Church of Saints Constantine and Helena
A charming Byzantine chapel in Ohrid offering stunning lake views and historic frescoes, a peaceful spot for reflection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Church of Saints Constantine and Helena
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Byzantine chapel in Ohrid offering stunning lake views and historic frescoes, a peaceful spot for reflection.
"Small, cozy, little church overlooking part of the city out to the lake. No real reason to come here, but you probably will be alone so enjoy that."
📸 Capture the Views
The church offers stunning lake views, perfect for photography. Go early to avoid crowds and get the best light.
👟 Comfortable Footwear Needed
Cobblestone paths surround the church. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the area and enjoying the scenery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Lake Views
Overlooking Lake Ohrid
Capture breathtaking vistas of the shimmering lake and surrounding landscape from this elevated vantage point. Perfect for photos!
Intimate Byzantine Chapel
Behind Virgin Perivleptos
Discover a small, cozy Byzantine family chapel with beautiful 14th and 15th-century frescoes. A hidden gem for art lovers.
Historic Orthodox Architecture
Ohrid Old Town
Experience the charm of this historic Orthodox church, a testament to the region's rich religious and architectural heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Embrace the Lakeside Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Views
The church offers stunning lake views, perfect for photography. Go early to avoid crowds and get the best light.
👟 Comfortable Footwear Needed
Cobblestone paths surround the church. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the area and enjoying the scenery.
🦟 Be Prepared for Insects
The churchyard can have many insects and weeds. Consider bringing repellent for a more comfortable visit.
🤫 Seek Solitude
Often, you can enjoy this small church and its surroundings in solitude, offering a peaceful moment.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Views
The church offers stunning lake views, perfect for photography. Go early to avoid crowds and get the best light.
👟 Comfortable Footwear Needed
Cobblestone paths surround the church. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the area and enjoying the scenery.
🦟 Be Prepared for Insects
The churchyard can have many insects and weeds. Consider bringing repellent for a more comfortable visit.
🤫 Seek Solitude
Often, you can enjoy this small church and its surroundings in solitude, offering a peaceful moment.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Church of Saints Constantine and Helena to be a lovely, small, and cozy chapel with beautiful frescoes and great views of Lake Ohrid. While some appreciate its intimate atmosphere and historical significance, others note that the surrounding yard can be poorly maintained and the church may be locked at times.
"Small church close to St Mary's that was locked up when I visited. It oversees the lake and is a great spot for pictures. The yard is very poorly maintained, lots of insects swarming at you and weeds growing all over the place. Quite different than the other churches in the town which are properly maintained."
Klaus Wanderer
"Lovely small church!!! It is nice to explore the area where these church is!!! It is nice to pay a visit if you can!!! So you can come by in here while you are in the old part of Ohrid and to see the area around these church!!!"
Ivan Ilievski
"Small, cozy, little church overlooking part of the city out to the lake. No real reason to come here, but you probably will be alone so enjoy that."
Rodney Egel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in Ohrid's Old Town, often described as being behind the Virgin Perivleptos Church. It's best reached on foot as you explore the historic center.
Parking in Ohrid's Old Town can be challenging. It's recommended to park in designated areas outside the pedestrian zone and walk to the church.
Yes, local buses serve Ohrid. From the bus station, you can take a taxi or walk towards the Old Town to reach the vicinity of the church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no admission fee to visit this small church. It's often accessible for exploration without a ticket.
The church is a small, often unattended chapel. While there are no official posted hours, it's typically accessible during daylight hours when not locked.
Some visitors have noted that the church can be locked at times. It's best to check locally or be prepared for the possibility of it being closed.
📸 📸 Photography
The most popular photo spot is from the church's vantage point overlooking Lake Ohrid, offering stunning panoramic views.
If the church is open, photography inside is usually permitted, but always be respectful of the sacred space. The frescoes are a key feature.
Early mornings or late afternoons, especially during the golden hour, provide beautiful lighting for both the church and the lake views.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
While the church itself is noted as small and beautiful, some reviews mention the surrounding yard being poorly maintained with insects and weeds.
Many visitors find it a lovely, cozy spot to explore while in Ohrid's Old Town, especially for the views and its historical significance.
It's described as a small Byzantine family chapel with significant frescoes dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be aware that the church itself is a place of worship and may be quiet. The surrounding paths are cobblestoned, so strollers might be a bit bumpy. If the yard is unkempt, it might not be the most engaging spot for very young children, but the overall experience of exploring the old town can be an adventure.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
It's a perfect spot to pause during a day of exploring Ohrid's historic center. The lack of crowds can make it feel like a personal discovery, offering a unique connection to the ancient atmosphere of the city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Ohrid's Sacred Sites
While some visitors note that the church's exterior yard might be less maintained than other prominent Ohrid churches, the interior often holds treasures like 14th and 15th-century frescoes. These artistic remnants provide a connection to the Byzantine era, a crucial period in the region's history. The church's small size contributes to its charm, offering a peaceful respite from busier tourist spots.
For those interested in Orthodox Christianity and history, visiting this church, even if briefly, adds depth to the Ohrid experience. It's a reminder of the layers of history and faith that have shaped this ancient city. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as the paths leading to and around the church are often cobblestoned.
Photography Tips for the Lakeside Church
When photographing the church itself, focus on its architectural details and any visible frescoes if the interior is accessible. The intimate scale of the chapel can be appealing, so try different angles to capture its charm. If the surrounding yard is a bit overgrown, you can sometimes use the natural elements to frame your shots, or focus on the church's facade.
To get the best shots without crowds, aim for early morning visits. This not only provides excellent light but also ensures a more serene experience, allowing you to compose your photos without interruption. Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture both the church and the expansive lake views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit