Living in Patmos (Greek, Πάτμος; Italian: Patmo) is a pure bliss. Patmos is an ideal destination for nature lovers thanks to its lace-like coastline, sheer cliffs and volcanic soil. The small Greek island is found on the shores of the Aegean Sea, being one of the northernmost islands of the Dodecanese complex. The highest point found in this paradise is Profitis Ilias, 269 metres above sea level, and its main communities are Chora (the capital city), and Skala, the only commercial port.
The most important component of Patmos is surely its spirituality, as the Cave of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian has molded the island's character. Patmos is mentioned in the Bible Book of Revelation, its introduction stating that the author, John, was on Patmos when he was blessed with a vision from Jesus. Early Christian tradition identified this writer John of Patmos as John the Apostle, though some modern scholars are more skeptical. Even so, Patmos is a popular destination for Christian pilgrimage. Yet separated from this overwhelming component, in its soul, Patmos is a gorgeous Aegean island of astounding natural beauty and breathtaking shorelines. Its traditional white houses, crystal blue waters, vibrant nightlife and gastronomic surprises certainly justify the allure of this picturesque island.
Patmos Island is famous in Greece for various special Dodecanese recipes, the island hosts gourmet hotspots, ideal for gastronomy lovers, but also all sorts of traditional restaurants in Patmos Island, such as Loza Café, Tarsanas, Taverna Leonida, Mostra Café, Koukmavla or Vegghera Restaurant.
Here you can be dazzled by a trip to the Cave of the Apocalypse. believed to have been the sacred cave where Saint Ioannis heard the voice of God and wrote the Apocalypse. In the cave, visitors can admire the cross engraved by Saint Ioannis, as well as the three small cracks on the rock through which the voice of God came, symbolizing Holly Trinity. Saint Ioannis Theologos Monastery, built in the 11th century, reigns over the high cliff above the island capital and resembles a medieval castle. The monastery has been declared a world heritage monument by UNESCO. It houses 10 chapels, a laboratory of pottery, the Ecclesiastical Museum with a treasure of orthodox icons, embroideries and objects used for religious purposes.
Visitors also encounter the Ancient Acropolis – Kastelli, strategically situated at the northern part of Hora, the ancient acropolis has a view to all three bays (Skala, Hohlaka and Merika), while it is dated back to the Middle Bronze Period. You may feast your eyes on the ruins of the ancient fortification wall, towers and one gate, but Kastelli is also the ideal place to admire breathtaking sunsets.
Aspris (or Lefkis) Bay is located in the area of Western Patmos, where ruins of prehistoric accommodations have been discovered. The place provides inquisitive and curious guests a genuine travel back in time. The Rock of Kalikatsous is another landmark of the island. On this rock featuring carved stairs, caves and wells, ceramic utensils of 1100 B.C. have been found as well as tools made of stone. Housed in the Semantiris Residence, the Folklore Museum is yet another must-see venue. Built in the 17th century by craftsmen from Smyrni, the Museum hosts paintings, old furniture and objects of the islands everyday life through the centuries. Skala, the port of the island, is quite famous for its unique architecture. Among its beautiful buildings, the “Italian” building that houses the Post Office, the Hellenic Tourism Organization and local authorities stand out. It was built in 1932, boasts a three-floor tower and many arches at the ground floor.
Patmos Hora, the islands capital is among the most picturesque island capitals in Greece. With its whitewashed houses of traditional Greek insular architecture and its mansions made of stone, Hora is connected to Skala with a narrow street. At Hora, visitors can also see the house of Emmanuel Xanthos, one of the founders of “Filiki Eteria”. Try as we might, no words can genuinely depict the earth spirit present on this island, its a geophysical marvel that not everybody has the privilege to take part in.
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