One of the most popular tourist centres of Athens is undoubtedly the oldest district of the city, Plaka, located at the foot of the famous Acropolis. It is an incredibly colourful place with labyrinths of narrow cobbled streets, old mansions in neoclassical style, plenty of souvenir shops and cosy cafes, many museums and beautiful temples.
Among the most popular and interesting sights of Plaka is one of the many cross-domed temples of Athens - the Russian Church of St. Nicodemus, also known as the Church of the Holy Trinity (or simply "Russian Church"). The church is located in a small cosy square near the Parliament building at 21 Filellinon Street.
The Russian Church of Saint Nicodemus is one of the largest medieval temples of Athens that has survived to this day. The church was founded back in 1030 by Stephanos Lykodimos, who actually financed its construction, and was the main catholicon of the monastery located here. However, it is worth noting that the church, which was heavily damaged as a result of earthquakes, as well as during military operations, received its modern appearance after it was purchased by the Russian Emperor Nicholas I in 1845, who allocated funds for its reconstruction. The decoration of the interior of the church was entrusted to the famous German artist Ludwig Thiersch. The huge impressive bell tower, located to the left of the church building, was erected somewhat later by decree of the next Emperor of the Russian Empire - Alexander II.
During archaeological research it was revealed that the church was built on the ruins of an early Christian temple, built in turn on the ruins of Roman baths.
Today the Church of St. Nicodemus is an important historical and architectural monument of the Byzantine era and is administered by the Russian Orthodox Church.
