Trapezon at Philotheou

Photographer

Horlbeck, Frank R.

Date

• June 16, 1994

Summary

• This photograph depicts the interior space of the trapezon or refectory (dining hall) at the Philotheou monastery. The dining hall dates back to the 16th century and still contains some frescos painted from the time of its construction (visible in the background). The monastery of Philotheou was founded in the 10th century by the Blessed Philotheos. Its benefactors included Nikephoros III Botaneates (1078-81), Palaiologan emperors Andronicus II, Andronicus III and John V, Stefan Dusan, Tsar Michael, Gregory Gikas, and others. The monastery has been renovated periodically. Major renovations were completed in 1540 with the help of the Georgian monarch Levan of Kakhetia and his son Alexander. The monastery suffered a devastating fire in 1871 and major repairs were done then as well. The catholicon (communal church) was rebuilt in 1746 with a painting program completed a few years later. Two side chapels (Holy Archangels - 1754, and Saint John the Baptist - 1776) and the tower in the west side of the belfry (1764) were also added in the 18th century.