What makes
Patmos famous, is its spirituality, as the Cave of the Apocalypse and the
Monastery of Saint John the Theologian has shaped the island’s character. This
is the reason why there is a large
Monastery of Saint John above Chora. Also the island of Patmos is known for its
amazing natural beauty and its stunning beaches.
Patmos belongs
to the Dodecanese islands group.
Getting to
Patmos
By sea from
Piraeus, as the Island of Patmos has regular ferry service.
Accommodation
The largest
village, as well as capital and port of the island, is Skala where you will
find accommodation. Traditional apartments are found close to the port, providing
the holidaymaker a satisfactory number of facilities.
Also you can choose to stay in a coastal
village that will offer you a more quiet and slow pace of life than Skala such
as Kampos Village.
Beaches
The beach
in Kámpos is the best organized beach of
Patmos, with sea sports facilities especially for windsurfing and sailing.
The beach
in Psili Ammos is only accessible by boat from Skala.
Meloi Beach
is the nearest beach from Skala. It is a sandy beach with crystal clear waters
and it is protected by strong winds. Also you don’t need an umbrella as large
tamarisk trees create excellent shade.
Along
island’s shores there are many bays and smaller coves with stunning crystal water with less
facilities but rich in beauty.
Sightseeing
The
Monastery of Saint John the Theologian
It was
built as a castle in 1088 by the monk Christodoulos Latrinós. It is situated on
the hill above Chora and it is visible from every part of Patmos.
The
Orthodox Monastery of Saint John the Theologian looks like a fortress and it is
among the most important religious centres in Greece.
In the
premises of the Monastery of Saint John there is a small but interesting museum
that houses portable icons from the Byzantine and post Byzantine times, priest
vestments, valuable manuscripts, items used in the Holy Mass and others.
The Cave of
Apocalypse
The Cave of
Apocalypse is located halfway between
the Port of Patmos in Skala and Chora. According to the prevailing theory, the
Book of Apocalypse was written in 95 A.D. in the Holy Cave, where St. John
heard the voice of God talking to him. It constitutes is an important place of
pilgrimage for all Christians throughout the world.
Religious
feasts
On August 15th, Patmos celebrates with a big
feast at the Monastery of Panagia Geranou with traditional dancing, singing and
food.
Feast of
Saint John
The feast
of Saint John the Theologian is honored with glorious celebrations in Chora, on
May 8th and September 26th.
Local
products
Mizithra
made with goat cheese and sea water
This
full-fat sour cheese matures in sea water and is often served while still hot.
It has to be consumed within 4-5 days after production.
Patmos also
produces fine embroideries with traditional designs.
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