Early Byzantine church of 6th Century AD found in Oreoi, northern Evia

A section of an early basilica, dated to the 6th century AD, was found this past summer in Oreoi, northern Evia, during excavations for a sewage network in the greater area of Istiea, the Ministry of Culture said on Wednesday.

The salvage excavation revealed the foundations of walls forming an apse on the ground plan, with a floor lined with bricks. The walls were constructed of rough stones, roof tiles, and clay, with a thin slip over them.

At the apse corners were two large square columns supports, with two stairs in their interior sides.

Two iron crosses and a bronze ring holding lamps were also found during excavation. 

According to the ministry, during the 6th century, the diocese of Oreoi was one of five dioceses on Evia under the care of the Metropolis of Corinth. The find adds significantly to the history of the era in the region, as only a few church sculptures have been found, some of them incorporated in later churches.
The church lies within the perimeter of an older public building, possibly an older basilica.

Source: AMNA