The Ministry of Culture is moving forward with the stabilization, conservation, restoration and enhancement of the historic Church of Agios Nikolaos Rangavas, in Plaka. The project includes structural restoration, conservation of its decorative elements, and modernization of the church’s electromechanical systems.

Addressing the monument’s structural problems

Experts have identified structural issues caused by aging materials, seismic activity, human interventions and increased moisture. The masonry is in moderate condition, the columns show cracking, and the existing electrical and mechanical installations are severely outdated.

The project will involve:

• Structural reinforcement
• Conservation of frescoes and stone elements
• Improvements to the surrounding area
• Comprehensive upgrades to water, drainage, heating, lighting, sound, and security systems

Special emphasis will be placed on addressing moisture damage that threatens the monument’s authentic structure and decoration.

A Monument with Deep History

The church is one of the most important surviving Byzantine monuments in Athens. It stands in the Acropolis neighborhood and is traditionally linked to the family of the Byzantine emperor Michael I Rangavas.

Located at the intersection of Prytaneiou and Epicharmou streets, the church was founded around the mid-11th century.

Four main building phases can be identified:

1. 11th century – The original cross-in-square domed church
2. Late 17th century – Reconstruction of the eastern side
3. 19th century – Additions including the chapel of Agia Paraskevi and the western hall
4. After 1917 – Addition of the bell tower

Historic drawings and photographs, including works by James Skene (1844) and Frédéric Boissonnas (early 20th century), document the monument’s evolving form.

Restoration Efforts Over the Last Century

• 1979–1980: Partial restoration of the northern façade and full restoration of the octagonal Athenian-style dome. During this work, an inscription referring to Leon Ragkavas was found on a column of the dome, dating to the mid-11th century—an important clue to the church’s founder.
• 1999–2000: Landscaping of the surrounding area
• 2007, 2013, 2017: Local roof repairs to address rainwater damage
• 2019: Restoration of the dome after it was damaged by lightning in 2016

The church also contains later decorative murals and several Western-style iconographic elements.

Mendoni: “A landmark of the city’s uninterrupted history”

Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni stated:

“The Church of Agios Nikolaos Rangavas is an outstanding Byzantine monument and a testament to the continuous history of Athens. Located within the protected zone of the Acropolis archaeological site and surrounded by monuments of the northern slope, its restoration enriches the cultural route that showcases the historical continuity of the capital. At the same time, this emblematic example of Middle Byzantine architecture becomes part of the important Christian monuments of Athens, which are often overshadowed by the dominant presence of Antiquity.”