Chiesa Greco-Ortodossa di San Nicolo (Greek Orthodox Church of San Nicolo), Trieste

Chiesa Greco-Ortodossa di San Nicolo (Greek Orthodox Church of San Nicolo), Trieste

The Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Nicholas and the Holy Trinity was built on the seafront of Trieste in the 18th century. On August 2, 1782, the Greek Orthodox community was officially founded, and in 1784 began to build its church on the waterfront of the Old Port. The church, designed by architect Matteo Pertsch, was consecrated to San Nicolò (patron saint of sailors) and the Holy Trinity.

The building features Romanesque and Neoclassical architectural styles with a simple, plain facade topped with an unadorned triangular pediment. There are six full-length doric pilasters on the front. The church has twin square bell towers with balconies, a window, and a clock on each side.

Inside are marble floors, ornate chandeliers, a carved wooden pulpit, and an overwhelming crucifix. Icons and paintings are all over the walls and ceilings. Christ, the Virgin and Child, John the Baptist, other saints, and biblical scenes are depicted.

There are three liturgical areas. The presbytery has three apses, the bay, and two balconies for the gynaeceum (women's gallery) and the choir. The iconostasis splits the presbytery between priests and worshippers. The bay floor is of black and white marble. Saint Nicolo's candle-lit icon is in the center.

Christ in Glory, surrounded by an angelic host, covers the flat ceiling. The artist is unknown. Between the windows are figures of the Evangelists and Apostles. Cesare dell'Acqua's paintings The Sermon of John in the Dessert and Jesus Calling the Small Children to Him are on the side walls. Above the right door, Abraham is welcomed by angels.

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Chiesa Greco-Ortodossa di San Nicolo (Greek Orthodox Church of San Nicolo) on Map

Sight Name: Chiesa Greco-Ortodossa di San Nicolo (Greek Orthodox Church of San Nicolo)
Sight Location: Trieste, Italy (See walking tours in Trieste)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Trieste, Italy

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