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Patmos

Patmos

Patmos is renowned all over the world as the sacred island where Saint John wrote the Bible’s Book of Revelation. As an unspoiled destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site still untouched by tourism, Patmos has become increasingly popular among the international elite in recent years. Those who gather here - including pilgrims, intellectuals, jetsetters, and nature lovers - all enjoy its beauty, laid-back rhythm, and incredibly mystical atmosphere.

The medieval town of Chora, crowned with the imposing castle-monastery of St. John the Theologian, seems untouched by time and is a delightful amalgamation of modest white houses, impressive mansions, charming winding alleys, and landmark windmills. To discover the island's more contemporary side, head to the lively port of Skala and the picturesque settlements of Kampos and Grikos, all of which offer excellent food, bars and cafés, and an unpretentious serene vibe.

The volcanic lace-like coastline offers unique beaches, impressive bays, imposing cliffs and caves, as well as chapels and monasteries. Patmos is a superb off-the-beaten-track Greek island where you needn’t be religious to be able to appreciate its deep spirituality.

Things to do:

  • Visit the Holy Monastery & the Holy Cave of the Apocalypse

Exiled by Emperor Domitian, St. John is thought to have found safe refuge here in the 1st century A.D. The prevailing theory claims that the Book of Revelation was written in 95 A.D. in the Holy Cave where St. John heard the voice of God talking to him. Visiting the cave is an enlightening and humbling experience regardless of the visitors' spiritual leanings.

The fingerprints of St. John can be traced on the wall, while according to legend, the crack on the ceiling was created by the voice of God during his vision:

"I John, (…) was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches." Revelation (1:9), Apostle John

The Castle-Monastery that encompasses the Holy Cave was built in 1088 by the monk Christodoulos Latrinós. Buildings of different ages form the Monastery which is comprised of 10 chapels, 99 cells, and a library containing 890 handwritten codes and 13,000 historical documents.

Note: Make sure to wear something appropriate as the Monastery states that "knees and shoulders should be covered, for both males and females" while visiting.

  • Discover the Island's Best Beaches

There are about 20 beaches, both pebbly and sandy, with pristine blue and turquoise waters. Some are easily accessible, while others can only be reached on foot or by boat; adventure seekers will be happy to find their secluded Aegean paradise!

The beach in Kampos is the most cosmopolitan choice, offering water sports as well as great fish restaurants. Psili Ammos is an exotic golden sand beach that is hard to get to but worth the trouble. Lampi is a beautiful beach on the northeastern part of the island famous for its colourful pebbles. People loved the pebbles so much that they collected them en masse; now to protect the stones from extinction, removing them is prohibited by law.

The bay of Grikos is home to a lovely tranquil beach, with fine gravel and sand. It is protected from strong winds by two small peninsulas and the islet of Tragonisi. An integral part of Grikos' landscape is the "Kalikatsou Rock", a big rock connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land. On the other side of "Kalikatsou Rock" is Petra, a pristine beach with large white pebbles where you will undoubtedly feel the island's unique mystic energy.

  • Take a Day-Trip to Neighbouring Islets

Hop on one of the cruise boats at the port of Skala and embark on a day cruise to explore some of the nearby islands. Discover Arkoi, a cluster of tiny islets studded with incredible secluded beaches, and Marathi an islet popular among the yachting crowd for its translucent aquamarine waters and exceptional fresh fish restaurants. Visitors who want to venture a bit further away can take a boat trip to the charming islands of Leipsi and Leros.

  • Go Hiking

The Greek Society for Environment and Cultural Heritage carefully selected and marked a series of trails offering visitors an alternative way to discover the island's stunning landscapes and landmarks while gaining significant insight into the traditional Patmian way of life.

 

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