Agia Paraskevi Byzantine Church

Alright, art lovers, listen up – we’ve got the inside scoop on the Agia Paraskevi Byzantine Church, and let me tell you, it’s a pretty big deal.

Located in the village of Geroskipou, this 9th-century church is one of only two five-domed, three-aisled, barrel-vaulted basilicas on the whole island. Translation?

This place is a significant example of Byzantine architecture, so prepare to be wowed.

And that’s not even the best part – the interior wall paintings are seriously stunning. We’re discussing different periods, from the 8th to the 15th centuries. 

Yeah, these mural masters knew how to work their magic.

And get this – during restoration works, a monochrome reddish cross was revealed that’s of an earlier type. We’re talking about the Early Christian period here, until the 8th-9th century (yeah, it’s that old).

So come down to the Agia Paraskevi Byzantine Church and see why it’s such a big deal. You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking artwork and glimpse the past.

Plus, you’ll have some serious bragging rights when you tell your friends you saw one of only two five-domed, three-aisled, barrel-vaulted basilicas on the whole island.

Alright, art fans, buckle up – we’ve got some severe icon action at the Agia Paraskevi Byzantine Church. 

And I’m not just talking about frescoes (although those are pretty cool, too). No, we’re talking about a portable, double-sided icon that’s seriously significant.

Dating back to the 15th century (yeah, you read that right), this icon is basically like a time machine in your hands. 

One side shows the Virgin Mary looking holy and majestic, while the other depicts the infamous Crucifixion scene. Talk about some severe symbolism, am I right?