Excursion St. john’s patmos & churches tour at Patmos

Explore the splendid beauty and religious history of Patmos during a scenic and informative excursion to this sacred island.

Grotto of St. John and Chora

Depart the pier for the brief, scenic drive to the Grotto of St. John. This small cave, now converted into a beautiful chapel, is where the Saint lived, had his revelation and wrote the world-renowned Book of the Apocalypse. During your visit, see the stone orifice St. John is said to have used as a pillow. From here, proceed to the village of Chora, which features simple houses and Byzantine churches.

Monastery of St. John the Theologian

Upon arrival, begin the climb on-foot to the Monastery of St. John the Theologian. As you enter the courtyard of this imposing structure, see the intricate pebbled floor, decorated arches and the old well in its centre that is fed by the reservoir running beneath it. Looking through the supporting arches, splendid decorative frescoes can be seen adorning the entrance to the Chapel of Christodoulos.

Chapel of Christodoulos and Old Treasury

This ornate little chapel houses sacred relics that are stored in a silver-coated chest. The Old Treasury is now a museum displaying a breathtaking collection of jewelled chalices, crowns, crucifixes, vestments, and old manuscripts dating from 1073. Following your visit, some free time is made available to explore the village of Chora before commencing the brief return drive to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Patmos, Grotto of St. John, Chora, Churches, Monastery of St. John the Theologian, Chapel of Christodoulos, Old Treasury

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, with a strenuous uphill climb to reach the monastery, and steps to negotiate at the cave and monastery. This tour is not recommended for guests with claustrophobia, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Please note that sometimes a mass is taking place in the Grotto in which case a guide will give commentary before you walk through the cave. Please watch your step inside the cave. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses from the ship. A strict dress code is observed at the monastery;cover their shoulders, and shorts are not permitted inside. The tour sequence may vary.