Church of the Prophet Ilias

The small church of the Prophet Ilias (in Greek Profitis Ilias) is located in the south-western part of Patmos, on top of a hill, about 270 meters above sea level. It offers a magnificent panoramic view of the southern side of the island and the Aegean Sea. If the sky is clear, it is possible to see the nearby islands of Lipsi and Leros, and sometimes even the coast of Turkey.

It is a small and ancient monastery built in the seventeenth century, which externally looks like a simple whitewashed building, in the typical Cycladic style. Its beauty lies precisely in this extreme simplicity, like the stone staircase leading to the small entrance.

Our advice

To visit the church, clothing appropriate to each sacred place is required, so the shoulders and legs must be covered, for both men and women.

It also requires an authorization issued by the monastery of San Giovanni, located in Chora, the capital of Patmos. So if in addition to the amazing panorama, you also want to admire the interior of this picturesque church, we advise you to inquire at the beautiful monastery on how to obtain authorization. So you can also organize a visit to the famous monastery of San Giovanni.

We advise you to reach the church of the Prophet Ilias at sunset, perhaps after a day spent in the sun, here you can admire the sky taking on an orange color as it becomes more intense, until it disappears into the sea .. It will be the most beautiful sunset you will see in Patmos ..

How to get to the church of the Prophet Ilias

You can get there by any means of your own, even with a scooter as the road is paved. From Chora you must continue towards Diakofti, then turn right and take the road to Kouvari, Agia Paraskevi, Profitis Ilias. You have to turn right again, in an uphill road and after about a kilometer you will have arrived.

Do not miss the breathtaking view that can be enjoyed from up here .. It will seem to be one step from heaven!