Churches in Santorini

Santorini is famous for the much photographed blue domed and colorful churches that can be seen in the entire island. Each church bears witness to a unique history and has a feast to celebrate, upon which great festivals take place in the villages. Religious plays a significant role in the life of the locals.

The largest church of Santorini is the Orthodox Cathedral located at the center of Fira. It was founded in the 19th century and its interior is adorned with striking frescoes. In the close distance is the Catholic Cathedral dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. During the Byzantine times was built the famous church of Panagia Episkopi that has survived many invasions and is well-preserved up to this day. In the Catholic neighborhood of Fira lies the Domenican Convent, a place with the unique insight of the artwork that prevailed in Santorini during the medieval times. Today it is inhabited by 12 nuns.

Between the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli, you will find Agios Nikolaos monastery. Inside the complex is an ecclesiastical and a folklore museum. On a hillside above Perissa beach is the chapel of Panagia Katefiani, worth visiting for its fabulous location. The Monastery of Prophet Elias offers an ideal trekking route, passing through the rocky landscape of Santorini and the best view, located on the island's highest spot. Churches of great interest can be found in the smaller villages as well.