Four months ago, in Alexandria, the comprehensive renovation of the historic Holy Church of the Annunciation of the Theotokos began. It is one of the most important Orthodox churches in Egypt and a project of exceptional ecclesiastical and cultural significance.
The renovation is being carried out through the generous sponsorship of Mr. Athanasios Martinos, a great benefactor, and is being executed by the distinguished construction company Rowad. The renovation is being carried out with full respect for the church’s historical character, architectural identity, and sacred nature.
The project is undertaken under the blessing, inspiration, and paternal care of Pope and Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa, and with the consent of the Greek Community of Alexandria and its president, Andreas Vafiadis.
On December 30, 2025, the Patriarch visited the Holy Church of the Annunciation of the Theotokos, which is currently under renovation. There, he met with the team of architects and workers who are carrying out this major project. During the visit, the Patriarch extended holiday wishes to everyone, congratulated those involved on their progress, and expressed his satisfaction with their cooperation, dedication, and responsibility.
The visit confirms the Patriarchate of Alexandria and All Africa’s unwavering interest in and continuous care for preserving and restoring its sacred sites so historic churches can be handed down renewed to future generations as living centers of worship, faith, and spiritual life.
In 2026, the Community Holy Church of the Annunciation of the Theotokos in Alexandria will celebrate the 170th anniversary of its consecration. This significant event took place on March 25, 1856, a landmark day for Orthodoxy and Hellenism.
Construction of the church was the result of a collective effort by the Greek community of Alexandria. Prominent consular and community figures initiated the project, and the late Patriarchs of Alexandria, Hierotheos I and Hierotheos II, made a decisive contribution. They supported the project by providing significant financial donations, real estate, and building materials. The foundation stone was laid on September 1, 1847, and the church was completed thanks to the generosity of the Greek diaspora and the constant care of the Patriarchate.
The Holy Church of the Annunciation, the first community church in Egypt, evolved into a spiritual, historical, and national center of Hellenism. Over the decades, the church underwent significant phases of decoration and iconography, most notably the completion of its postwar decorations in 1953 and the major restoration work from 2002 to 2004, which was supported by the Alexander S. Onassis Foundation. The church reopened on March 25, 2006, with Pope and Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa, officiating the ceremony. Leading ecclesiastical and state authorities were in attendance.
To this day, the Holy Community Church of the Annunciation of the Theotokos remains a living symbol of faith, historical memory, and the continuity of Hellenism in Egypt—an ark that, with the comprehensive renovation that began months ago, is preparing to enter a new century of its history.
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
