Church of Agios Nikolaos in Vevi

In Vevi, Florina, stands the small single-nave church of Agios Nikolaos, also known as "Banitsa," an exquisite example of post-Byzantine art from the 15th century. The church was built in 1460 as the katholikon of a monastery by the family of the priest Doukas—himself, his wife Kali, and their son Nikolaos. Despite its swift construction, the church features remarkable frescoes belonging to the Ohrid school of painting.

The church's interior is particularly impressive due to its frescoes, considered among the most significant mural ensembles in the Balkans. The depictions, with a special emphasis on the cycle of Judas, showcase the artistic mastery and theological depth of the painter. Additionally, the donor portraits and the funerary crosses in the cemetery add great historical value to the site.

Despite the trials of time, the church remains a vital religious and cultural center for Vevi, with locals continuously caring for it. The preservation of this monument stands as a living testament to the region’s cultural heritage and the local community’s devotion to history and art. Today, the Church of Agios Nikolaos remains an important religious and artistic destination, blending spiritual tradition with the aesthetic grandeur of Byzantine art.