Dedicated to the Annunciation of the Mother of God, The Athens Metropolitan Cathedral was built between 1842 and 1862, its three-aisled, domed basilica overlooking a street with the same name. Located a short distance from Syntagma square, its design and construction was enhanced by the many famous architects who contributed their time and talents; Hanssen, Zezos, Boulanger, Kalkos and others. Additionally, numerous fine artists worked on both the exterior and interior decoration of the temple. Architectural materials and decorative pieces from derelict, byzantine churches and churches razed for archaeological reasons were also used in the Cathedral’s construction.
Since its inauguration, the Athens Cathedral has remained the site of many significant ceremonies, from the weddings of Kings, to funerals of important political and social figures. Following the massive earthquake that shook Athens in 1999, the Cathedral has been undergoing continuous maintenance and restoration. Services are therefore being temporarily held in the Church of St. Dionysius, in Kolonaki. The Cathedral houses the marble shrines containing the holy remnants of Agia Filothei and the Patriarch Gregorius V.
Source: www.athensattica.gr