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PATMOS
General information
"The Jerusalem of the Aegean" is one way of
describing Patmos or Patnos, as it was referred to in one 5th century inscription. It was
here that St. John the Theologian was exiled between 95 and 97 A.D. and was inspired to
write the Book of Revelation or Apocalypse.
Later the emperor Alexios Komninos ordered the monk
Christodoulos Letrinos to found a monastery in honour of the Apostle. Thus the holy
monastery of Patmos was built, the most important landmark on the island.
In September 1995 it was celebrated the anniversary of
the 1900 years from the date that the Book of Revelation was written.
Patmos, situated between Leros and
Ikaria, is a
mountainous island with rocky soil and an abundance of small coves.
The majestic fortress - monastery crowns the hill above the port, surrounded by dazzling
white, cubelike houses which spill down its flanks. Interspersed among them are miniscule
churches and grand sea captains' mansions, separated from each other by narrow lanes, high
walls and small squares opening onto breath - catching views over the Aegean.
The construction of the monastery began in the 11th
century. It is circumscribed by massive grey stone walls with battlements that protected
the main church and another five chapels. Its extraordinary treasury contains Byzantine
and post-Byzantine icons, sacred vessels, 9th century embroideries and other pricelless
objects, while its library houses parchment documents, patriarchal seals, illuminated
manuscripts and rare old books. In the chapel dedicated to Our Lady frescoes can be seen
which date to 1210-1220.
Ships arriving at Patmos dock in the island's
harbour, Skala,
a lively place with its white houses, flowered courtyards, fish tavernas, hotels,
restaurants, cafes and shops. North of Skala is the village of Kambos, set among
trees and greenery, and near it is what many consider to be the island's finest beach.
Patmos's indented coastline conceals a host of lovely
beaches. Among the favourites are Grigos, Kallikatsou, Psili Ammos and Diakofti.
How to get there
By ferry from Piraeus
For information call Piraeus Harbourmaster, tel.: 01/4226000
Useful Telephones
Area code: 0247
Harbourmaster: 31.231
Police: 31.303
Municipality: 31.235, 31.666
Taxi: 31.225
First Aid: 31.577
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