Church of the Holy Apostles
A 14th-century Byzantine marvel with original frescoes and mosaics, offering a peaceful glimpse into Paleologian art and architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Church of the Holy Apostles
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 14th-century Byzantine marvel with original frescoes and mosaics, offering a peaceful glimpse into Paleologian art and architecture.
"A beautiful Byzantine church with an Eastern Orthodox style and UNESCO title, perfect for peaceful exploration."
Check Opening Hours
Opening hours can be a bit wonky; it's best to verify them before your visit.
Appreciate the Art
Focus on the incredible iconography and frescoes, especially the Xmas Hymn to the Theotokos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Original Frescoes & Mosaics
Marvel at the preserved 14th-century Byzantine artwork, including stunning frescoes and mosaic fragments that tell religious stories.

Paleologian Architecture
Admire the unique cross-in-square design with five domes, a testament to its rich architectural heritage.

Peaceful Exploration
Enjoy a serene visit, often with few tourists, allowing for quiet contemplation and appreciation of the sacred space.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Opening Hours
Opening hours can be a bit wonky; it's best to verify them before your visit.
Appreciate the Art
Focus on the incredible iconography and frescoes, especially the Xmas Hymn to the Theotokos.
Quiet Contemplation
This church is often nearly empty, offering a perfect opportunity for peaceful exploration and prayer.
Nearby Amenities
A cafe and restaurant are conveniently located next to the church.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Opening Hours
Opening hours can be a bit wonky; it's best to verify them before your visit.
Appreciate the Art
Focus on the incredible iconography and frescoes, especially the Xmas Hymn to the Theotokos.
Quiet Contemplation
This church is often nearly empty, offering a perfect opportunity for peaceful exploration and prayer.
Nearby Amenities
A cafe and restaurant are conveniently located next to the church.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Church of the Holy Apostles for its stunning 14th-century Byzantine art, including original frescoes and mosaics, and its impressive Paleologian architecture. Many appreciate the peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere, making it ideal for quiet contemplation and exploration. However, some note that the opening hours can be inconsistent.
"A beautiful church that is very visited by believers, which gives a special impression."
Sveto Rakovic
"A beautiful Byzantine church with an Eastern Orthodox style and UNESCO title. It is nearly empty without any tourists. Perfect for those who would like to explore it in peace or pray. There is a café and a restaurant next to it. Watch out for a few pet dogs!"
Dhruv Mehta
"Definitely a must see for anybody interested in visiting architecture and iconography. The opening hours are a bit wonky."
Anastasios Gounaris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Church of the Holy Apostles is located near the old city walls of Thessaloniki, Greece. It's accessible by foot if you are already in the city center or by local bus routes. Taxis are also readily available.
Yes, it's situated within the city and is relatively easy to locate, especially if you are exploring the historical areas.
Taking a local bus or a taxi is recommended. The church is a significant landmark, so most drivers will know its location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Church of the Holy Apostles is generally free, though donations are appreciated. It's a functioning place of worship.
The opening hours can be inconsistent and may vary. It's advisable to check locally or look for recent visitor information, as they can be 'wonky'.
Typically, there is no entrance fee, but donations are welcomed to help with the upkeep of this historic site.
Yes, you can visit on a Sunday, and it might be open after services, as one visitor noted finding it open in the late afternoon.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find original frescoes and fragments of mosaics from the 14th century, showcasing Byzantine art and iconography.
It's often described as being 'nearly empty without any tourists,' making it ideal for peaceful exploration.
It's a prime example of Byzantine architecture, specifically a cross-in-square church with five domes, dating back to the 14th century.
Yes, there is a cafe and a restaurant located right next to the church for your convenience.
Photography rules can vary in religious sites. It's best to be respectful and check for any posted signs or ask a local attendant if photography is permitted.
📸 📸 Photography
The intricate details of the frescoes and mosaics inside the church offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The exterior masonry is also impressive.
While not explicitly stated, it's always wise to be discreet and respectful in religious sites. Check for signage or ask permission.
The interior lighting can be dim, typical of historic churches, which might require a higher ISO or a tripod for sharper images.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Art & History Enthusiasts
Take your time to study the details of the iconography, particularly pieces like the Xmas Hymn to the Theotokos. The church's status as a UNESCO World Heritage site underscores its global importance, making it a must-visit for a deeper understanding of historical art and architecture.
Spiritual Seekers
Visitors have found the atmosphere conducive to contemplation, especially when the church is open after services. The ancient art and architecture contribute to a sense of timelessness, enhancing the spiritual journey for those seeking a moment of tranquility and devotion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel
Its construction date isn't precisely known due to a lack of definitive inscriptions, but its style firmly places it within the Paleologian period. This era of Byzantine art and architecture is known for its refined aesthetics and detailed ornamentation, which is evident in the church's surviving elements.
Artistic Treasures Within
Visitors often highlight the Xmas Hymn to the Theotokos depicted on the north apse fresco as a particularly striking piece. The preservation of these artworks, despite the passage of centuries, makes the church a valuable site for anyone interested in iconography and Byzantine art. The experience is often described as deeply impressive, especially when the church is visited in peace.
A Peaceful Sanctuary
This serene environment makes it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation and prayer. The lack of overwhelming tourist presence means you can often explore the church at your own pace, taking in the details of the architecture and the ancient artwork.
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