Church Birth of Christ (Christos)

Skopelos Church Christ Birth, Skopelos church Christos, Skopelos churches, Skopelos Sightseeings, Skopelos Religion, Skopelos culture, Skopelos Island, Northern Sporades, Greece

BIRTH OF CHRIST

SKOPELOS CHURCHES

The Church of the Birth of Christ is located in Skopelos town’s most historic district. The specific church is commonly known as Christos. This significant Church also serves as the town’s cathedral.

Skopelos Church Christos’ construction can be traced back to the year 1765, marking its establishment as a historical place of worship. Beyond its age, this church holds a treasured collection of artifacts, prominently featuring a dedicated area for preserving icons and relics that were originally housed in the temple of Saint Athanassios in the Castle. Additionally, the church safeguards and reveres the relics associated with Saint Riginos, thus enhancing its historical and spiritual significance.

The remarkable structure of the church is a blend of architectural styles, featuring the dome of the cruciform square church along with a triple basilica. Suspended from the central dome is a wooden arrangement adorned with dual-sided icons portraying the figures of the Apostles and the Prophets. In addition to the primary dome, there exists a secondary, smaller dome positioned over the sanctuary.

Right before the sanctuary, there lie meticulously maintained crypts, concealed beneath sturdy marble slabs, traditionally designated for the safekeeping of the revered church clergy’s remains from days of yore. Scattered throughout the churchyard, one will encounter the resting places of esteemed bishops of a bygone era. Furthermore, it’s noteworthy that within the church tower, you can find remnants of an ancient Byzantine church, further highlighting the rich tapestry of historical layers embedded within this sacred locale.

Another element that contributes to the church’s significance is the presence of a bell within its tower, a gift from Alexios Orlof. He presented this bell to the town of Skopelos as an acknowledgment of their contribution to the Cesme naval battle in 1770, a pivotal event resulting in the Turkish fleet’s defeat.