Aghioi Akindinoi: The Historic Church in Antimachia
In the village of Antimachia on the island of Kos, the Church of Aghioi Akindinoi stands as a testament to the region’s rich religious and historical heritage. Celebrated annually on November 2nd, this modest yet significant church is dedicated to the Five Saints Akindinoi—Akindinos, Aftonius, Pegasios, Elpidophoros, and Anempodistos.
Historical Background
The Church of Aghioi Akindinoi is located on a low rise, just north of the main axis of the local airstrip. It is a simple, single-nave building with a semi-cylindrical apse, embodying the serene simplicity of traditional ecclesiastical architecture. Notably, a base from an ancient water basin supports a rectangular slab to the right of the entrance, adding to the church’s historical charm.
The current church was built during the period of the Dodecanese’s integration into Greece, commissioned by the local community leader Akindinos Mavros, who owned land in the area. The site previously hosted an older church that was destroyed in the earthquakes of 1926 and 1933. Remnants of this earlier structure, including substantial collapsed sections of the apse and walls, create the impression of a once larger, perhaps dual-aisled, church.
Architectural Features
The church employs robust lime mortar with crushed bricks, a common building material of its time. The design and construction suggest that the earlier Byzantine-era church was likely substantial in size. An unadorned early Christian column supporting the altar table features striking “veins,” hinting at the church’s historical depth.
The name Akindinos has historical roots on Kos, dating back to the early Christian period. An inscription referring to “Akindynos of Kos” is displayed at the Heraklion Museum in Crete, highlighting the ancient connection to this saintly name. The group of five saints includes Akindinos, Aftonius, Pegasios, Elpidophoros, and Anempodistos, though the specific reasons for their collective veneration under the name Akindinoi remain unclear.
Restoration and Preservation
The original church was from the post-Byzantine period, with an initial semi-circular vaulted roof. Large sections of this roof are still visible on the exterior western side of the church. Following the severe damage caused by the earthquakes in the early 20th century, the church was rebuilt in 1945, ensuring its continued presence and service to the local community.
Today, Aghioi Akindinoi is cherished by the residents of Antimachia and attracts visitors interested in the island’s historical and religious legacy. Its annual celebration on November 2nd is a deeply revered occasion, reflecting the enduring faith and tradition of the local people.
Visiting Aghioi Akindinoi
For those interested in exploring this historical gem, the Church of Aghioi Akindinoi offers a glimpse into Kos’s rich ecclesiastical history. Its modest yet enduring architecture and the story of its restoration provide a meaningful connection to the island’s past and its vibrant local culture
