Panagia Ekatontapyliani (Church of 100 Doors)

Ekatontapyliani

The beautiful and justifiably respected Church of 100 Doors (Panagia Ekatontapyliani) in Parikia, Paros Greece is one of the oldest and best preserved ancient churches in the world, the oldest Orthodox Christian church in continuous operation and a splendid example of Byzantine architecture and tradition.

The church, as it survives today, was built in two phases. It was first constructed in the 4th century by Emperor Constantine fulfilling his mother's, St. Helen, vow to virgin Mary after finding the holy cross. Two centuries later, Emperor Justinian renovated the original basilica, built the domes and enlarged the original structure.

The Church was built on top of an ancient Greek temple (possibly in honor of Hercules) and extended on the ruins of a Roman Gymnasium. As it was the custom, pieces of the preexisting structures were used in the making of the Ekatontapyliani and visitors can clearly see reused ancient marbles, columns and reliefs both in the main building and in the courtyard.

The Church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The most important icon of Virgin Mary displayed at center of the church screen was brought to Paros after the fall of Constantinople (1453 AD). In the 18th century the screen icons were covered with decorated silver plates as it is accustomed in the Greek Orthodox tradition.

During your visit do not miss the splendid adjoining Baptistry (part of the 1st phase of the Church.) The marble cross shaped basin in its center is a magnificent work of art, while the surviving pieces of mosaic on the floor and the ancient marble used in the construction – are testimonials of the long history of Paros and Christianity.

At the Church courtyard there is a Byzantine Museum, with artifacts and icons representing the long history of the Church, more than 1700 years . Also in the courtyard one can see the ruins of the ancient Greek temple and the Roman Gymnasium or visit the small shop with souvenirs and books related to the Church and the Greek Orthodox faith.

Many myths and legends are associated with Ekatontapyliani church like the one with patron saint of Paros, Agia Theoktisti who, after her escape from the pirates around 1400 AD, found refuge in the church where she lived alone and died. Her footprint can still be seen on the main temple floor.

• Visit their website: www.ekatontapyliani.org