Greece - Veria, Old Metropolis

The Old Metropolis/Cathedral of Veria (officially transliterated Veroia) is one of the largest mid-Byzantine in the Balkans, which was erected between 1070 and 1080 by Nikitas, the then bishop of the city. It is an architectural masterpiece of three aisled basilicas with a timber roof. This impressive church shows the prosperity of the town during the middle Byzantine period. The church was dedicated to Saint Paul. During the Ottoman period of the city it became an Ottoman mosque (Hünkar Mosque).

The distinctive features that bring added uniqueness, specific architectural, artistic and historical value to the Old Cathedral is the incorporation of early Christian templates that gives the impression of a premier temple compared with the relevant monuments of the same period, as well as the wall painting decoration that presents some of the greatest painting works of the 12th, 13th and 14th century. For this reason it is regarded as the gem of Byzantine Veria.

After the completion of the restoration works in 2016, the church is accessible to the public again, offering a unique tour of the Byzantine history of Veria.