Since each of them has its own day dedicated to its patron saint, visitors can search for the festivities that take place during their stay on the island, and so take the best advantage of the available churches.
The beauty of the churches and monasteries of this island is in part owned to the period of prosperity that it went through during some centuries, since the year 1309. This was due to the flourishing of activities like the sponge trade, the shipping commerce, and the boat building, among others.
Although the development of these activities has come to an end, the presence of great churches, along with other types of buildings that this period allowed remains untouched until our days.
| The
Agios Prokopios church |
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An example of this is the church of Agios Prokopios, dating from the 14th century; while the Agia Marina Neras also belongs to that period, since it dates from the 15th century.
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visit it every year.
On the other hand, the view that
provides the height of this location is great and is one more reason to visit the place, as well as its important sites, such as the Archaeological museum.
| Monastery of the Archangel Michael |
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Heading to the south, on the village of Panormitis, it can also be found a major monastery, the main on the island: the monastery of the Archangel Michael. Its interior is covered by wall paintings from the Byzantine period, made by the native hagiographers Nikitas and Michaelos Karakostidis.
It has some amazing wooden carved icons that are in many cases dedicatory offerings, since the tradition indicates that those who ask a favour to the Archangel must give something in retribution.
This caused the massive offerings of many sailors –since Agios Michael is also known as their protector- |
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books, dating between the 16th and the 18th centuries.
On the other hand, it is allowed
to take photos, which is forbidden in most important churches and monasteries in Greece and around the world, and the entrance is free.
However, it is good to have enough time available to spend
in order to be able to take the best advantage of the visit –usually it takes more than an hour.
The great churches on Simi can be found almost every where on the island. However, counting on all this information about the major ones allows to
administrate the time wisely, and take the most advantage of the best available places.
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