Early Christian basilica in Agia Paraskevi
In the village of Agia Paraskevi, Kozani, you will encounter the remains of an important Early Christian monument dating from the 6th century AD: the Early Christian Basilica of Agia Paraskevi. A fascinating local tradition is linked to its discovery, telling of a villager who repeatedly saw the Saint in his dreams, urging him to search for her lost icon. After sharing this vision with his wife and fellow villagers, they joined him in the search, which eventually led to excavations revealing both the icon and the remains of a significant basilica. As you explore the site, you will be impressed by the basilica’s remarkable floor, where rare mosaics have survived featuring plant and animal motifs, as well as depictions of fish, fishermen, and geometric designs that reflect the artistic skill of the period. Around the church, three annexes have also been identified, one of which served as a baptistery with a built baptismal font. Next to the Early Christian basilica, you will find the newer church that serves the local community, while beneath it lies the crypt of the Saint. A visit here offers you a unique journey through faith, tradition, and history, bringing together a centuries-old story and one of the region’s most significant Early Christian monuments.
