The Basilica of the “Three Churches”, Paros

One kilometre northeast of the Katapoliani and beside the Parikia–Naousa road, the Basilica of the “Three Churches” stands as one of the most important monuments of Byzantine Paros. The Ephorate of Antiquities of the Cyclades has set as an immediate priority the consolidation, conservation, arrangement, and enhancement of this emblematic Early Byzantine complex, which will contribute to the promotion of the island’s cultural identity as an organized and accessible archaeological site.

The toponym derives from the remains of three Post-Byzantine churches of the 17th century, which had been built over the ruins of the basilica using spolia from both the basilica itself and earlier structures. The three-aisled basilica, with a large semicircular apse and narthex, featured rich sculptural decoration, as evidenced by the marble architectural members displayed on the site and in the courtyard of the Katapoliani.
Excavations were carried out in 1961 and 1962 by Anastasios Orlandos, during which the basilica was brought to light. The extensive use of ancient material in its construction and the discovery—more generally in the area—of ancient sculptures, inscriptions, and architectural members, and especially an Ionic capital bearing a metrical inscription of the 4th century BC referring to the Parian poet Archilochus (7th century BC), provide strong evidence for the use of the site in antiquity.

In November 2024, a thorough archaeological cleaning was carried out in all areas and annexes of the basilica, resulting in the exposure of the floors, walls, and the surrounding area of the monument. This was followed by photogrammetric recording, topographic documentation, and aerial photography of the site. Research for the monument’s documentation is continuing in 2025, while studies for its consolidation, conservation, restoration, and enhancement are expected to be prepared for this unique Byzantine archaeological site.

DONATION OF THE NON-PROFIT CIVIL COMPANY AEGEAS

• Archaeological investigations and archaeological documentation of the monument.

Image source: Ephorate of Antiquities of Cyclades Archive