Wall Paintings

The techniques of mural painting differ considerably from one another. They were developed and evolved during specific periods in the history of Byzantium.

The Macedonian School emerged during a period of prosperity and confidence. It was influenced by the movement of Hellenistic art, characterized by lighter colours, dynamic movement and sometimes theatrical expressions.

Much later the Cretan School appeared during a time of reflection and spiritual renewal. It developed mainly within monasteries and therefore became stricter in style, with darker tones and more restrained movement.

There were also periods when Western artistic influences appeared in church wall painting. Eventually, however, Byzantine art experienced a revival led by the important Greek iconographer Photis Kontoglou.

Today, several modern interpretations and stylistic developments of Byzantine mural painting continue this long artistic tradition.