Church of the Holy Apostles - Church of the Holy Apostles
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Church of the Holy Apostles

4.7
·529 reviews·Thessaloniki, Greece

A 14th-century Byzantine marvel with original frescoes and mosaics, offering a peaceful glimpse into Paleologian art and architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Church of the Holy Apostles - Church of the Holy Apostles

Church of the Holy Apostles

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 14th-century Byzantine marvel with original frescoes and mosaics, offering a peaceful glimpse into Paleologian art and architecture.

4.7
(529 reviews)

"A beautiful Byzantine church with an Eastern Orthodox style and UNESCO title, perfect for peaceful exploration."

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Original Frescoes & Mosaics

Original Frescoes & Mosaics

Marvel at the preserved 14th-century Byzantine artwork, including stunning frescoes and mosaic fragments that tell religious stories.

Paleologian Architecture

Paleologian Architecture

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

Peaceful Exploration

Peaceful Exploration

Enjoy a serene visit, often with few tourists, allowing for quiet contemplation and appreciation of the sacred space.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While the Church of the Holy Apostles is a UNESCO World Heritage site, it's not as overrun with tourists as some other Byzantine churches. Visiting during off-peak hours or on weekdays can offer a more peaceful experience to appreciate the stunning frescoes and mosaics without large crowds. Reddit

Understanding the Significance

This 14th-century Byzantine church is a remarkable example of Paleologian architecture, featuring original frescoes and mosaic fragments. Its historical and artistic importance makes it a must-see for architecture and iconography enthusiasts. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Sunday late afternoon
Why
May be open after services
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Tonight at 6pm! 🎉 Pancake Supper 🥞🥓 with music featuring the Mighty Souls Brass Band 🎷🎺 followed by a Mardi Gras Bicycle parade 🚲 and a special liturgy 🙏🏻 $5 per person ($15 max per Family) All are welcome! Bring a guest! 💜💚💛 #episcopal #episcopalchurch #mardigras #shrovetuesday #pancakesupper #colliervilletn #churchlife
holyapostlestn
41 likes • 0 views

Check Opening Hours

Opening hours can be a bit wonky; it's best to verify them before your visit. Reddit

Appreciate the Art

Focus on the incredible iconography and frescoes, especially the Xmas Hymn to the Theotokos. Reddit

Happy Ash Wednesday and Valentine’s Day. Jon and I have been going to the most amazing Episcopal Church called Holy Apostles in Collierville. We are finishing up our confirmation classes with Reverends Lisa and Geri and with future priest Casey. The Episcopal Church is the breath of fresh air that we’ve been looking for spiritually. We have never felt more loved and accepted by a church before....
randystalcup1985
35 likes • 0 views
Another joyous day in God’s Church! This afternoon at Church of the Holy Apostles in Collierville, Bishop Phoebe joined with the people of Holy Apostles for the Celebration of New Ministry of the Rev. Lisa McIndoo as Rector. Bishop Don Johnson, previous Bishop of our diocese, was preacher. Many blessings to Reverend Lisa and Church of the Holy Apostles!
episcopalwesttn
32 likes • 0 views

Quiet Contemplation

This church is often nearly empty, offering a perfect opportunity for peaceful exploration and prayer. Reddit

Nearby Amenities

A cafe and restaurant are conveniently located next to the church. Reddit

Father John’s Easter reading, homily, and prayers are posted to facebook. Watch anytime! No need to be on facebook to watch—just visit www.facebook.com/hapostles in your browser. #episcopal #episcopalchurch #happyeaster #easter #heisrisen #jesusmovement #colliervilletn #holyapostlestn
holyapostlestn
31 likes • 0 views

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. Reddit

Appreciate the Art

Focus on the incredible iconography and frescoes, especially the Xmas Hymn to the Theotokos. Reddit

Quiet Contemplation

This church is often nearly empty, offering a perfect opportunity for peaceful exploration and prayer. Reddit

Nearby Amenities

A cafe and restaurant are conveniently located next to the church. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(529 reviews)

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

Stunning frescoes and mosaics
Impressive Byzantine architecture
Peaceful and uncrowded atmosphere

What People Dislike

Inconsistent opening hours

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. Reddit

Yes, it's situated within the city and is relatively easy to locate, especially if you are exploring the historical areas. Reddit

Taking a local bus or a taxi is recommended. The church is a significant landmark, so most drivers will know its location. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Church of the Holy Apostles is generally free, though donations are appreciated. It's a functioning place of worship. Reddit

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'. Reddit

Typically, there is no entrance fee, but donations are welcomed to help with the upkeep of this historic site. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find original frescoes and fragments of mosaics from the 14th century, showcasing Byzantine art and iconography. Reddit

It's often described as being 'nearly empty without any tourists,' making it ideal for peaceful exploration. Reddit

It's a prime example of Byzantine architecture, specifically a cross-in-square church with five domes, dating back to the 14th century. Reddit

Yes, there is a cafe and a restaurant located right next to the church for your convenience. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The intricate details of the frescoes and mosaics inside the church offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The exterior masonry is also impressive. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's always wise to be discreet and respectful in religious sites. Check for signage or ask permission. Reddit

The interior lighting can be dim, typical of historic churches, which might require a higher ISO or a tripod for sharper images. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Art & History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about art and history, the Church of the Holy Apostles is a treasure trove. You'll be captivated by the original 14th-century frescoes and mosaic fragments, offering a glimpse into Byzantine artistic traditions. The Paleologian architectural style is also a significant draw, showcasing a unique period of design. Reddit

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. Reddit

Spiritual Seekers

The Church of the Holy Apostles offers a profoundly spiritual experience, often described as a peaceful sanctuary. Its relatively uncrowded nature allows for quiet reflection and prayer, making it an ideal place to connect with the sacred. Reddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvel

The Church of the Holy Apostles in Thessaloniki is a significant example of Byzantine architecture, constructed in the early 14th century. It follows the cross-in-square plan, a common design for churches of that era, and is distinguished by its five domes. The structure also features a narthex and a perimetric gallery, hinting at its original function as the katholikon (main church) of a monastery. Reddit

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. Reddit

Artistic Treasures Within

The interior of the Church of the Holy Apostles is renowned for its original frescoes and fragments of mosaics. These artworks are not merely decorative; they are vital historical and religious artifacts that offer insights into the artistic and spiritual practices of the 14th century. Reddit

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. Reddit

A Peaceful Sanctuary

Unlike many popular tourist attractions, the Church of the Holy Apostles is frequently described as being peaceful and uncrowded. This allows visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the ancient structure and appreciate its artistic and spiritual significance without distraction. Reddit

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. Reddit

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