St. Spyridon Church is a Greek Orthodox church located in the heart of Corfu Town, near the Liston and the Spianada Square. The church was built in the 1580s and is dedicated to Saint Spyridon, who is the patron saint of the island. The church was designed by the architect Michele Sanmicheli, who was also responsible for the design of many other buildings in Venice and other parts of Italy.
The church is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, with a tall bell tower and a red dome. Inside, the church is adorned with beautiful frescoes, intricate wood carvings, and gold leaf decorations. The architecture of the St. Spyridon Church is a blend of Byzantine and Venetian styles, reflecting the island's long history of influences from both cultures. The church has a large central dome and two bell towers, which are typical features of Byzantine architecture. The facade of the church, however, is more reminiscent of Venetian architecture, with its arches and decorative elements. The interior of the church is adorned with beautiful frescoes and icons, some of which date back to the 16th century. The marble floors and columns also add to the overall grandeur and beauty of the church.
The church of St. Spyridon is home to many important relics and icons that are highly revered by the Orthodox Christian faithful. The most significant relic in the church is the right hand of St. Spyridon, which is kept in a silver reliquary on the main altar. According to legend, the hand has performed many miracles over the centuries, including healing the sick and protecting the island from invaders.
Regarding the remains of St. Spyridon, according to tradition, they were brought to Corfu from Constantinople in the late 15th century, during the Ottoman invasion. The saint's relics were first taken to the nearby island of Vido, and then brought to Corfu town, where they were kept in the old church of St. Spyridon.
In 1590, a new church was built to house the saint's relics, and the remains were transferred there in a solemn procession. Since then, the church has been a major pilgrimage site for Orthodox Christians, who come from all over the world to venerate the saint's relics and seek his intercession.
The church is also home to several important icons, including an icon of St. Spyridon himself, which is located on the main altar. The icon depicts the saint holding the Gospel in his left hand and raising his right hand in a gesture of blessing. Another important icon in the church is that of the Virgin Mary, which is located above the entrance to the main sanctuary.
Other notable relics in the church include a piece of the Holy Cross, a fragment of the robe worn by the Virgin Mary, and relics of other saints and martyrs. The church also has a large collection of liturgical objects, including chalices, censers, and vestments, many of which are intricately decorated with precious metals and jewels.
The church is open to visitors for prayer and worship, but visitors should dress appropriately and be respectful of the sacred space.
You can visit St. Spyridon Church following our standard routes:
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