Ruins of the Old Metropolitan Church - Sozopol Page - InfoMap

Ruins of the Old Metropolitan Church - Sozopol

Historical Building Ruins

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The medieval basilica-style church is situated within the historical district of Sozopol. Compelling evidence suggests that this ancient sanctuary served as the ecclesiastical seat of the Sozopol Bishopric from the 10th to the 17th centuries. The church's foundation stands atop residential structures dating back to the classical and Hellenistic eras of Apollonia, ranging from the 5th to the 2nd century BC. In the 9th century, the temple faced destruction due to a fire, but it was reconstructed and adorned with frescoes in the late 11th century, accompanied by the development of a monastery complex in its vicinity. Archaeological findings and its strategic location link this sacred complex to the city monastery 'St. John,' renowned for its springs. Over the centuries, the church underwent substantial transformations. Between the late 11th and late 14th centuries, significant reconstruction efforts reshaped its original basilica design into a cross-domed structure. Further renovations occurred between the late 14th and early 17th centuries. Unfortunately, at the end of the 17th century, Turkish authorities ordered the church's destruction, leading to its cessation of religious functions. Within the church's premises and specific areas, more than 250 artifacts from the 10th to the 14th centuries have been unearthed. Additionally, during the late 14th century, its southern nave was repurposed into a monastic ossuary. Architecturally, the church follows the Constantinople model, characterized by a cross-domed layout measuring 36 x 13.35 meters. The nave was divided into three sections using rectangular masonry pylons measuring 0.9 x 1.1 meters. The western facade featured three entrances, while the floor boasted a mosaic with a palette of red, black, and white. Archaeological discoveries include traces of a 1.8-meter diameter piscina (a basin for baptism) and remnants of an intricately adorned marble altar arch. The church's interior was once adorned with opulent marble architectural elements, mosaic floors, and frescoes, setting it apart from other medieval churches in the city. Although the comprehensive study of this temple remains ongoing, it is widely believed that it occupied a pivotal role as the central place of worship connected to the episcopal headquarters in Sozopol.

Inserted: 12-09-2023 16:09:31

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