Examples dating from the 10th to the 1 1th century have been discovered hidden by whitewash on the oldest parts of the nave walls of the church of S.

The open work was filled up with whitewash, the painting and gilding effaced, the furniture soiled, torn or removed.

1 A remarkable series of 14th-century frescoes, in perfect condition, were disclosed in 1909 by the removal of the whitewash which had for centuries covered the interior of this fine church.

The different coils are prevented from adhering by a coating of whitewash, and the end of each nautical mile is carefully marked for future reference.

During the occupation of the church by the Uniats or United Greek Church in the 17th century these were covered with whitewash, and were only discovered in 1842, after which the cathedral was internally restored; but the chapel of the Three Pontiffs has been left untouched to show how carefully the old style has been preserved or copied.