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GREECE CRETE LASITHI ELOUNDA POROS

2024-10-28

isthmus joining Elounda with Spinalonga Early Christian basilica

At the eastern side of the isthmus joining Elounda with Spinalonga are the remains of an Early Christian basilica of the late 5th century. In the middle aisle, very remarkable mosaics are preserved.

Early Christian basilica Early Christian basilica

The black and white mosaic pavement combines geometric and natural motifs, including lively depictions of dolphins. Two inscriptions name the donors, suggesting from the style of writing a date somewhere in the 4th century. It has therefore been suggested that the church was built in two phases, the mosaics belonging to the earlier, smaller church.

mosaic pavement