I recently had the opportunity to visit the Monastery of Dafni, an extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Haidari on the outskirts of Mount Egaleo. The monastery’s impressive architecture and intricate mosaic decorations make it an exceptional monument of Byzantine art.
Upon arrival, I was immediately struck by the fascinating history of the monastery, which was founded in the 6th century on the ruins of the temple of Dafnaeus Apollo. The reuse of the Ionic columns from the ancient temple added an intriguing element to the site. Although only one of these columns remains today, the others can be found in London, having been transported by Lord Elgin.
The architecture of the monastery’s catholic church, which dates back to the late 11th century, captivated my attention. It belongs to the octagonal cruciform church type, characterized by a central nave space enlarged by eight columns placed closer to the walls. This unique arrangement showcases the complex octagonal or ‘continental’ type of Middle Byzantine church architecture.
Exploring the monastery, I marveled at the well-preserved mosaics from the Komnenoi Dynasty (circa 1100). The striking depiction of Christ the Almighty inside the dome is a prime example of the austere and priestly style of the Macedonian period.
The monastery’s turbulent history, including the sacking by Crusaders in 1205 and the subsequent cession to the Cistercian monks, is fascinating. The French monks rebuilt the exonarthex, added an enclosure, and made other changes until their expulsion by the Turks in 1458. The monastery was eventually deserted, with restoration work only commencing in 1888.
In conclusion, my visit to the Monastery of Dafni was an unforgettable experience. The beautiful architecture, intricate mosaics, and rich history made it a must-see destination for anyone interested in Byzantine art and historical sites. The serene atmosphere and impressive surroundings provided a perfect backdrop for reflection and appreciation of the past. I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to this outstanding monument of Byzantine art.
