The Church of Panagia Sissiotissa, found near the end of De Bosset Bridge, is a Byzantine-design church (with a crossed-dome plan) and a staple of Argostoli! It is said to have been established in 1204 by Saint Francis of Assisi, a castaway on the island of Kefalonia during his trip to Egypt. Also, this church has ties to the Monastery of Sissia due to possibly having the same originator and founder.
The original church was demolished in 1860 in order to be rebuilt as a more grand establishment to fit the needs of the town. The newly-formed basilica with a dome lasted until the devastating earthquake of 1953 when Panagia Sissiotissa subsequently dilapidated. Afterward, the third installment of this church was built (with some much-needed help from the Hellenic Army) in 1957.
Nowadays, this five-arch building showcases beautiful interior decorations, red roof tiles, and a stunning bell tower! In addition, Panagia Sissiotissa Church houses an icon of Panagia Portaitissa, made by Andreas Fokas - Kosmetatos back in 1826.
The church celebrates yearly on November 21st, though the Epiphany Celebrations and the traditional catch-the-cross festivities of early January are also hosted here.
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