⭐ Travel Guide for Island Crete ⛵, Greece❗ - Early Christian Basilica of Archangel Michael at Katsivelos Ancient Eleftherna

Early Christian Basilica of Eleftherna

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At Katsivelos in Ancient Eleftherna lie the remains of an imposing Early Christian basilica, constructed around 430–450 AD by Bishop Euphratas and dedicated to Archangel Michael. It is one of the most important Early Christian monuments on Crete.

The basilica stands within the archaeological site of Ancient Eleftherna and was constructed over the remains of an earlier Hellenistic sanctuary associated with the worship of Hermes and Aphrodite. Building material from earlier structures in the area was also reused in its construction.

The monument was a three-aisled basilica with a narthex. Two rows of columns separated the central nave from the side aisles, above which galleries may once have existed. Its interior was decorated with colourful mosaic floors featuring geometric and floral patterns. Large rectangular slabs covered the central nave, while the sanctuary had more elaborate marble decoration.

Of particular importance is the mosaic dedicatory inscription in the narthex. It identifies the founder as Euphratas, the first known bishop of Eleftherna, who participated in the Fourth Ecumenical Council at Chalcedon in 451 AD. The inscription also confirms that the basilica was dedicated to Archangel Michael.

Tombs mainly dating from the 7th century have been uncovered south of the church. West of its entrance, archaeologists discovered a large 5th-century building complex, interpreted as the bishop’s residence, together with bathing facilities.

Two more Early Christian basilicas have been identified in the wider area of Eleftherna: one at Agios Markos and another near the Church of Christ the Saviour.