An early Christian Basilica, identified with the church known from historical sources as the site of the tomb of Achilles, the Metropolitan Bishop of Larissa and miracle-working saint. It dates to the 6th century and is located at the highest point of the “Fortress” hill, the ancient and Byzantine citadel of Larissa.
When is the Early Christian Period?
The period from the 4th to the 7th century AD. It begins with the founding of Constantinople by Emperor Constantine the Great in 330 AD.
What is a Basilica?
A basilica is a type of building primarily used by the Romans. It is a large rectangular structure with a spacious central nave (central aisle) and two or more side aisles, separated by columns or pillars. Later, this architectural type was adopted by Christians for their first churches.
The Form of the Church and the Saint’s Tomb
It is a three-aisled, timber-roofed basilica, with a narthex (a long entrance hall) and an exonarthex (vestibule). Tombs were discovered inside and around the church, including an elaborate barrel-vaulted tomb with wall-painted decoration featuring large crosses, which is identified as the tomb of Saint Achilles. The association of the church with Saint Achilles is strengthened by the discovery of a wellhead bearing the inscription “Of Archbishop Achilles, this is his work,” as well as bricks inscribed with his name.
The History of the Church
The existence of the Basilica of Saint Achilles is confirmed until the mid-14th century, while its final collapse is linked to the construction of the Ottoman Bedesten (covered market) in the late 15th century. It was discovered in 1978 during works to construct the open-air “Tetra” (Wednesday) market.
