Chora is the capital of Patmos, nestled on a hill in the central-southern part of the island, a few kilometers south of Skala, its main port. It is a picturesque medieval settlement built around the imposing San Giovanni Monastery.
It looks like a traditional set of snow-white houses, with flat roofs, built in the typical Aegean style, which mix with some luxurious and more modern homes. The scenery becomes even more suggestive thanks to the narrow alleys, the stone arches, the small white chapels and the flower-filled courtyards. In Chora there is no shortage of characteristic shops, taverns, restaurants, bars and cafés, as well as small hotels and apartments for rent.
The history of Chora
In the 1st century AD Patmos was conquered by the Romans, who used it as a place of exile. Between 95 and 97 the Apostle John was sent into exile on the island because of his Christian preaching and here he dedicated himself to writing the last chapter of the Bible, the Apocalypse.
The first houses of Chora date back to the XII century, they were built around 1130 when some families of inhabitants of the island (mostly workers involved in the construction of the monastery) settled near the monastery and built external walls to defend themselves from the invaders .
The houses were built with thick walls, much higher than the roofs to discourage patrons from climbing. Inside the walls five gates blocked the entrance passages. Other islanders and not only took refuge in Chora to escape the invasions of the Turks in the following centuries. In fact, it was necessary to widen the passages and build two other locked doors. Chora acquired even more prestige in the period between the 16th and 17th centuries, during which beautiful residences and luxurious residences were built for the wealthy families of the time.
Over time and the end of pirate raids, some inhabitants moved to the coast, leaving their homes in Chora. Thanks to the careful restoration and meticulous reconstructions we can still admire some of these magnificent homes today.
What to see in Chora
The symbolic place, not only of Chora, but of the whole island of Patmos is undoubtedly the Monastery of San Giovanni. It is certainly the most recognizable building on the island since it is located on the top of the Sacred Cave of the Apocalypse, where St. John wrote the biblical book. Both the Grotto and the Monastery have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, therefore they represent an unmissable stop on your trip to Patmos. Next to the monastery you will find the Ecclesiastical Museum, which is actually part of the monastery, so while you are there you can take the opportunity to visit it.
If you are interested in the local tradition of Chora do not miss the Folklore Museum. This small museum preserves many ancient objects dating back to the 14th century AD. until the 19th century. It is housed in an ancient building that once belonged to the Simantiri family.
One of the oldest buildings in Chora is the Sophouliou palace built in 1522: it was an independent complex with large ovens, warehouses and rooms for security personnel. Other monuments that are worth a visit are the Castle of San Giovanni, the Patmica School, the Monastery of the Annunciation and the churches of Agios Fokas and Agia Ekaterini.
Another strong point of Chora is that it is located in a central location, close to some of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Patmos. For example, Skala beach is about 4 kilometers from Chora and is the most famous beach on the island. In addition to being bathed by a splendid turquoise sea, Skala beach offers many services for a super relaxing day.
Meloi beach is a beautiful sandy bay protected from the wind, located near the main port of Patmos, about 5 kilometers from Chora. For your proximity to the port it could be quite crowded, but don't worry, just arrive early to relax in a big way!
Chora nightlife
If during the day you can be a silent village, almost asleep, the small capital comes alive after sunset. In Chora, in fact, all the nightlife of the island of Patmos is concentrated, so if you love fun and busy evenings Chora is the perfect place for you. You can spend wonderful evenings sipping a cocktail and strolling through its crowded streets until late at night.
How to get to Chora
Chora is connected to the villages and beaches of the island by taxis, buses and paths, including dirt roads. So you have the choice of whether or not to rent a car or scooter to get around.
Whatever your choice, don't miss the magical capital of Patmos, which with its mystical charm and its ancient history will conquer you!