Bourtzi Castle nearby. The Ottoman fountains in the square are also worth seeing.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture, the preserved bullet marks, and the interior frescoes offer compelling photographic subjects. Capturing the atmosphere of the Old Town surrounding the church is also recommended.
While generally permitted, it's always best to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services.
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History Buffs
Beyond this dramatic event, the church's interior is rich with Byzantine icons and frescoes, offering a glimpse into religious art and history. The presence of the Star of David on the floor also adds an unusual historical and symbolic layer to explore.
Cultural Explorers
Appreciate the traditional Orthodox architecture, the intricate Byzantine art, and the unique symbolic elements within. Afterward, explore the surrounding picturesque streets, discover the Ottoman fountains, and soak in the atmosphere of this historic Greek town.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Assassination of Ioannis Kapodistrias
Kapodistrias, who was from Corfu, often attended services at this church dedicated to Saint Spyridon, his patron saint. The assassination sent shockwaves through Greece and significantly impacted the nation's early development. Visitors can also find a painting inside the church depicting the assassination, offering a visual narrative of the event.
Beyond the assassination, the church itself is a beautiful example of Orthodox architecture. It was first built in 1702 and later featured a dome and bell tower. The interior is known for its solemnity, adorned with Byzantine icons and paintings, including a notable fresco of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea.
Architectural and Symbolic Features
A particularly noteworthy artistic element is the large fresco of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea, positioned opposite the entrance. This vibrant artwork is a focal point for visitors. More unusually for an Orthodox church, the floor near the center features a Star of David, a Jewish symbol, adding a layer of intriguing symbolism and historical context to the sacred space.
While many Agios Spyridon churches exist across Greece, each with its own character, the Nafplion location stands out for its blend of religious art, historical weight, and unique symbolic details.
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