The Monastery of Saint John the Theologian stands on the Greek island of Patmos in the Dodecanese, in the town of Chora. It is also known simply as the Patmos Monastery. Founded in 1088, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its walls hold a collection of priceless manuscripts and religious artifacts.
What a visit offers
For many visitors, the monastery is the reason to come to Patmos. It is a working religious house rather than a museum piece, so a visit is best approached with quiet and respect. The setting is part of the experience: the buildings sit above the island's main town, and the views across the surrounding Aegean are a reminder of how the monastery has long been a landmark for anyone arriving by sea.
Planning your trip
- Location: Chora, Patmos 855 00, Greece
- Contact: +30 22470 31398
- Nearby: the rest of Chora, with its lanes and whitewashed houses, is within easy walking distance
Because the monastery is a place of worship and study, it is wise to dress modestly and to keep noise to a minimum. Confirm current visiting arrangements with the monastery before you set out, as they may change. Allow time not only for the monastery itself but for wandering the town around it, which gives the visit a fuller context.
Whether you come for its manuscripts, its history, or simply its position above the sea, the monastery makes a memorable stop on any trip to Patmos.