Church of Saint Nicholas, Piraeus (must see)

The Church of Saint Nicholas is a significant religious landmark dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors. The current structure, completed in 1902, was designed by the renowned architect Ioannis Lazarimos in collaboration with P. Zizilas, showcasing a blend of neoclassical and Byzantine architectural styles. One of its most striking features is the grand three-column portico on the western and northern facades, inspired by the Ancient Corinthian Order. The portico, crafted from solid marble, features twelve ornate capitals, further enhancing the church's majestic presence.

The church's design follows the cross-in-square layout, with three domes—two smaller ones flanking the central elliptical dome, which is topped with a lantern. Inside, the entrance leads to an oblong narthex, where two wooden staircases ascend to the women’s quarters, which are roofed with domes and situated above the narthex. Flanking the western facade, two bell towers rise with two-level bases, topped by four-columned structures supporting marble decorations and small domes crowned with crosses.

Designated as a preserved historical monument, the Church of Saint Nicholas stands as a remarkable example of late 19th-century neoclassical architecture, embodying the deep connection between the people of Piraeus and the sea. Given its location near Greece’s busiest port, it has long served as a spiritual beacon for seafarers and maritime workers.

Beyond its architectural grandeur, the church holds deep religious significance, especially when it comes to the reverence for Saint Nicholas. The holy relics of Saint Nicholas, loaned from the Monastery of Saint Nicholas on Andros, are received in Piraeus with great honor and celebration. These relics are brought by sea, underscoring the enduring bond between the maritime community and their protector saint.

The Coast Guard vessel Agios Efstratios plays a role in the ceremonial transportation of these sacred relics, carrying them along with a delegation of Greek Orthodox prelates, including the Metropolitan of Syros, Tinos, Andros, Kea, Milos, and Mykonos, as well as the Abbot of the Monastery of Saint Nicholas in Apikia, Andros. This annual religious event further solidifies the church’s role as a spiritual and cultural cornerstone in the heart of Piraeus’ bustling port district.