Saint Spiridonas Orthodox Church, Argostoli

Before the 1953 earthquake St. Spiridonas Church was one of three in the local community,  but after the disaster it remained the only one. Now rebuilt, it houses ancient icons, frescoes and a wooden, hand carved altar screen.

On September 24th each year, an icon of the Virgin Mary is held high above the crowds, as it is paraded from St. Trapano church, the other side of Argostoli bridge, and through the streets. It is displayed inside the church for about ten days so everyone gets a chance to pay their respects.

This precious icon is well travelled, as it started its life on the island of Kythira, near Crete, over 250 years ago. After many invasions Kythira was under attack again, but this time the islanders had warning of the approach and managed to escape in their fishing boats. All, that is, except one - a cripple who couldn’t walk.  He prayed night and day at the icon of the Virgin Mary, asking her to save him. Miraculously, his prayers were answered and he awoke one morning to find he could walk. He escaped just in the nick of time and the icon found its way to Kefalonia where it has been revered ever since.

There is an English-speaking Orthodox priest available for those who are not fluent in Greek.

An Orthodox Greek Wedding takes about 1½ hours, and photographs will be taken throughout the service and afterwards, outside the church. Naturally, if you have a preference for a different church, we will be happy to accommodate your wishes.

Greek stephania and bombonieres are essentials, plus flowers to decorate the church.

The following documents are required:

• Valid 10-year passport each and a legalised photocopy
• A full-length birth certificate and legalised photocopy
• Certificate of No Impediment (see below)

To be able to have an Orthodox wedding ceremony one of you must be baptised into the Orthodox religion and the other partner must be a Christian.

Before a confirmed date can be given a Certificate of No Impediment will need to be completed with your local Orthodox Priest and sent to the Bishop of Kefalonia.  Once his permission has been granted, the rest of the wedding procedures can commence.