Church of Saint Nicholas (Zante) - Zakynthos island
The Church of Saint Nicholas (Agios Nikolaos Molos) stands in the capital of the Greek island of Zakynthos, in the central square of Solomos. It is the oldest Venetian building in the square and the only one to survive the severe earthquake and fire of 1953.
The Church of St. Nicholas (Agios Nikolaos of Molos) was built in 1561, making it the oldest Venetian building in Zakynthos. The church was built in the style of a single-nave, stone basilica and in former times it was also the lighthouse of the port. In 1953, however, a very strong and devastating earthquake struck the Greek island of Zakynthos, devastating many villages and towns. The capital of Zakynthos was razed to the ground and large fires broke out after the earthquake. Residential houses as well as ancient and culturally important buildings were destroyed. After the earthquake, only three buildings remained standing in the city - the Cathedral of St. Dionysus, the National Bank building and the Church of St. Nicholas.
After 1953, the church was renovated in order to preserve as much as possible the authenticity of this magnificent Venetian building. It is also recommended to see the interior of the church decorated with murals, icons and other religious jewels. One of the first priests invited to this church was the monk Dionysios, later a saint. Out of respect for St. Dionysios, his pontificals (priestly vestments) are still preserved in the church. During the Easter holidays, on Good Friday, it is from the church of St. Nicholas that the procession comes out.
St. Nicholas Church is located on the south side of Solomos Square, close to the city's harbour. The central and largest square of Zakynthos was named in honour of a poet named Dionysios Solomos, who is, among other things, the author of the lyrics of the Greek national anthem.
The church was originally built on a small island connected to the town by a bridge. However, over time, landfills filled in the existing moat and connected the islet to the rest of the city of Zante. After the devastating earthquake and extensive fires of 1953, construction debris and other burnt material was piled up from the town into the sea, and it is reported that this move extended the harbour quay by some 3 to 5 metres.
More touristic destinations of Zakynthos
Most favourite sights of Zakynthos:Â Monastery of Anafonitria, Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa, Church of Saint Dionysius, Church of Saint Nicholas (Zante), Skinari Windmill, Ruins of Bochali Castle
Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Zakynthos.
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