”Hagios Nicholaos”
The church of Hagios Nicholaos is a domed three-aisled basilica. Two main construction phases can be identified. The initial building, dated to the 9th century, was a three-aisled barrel-vaulted basilica with a narthex on the west side, in the core of which was probably incorporated a ruined Roman edifice. The second phase is dated to 1337 /38, according to thedonor inscription in the central aisle, and includes the reconstruction of the vaults with the addition of the dome, sponsored by Constantinos Spanes, military governor of tlie region (tzaousios of the drongos of Melingoi). The wall-paintings are of exceptional artistic value.
In the central aisle, dated to 1337 /38, especially significant are the imposing figure of the enthroned Christ from the Deesis on the apse, the Pantocrator surrounded by angelic hosts and figures of prophets on the dome, and the impressive christological scenes on the vaults and the upper zones of the walls. Their highly artistic quality and expressionistic manner suggest a workshop coming from a significant art centre, possibly from Mystras.
The life of saint Nicholas is depicted in the south aisle, while the painted decoration of the north aisle indicates that it was probably dedicated to the Virgin. The wall-paintings of the side aisles are dated around the mid- 14th century, according to the donor inscriptions and their stylistic features.
The project "Consolidation and Conservation of Wall-Paintings and Sculpted Decoration in the Church of Hagios Nicholaos at Kampinari, Platsa" was carried out under the direct supervision of the Ephorate of Antiquities of Messinia, with a budget of euro 330.000, during the period from 1-1-2011 to 31-12-2014. The project included the consolidation of the wall-paintings and the sculpted decoration, the conservation - restoration of the dome and parts of the masonry and the replacement of doors.
Today it holds service only once a year. The rest of the time, the church is closed - sadly.
You can enter the walled area of the churchyard. The gate to the churchyard is usually closed but you are allowed to open the gate and enter the churchyard. The church itself is closed (and locked) however. I was told that father Christof, the local priest, has the key to the church. Father Christof should normally be in one of the tavernas in Platsa 😊. However, when I tried to find him there I was told that he was at home, in Milea.
The cache
The cache is placed within the walled area of the churchyard, within the wall (see spoiler). You are looking for a small waterproof bag. Put the cache back the way you found it (or better if it was not put the right way).
Though it can be really quiet here, there are also moments there are muggles around. So use stealth when needed…
Happy caching!
Marrakesj