Church of the Archangels (Taxiarchon) Mitropoleos in Kastoria

The Church of the Archangels (Taxiarchon) Mitropoleos, also known as Taxiarchis Mitropoleos, is located in the historic center of Kastoria, near the cathedral and the metropolitan mansion. Built in the 9th century on the ruins of an early Christian basilica, it is one of the most significant Byzantine monuments in the city. It is a small, three-aisled, domed basilica with a narthex on the western side. The church's architecture is characterized by the alternating use of stone and brick, forming decorative geometric patterns, while the central aisle is elevated and features windows, a characteristic element of the Middle Byzantine basilicas in Kastoria.

The interior of the church was decorated with rich frescoes in two phases. The first phase, dating to the early 10th century, survives in a fragmentary state on the eastern walls and the narthex. The second phase, dating to 1359–1360, covers the sanctuary and the central aisle, featuring scenes belonging to the late Palaiologan period of Byzantine art. In the apse of the sanctuary, the rare depiction of the Melismos, the representation of the Divine Communion, stands out as a unique example of Byzantine artistry.

The church also houses the tomb of the Macedonian Struggle hero Pavlos Melas and his wife, Natalia, adding historical significance to the monument. Its architecture and frescoes serve as a testament to Kastoria's rich religious and artistic heritage, as well as the city's important role as a cultural center during the Byzantine period.