Ιερός Μητροπολιτικός Ναός Κοιμήσεως Θεοτόκου

"The Cathedral (Metropolis) of Aegina stands as an iconic symbol, with its distinctive twin bell towers crowned by a clock that greets visitors from afar and as they approach the port of Aegina. This historic cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, Saint Dionysios of Aegina, and Saint John the Theologian, holds a prominent place in Greece's modern history as the first cathedral of Free Greece. Constructed in 1806 with funding from the Holy Monastery of Chrysoleontissa, the Metropolis served as a significant gathering place during pivotal moments in Greece's early nationhood. It hosted the inaugural events for Governor Ioannis Capodistrias in 1828, marking a crucial chapter in the country's post-revolutionary era. Today, stepping inside the cathedral transports visitors back to the 1800s, evoking the spirit of Aegina's time as the first capital of the modern Greek state. Located at the heart of Aegina town, the Metropolis is surrounded by other historic landmarks like the Eynardios Teaching School and the Municipal Theater, further enhancing the immersive experience of stepping into Greece's past. The cathedral's interior houses valuable historic treasures, including a marble iconostasis, frescoes, and embedded icons. Don't miss the wooden pew of Governor Ioannis Capodistrias, preserved near the Despotic Throne, which offers a tangible link to the cathedral's rich historical legacy. The Metropolis's impressive bell tower, designed by S. Cleanthis and Ed. Schaubert, adds to the cathedral's grandeur, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the cultural and historical tapestry of Aegina and its pivotal role in shaping modern Greece."