Chiesa di San Nicolo dei Greci
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San Nicolò dei Greci

4.6
·202 reviews·Trieste, Italy

A Neo-Classic gem on Trieste's waterfront, this Greek Orthodox church boasts a spectacular interior with a magnificent iconostasis and a breathtaking ...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Chiesa di San Nicolo dei Greci

San Nicolò dei Greci

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A Neo-Classic gem on Trieste's waterfront, this Greek Orthodox church boasts a spectacular interior with a magnificent iconostasis and a breathtaking ceiling canvas.

4.6
(202 reviews)

"Inside will amaze. There was even scaffolding due to restoration and it was still stunning."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Details

The interior is small but spectacular; take your time to photograph the intricate details. :iphone:

🙏 Respectful Visit

As a holy place, dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor during your visit. :pray:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Magnificent Iconostasis

The Magnificent Iconostasis

Presbytery

A stunning divide between the sacred presbytery and the nave, adorned with icons and rich in detail.

Reddit
Ceiling Canvas: Christ in Glory

Ceiling Canvas: Christ in Glory

Nave Ceiling

An expansive oil painting with masterful perspective, depicting Christ surrounded by angels.

Reddit
Neo-Classic Facade

Neo-Classic Facade

Exterior

A simple yet elegant exterior that belies the artistic treasures within.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While San Nicolò dei Greci is a smaller church, its beauty is best appreciated without the rush of crowds. Consider visiting during weekdays to experience its serene atmosphere and intricate details more intimately. Reddit

Inside the Sanctuary

The church, though modest from the outside, boasts a spectacular interior. Be prepared for potential scaffolding due to ongoing restoration, but even then, its artistic merit shines through. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Good light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

On September 11, St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in lower Manhattan was reduced to rubble. The church has since been rebuilt at Ground Zero and stands as a shrine and symbol of resilience, with icons depicting the people and history of the 9/11 attacks. #news #nyc
@cbsnews
42.1K likes • 468.6K views

📸 Capture the Details

The interior is small but spectacular; take your time to photograph the intricate details. Reddit :iphone:

🙏 Respectful Visit

As a holy place, dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor during your visit. :pray:

2023 Parrocchia San Nicolò dei Greci - Martorana
chiesa_della_martorana
27 likes • 705 views
Chiesa Di San Nicolò Dei Greci Detta Martonara - Palermo ✨
aparishh_
21 likes • 129 views

🌊 Sea Views Nearby

Enjoy lovely views of the church from the Molo Audace pier. Reddit :ocean:

✨ Restoration in Progress

Scaffolding may be present due to restoration, but the church remains stunning. Reddit

Chiesa di San Nicolò dei Greci, detta Martorana
aparishh
33 likes • 469 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Details

The interior is small but spectacular; take your time to photograph the intricate details. Reddit :iphone:

🙏 Respectful Visit

As a holy place, dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor during your visit. :pray:

🌊 Sea Views Nearby

Enjoy lovely views of the church from the Molo Audace pier. Reddit :ocean:

✨ Restoration in Progress

Scaffolding may be present due to restoration, but the church remains stunning. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(202 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find San Nicolò dei Greci to be a small but spectacular Greek Orthodox church with a stunning interior, particularly its iconostasis and ceiling artwork. While the exterior is simple, the inside offers a rich artistic and spiritual experience, even with ongoing restoration. It's a highly recommended stop for its beauty and historical significance. Reddit

"Had the divine pleasure as a Greek Orthodox Christian from Australia to visit St. Nicholas last October when my wife and I were on vacation in Italy.
Located on the central Trieste waterfront in the heart of the city with sweeping views of the sea
The last time I had visited this church was in 1990 so it was quite emotional for me to revisit this holy place and light a candle for the spirit of the loved ones who have left us and say a pray for all. Highly recommended for a visit by fellow Orthodox Christians and other denomination Christians or even those that may want to join the Orthodox faith."

Dennis Achtypis

"The beautiful Greek Orthodox Church of San Nicolò, built in 1787."

Francine Laura

"The outside of the building is simple facade but inside will amaze. There was even scaffolding due to restoration and it was still stunning. It will be a quick stop as the church is small but spectacular."

