Zakynthos Agios Dionysios Church

Location: Town

The church of Agios (Saint) Dionysios is located in Zakynthos Town, a few steps from the port. Dedicated to Agios Dionysios, the patron saint of the island, it is the largest church on the island and a place that bears great cultural significance for the locals.

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The first temple to honor the saint was built in the 18th century but it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1893. The construction works for the church in its current form began in 1925 and lasted 23 years. It remained intact during the destructive earthquake of 1953 due to its strong structure and the locals considered it a miracle.

The church is a three-aisled basilica and Corinthian columns support its roof. Outside the church, the 40-meter tall bell tower that is the signature landmark of the port will catch your attention. Experts have noticed similarities in the structure of this church and the Basilica of Saint Mark in Venice.
The church is part of the building complex of the monastery of Agios Dionysios, along with cells and the building that houses the church's museum.

Inside the church, you will get to see exceptional works of art, including handmade icons, murals depicting scenes from the saint's life, an impressive altarpiece, stained-glass windows and golden chandeliers. The mummified relics of the saint are being kept inside the church in a silver-plated reliquary.

Religious ceremonies and festivities take place to honor Agios Dionysios every year and the church celebrates on December 17th.