Patmos (or Patnos) is also known as The Jerusalem of the
Aegean
, as it was referred to in one 5th century inscription. It was here
that St. John the Theologian was exiled between 95 and 97 A.D. and was inspired to
write the Apocalypse, or Book of Revelation
.
Later the emperor
Alexios Komninos ordered the monk Christodoulos Letrinos to found a monastery in
honour of the Apostle. Thus the holy monastery of Patmos was built, the most important
landmark on the island.
Patmos, situated between Leros and Ikaria, is a montainous
island with rocky soil and an abundance of small coves.
The majestic fortress-monastery
crowns the hill above the port, surrounded by cubelike white houses which spill down
its flanks. The construction of the monastery began in the 11th century. It's circumscribed
by massive stone walls with battlements that protected the main church and other five chapels.
Its extraordinary treasury contains Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons, sacred vessels and other
priceless objects, while its library houses parchment documents, patriarchal seals, manuscripts
and rare old books. In the chapel dedicated to Our Lady frescoes can be seen which date to 1210-1220.
Ships arriving at Patmos dock in the island's harbour, Skala, a lively place
with its white houses, flowered courtyards, fish tavernas, hotels, restaurants, kafenions
(typical cafes) and shops.
The village of Kambos, situated at north of Skala, set among
trees and greenery, and near it's what many consider to be the island's finest beach. Patmos' indented
coastline conceals a host of lovely beaches. Among the favourites are Grigos, Kallikatsou,
Psili Ammos and Diakofti.
How to get to Patmos:
By ferry from Piraeus-Athens.