Wanderers Compass Travel Blog

What People Like

Spectacular interior art
Iconostasis and ceiling canvas
Spiritual atmosphere

What People Dislike

Exterior simplicity
Potential restoration scaffolding

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

San Nicolò dei Greci is located on the central Trieste waterfront, easily accessible by foot from the city center. It's situated on Riva Tre Novembre street, near the sea promenade. Reddit

Street parking can be challenging in this central area. It's recommended to use public transport or a taxi, or to find parking in a nearby paid garage. Reddit

Yes, nice views of the church can be seen from the Molo Audace pier, offering a picturesque perspective of its location. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to San Nicolò dei Greci is typically free, as it is an active place of worship. Donations are always appreciated. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially as it's a functioning church. It's advisable to check local listings or inquire beforehand, particularly if visiting on a holiday. Reddit

While the main floor is generally accessible, some older churches may have limitations. It's best to contact the church directly for specific accessibility information. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Take your time to admire the interior's artistic details, especially the iconostasis and the ceiling canvas. Reflect on its history and significance as a Greek Orthodox church. Reddit

No, San Nicolò dei Greci is described as a small but spectacular church, making it a relatively quick but impactful visit. Reddit

The church is noted for its Neo-Classic style on the exterior, while the interior showcases rich Byzantine and Venetian influences in its art and design. Reddit

Photography is usually permitted, but it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Avoid flash photography. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Focus on the intricate details of the iconostasis, the dramatic ceiling painting, and the overall ambiance of the nave. The exterior also offers good shots, especially from the nearby pier. Reddit

The church has windows that provide natural light, which can be quite beautiful for photography, especially in the afternoon. Reddit

Given the potentially lower light conditions inside, consider using a wider aperture and a higher ISO if your camera allows, or a tripod if permitted for sharper images. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

San Nicolò dei Greci is a smaller church, making it a manageable visit for families. While the religious art might not captivate very young children for long, the striking ceiling painting and the detailed iconostasis can be points of interest. It's a good opportunity to introduce children to different forms of religious architecture and art in a peaceful setting. Reddit

Keep the visit concise and focus on the most visually engaging elements. Explain that it's a special place for prayer and reflection. The proximity to the sea promenade also offers a chance for children to enjoy the outdoors before or after the church visit.

🙏 Devout Orthodox Christians

For Greek Orthodox Christians, San Nicolò dei Greci offers a profound connection to their faith and heritage while traveling. It's a place to light candles, offer prayers, and feel a sense of spiritual continuity. Reddit

The church's authentic Orthodox iconography and liturgical arrangement provide a familiar and comforting environment. Visiting can be an emotional experience, especially for those with family ties to the Greek Orthodox community. It's highly recommended for a meaningful spiritual stop. Reddit

🏛️ Art and History Enthusiasts

San Nicolò dei Greci is a gem for those interested in religious art and history. The Neo-Classic exterior is a prelude to the rich Byzantine and Venetian influences found within its art, particularly the ceiling canvas and the iconostasis. Reddit

Appreciate the anonymous Greek painter's work and the contributions of artists like Cesare dell’Acqua. The church's history as a center for the Greek Orthodox community in Trieste adds another layer of historical significance to your visit. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History and Art

San Nicolò dei Greci, built in 1787, stands as a testament to the Greek Orthodox community's presence in Trieste. Its Neo-Classic exterior, while simple, gives way to an interior rich with artistic and spiritual significance. The church is divided into three liturgical spaces: the presbytery with small apses, the nave for believers, and balconies for the gynaeceum and choir. Reddit

The heart of the church's visual splendor is its magnificent iconostasis, a beautifully crafted screen that separates the sacred presbytery from the nave. This intricate work is adorned with icons, guiding the faithful and adding to the spiritual atmosphere. Above, the nave is crowned by a grand canvas portraying Christ in Glory, a masterful oil painting that draws the eye with its impressive perspective and classical architectural elements. This artwork is attributed to an anonymous Greek painter influenced by the Ionic Academy and the Venetian School. Reddit

Complementing these central pieces are large paintings by Cesare dell’Acqua on the side walls, depicting scenes like the Preaching of John the Baptist and Christ among the Children. Even with potential scaffolding for restoration, the church's artistic heritage and its role as a spiritual haven for the Orthodox community remain profoundly evident. Reddit

Experiencing the Orthodox Faith

For Greek Orthodox Christians, visiting San Nicolò dei Greci can be a deeply emotional and spiritual experience, connecting them to their heritage and faith abroad. It offers a space to light a candle, say a prayer for loved ones, and feel a sense of belonging. Reddit

The church's layout, with its distinct liturgical spaces and the prominent iconostasis, is characteristic of Orthodox worship. The presence of icons, including the central icon of Saint Nicolò and those marking current festivities, reinforces the visual language of Orthodox tradition. The ceiling canvas, depicting Christ in glory, serves as a constant reminder of the divine presence. Reddit

Even for those not of the Orthodox faith, a visit provides an opportunity to appreciate a different facet of Christian art and practice. The church's serene atmosphere, combined with its artistic treasures, makes it a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in religious history and art. Reddit

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