Agios Thomas Chapel
Near Ancient Tanagra and Asopos Village
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From: staniates
Sun Sep 24 06:43:00 -0700 2006
Historical chapel near Asopos River. It is sacred to Saint Thomas, genius Loci of the village. Tradition wants the Saint to protect the villagers from the bubonic plague that had spread the district. So they honored him by giving his name to the village. In Greek: Ayios Thomas. According to Leiden University research, the chapel is considered mid Byzantine (12 century). the cupola is posterior. Ancient Tanagra lies opposite to the chapel.

According to Schachter McGill, the chapel is considered first christian basilica of the 10th century. By the time Byzantine Empire reconquered Boeotia from slaves, starts a period of steady growth of rural population. The small hamlets take the role of ancient Tanagra. During crusades the district pases under the commandership of a Frank lord who converts the chapel into feudal chateau. (13th century)
Celebration at Sunday after Greek Orthodox Easter.
 



 


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