The settlement of Arbanassi has preserved its grand spirit from the past – its imposing castle resembling houses with fantastic large gardens fenced by high walls with winding narrow cobblestone streets, spacious squares which are noted for their impressive architectonic water fountains.

Arbanassi owes most of its glory to its Orthodox churches. Seven Christian churches were constructed, extended and icon-painted time and again during the period from the mid 14th century to the late 18th century. Most prominent among them is the Bishopric Nativity Church. It has a complex architectural composition. It consists of a naos (men’s department), narthex (women’s department), a chapel to St. John the Forerunner with a narthex joint by an L-shaped gallery on the Northern and Western walls. Originally the naos existed as an independent church. The church was constructed and the icon-painting was completed in 1597. Two Arbanassian priests were the donors to the church. In the 20s of 17th century there was a substantial extension of the church – the narthex, the chapel to St. John the Forerunner and the gallery were appended. The construction had been finalized before 1643.