25 Jun Church of Agios Nikolaos Molos in Zakynthos
The church of Agios Nikolaos Molos in Zakynthos, Greece: The church of Agios Nikolaos Molos is located at the southern side of Solomos Square, just above the port of Zakynthos Town. This is the oldest Venetian building of the square and the only that survived the severe earthquake and fire of 1953.
Originally the church had been constructed on a small islet connected to the town with a bridge, but gradually the landfills at the port made this islet part of the town. The church was constructed in 1561 by the Cooperation of Sailormen of Zakynthos, who also invited monk (later Saint) Dionysius as the first priest there. Honoring Saint Dionysius, his pontificals (priest clothes) are still hosted in the church. The style is a single-aisled basilica, made of stone.
In the past years, the bell tower hosted the lighthouse of the port. After 1953, the church was renovated keeping its authentic Venetian characteristics. This is where the Procession of Holy Friday starts from during Easter time in Zakynthos Town.