PATMOS

      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 A.D. and was inspired to write the Book of Revelation or Apocalypse. 

       Later  the emperor Alexios Komninos  ordered the monk Chistodoulos Letrinos to found a monastery in honor of the Apostle. Thus the holy monastery 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, cube like  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 priceless 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 favorites are Grigos ,Kallikatsou Psili, Ammos and Diakofti. 

Transportation

 HOW TO GET By ferry from Piraeus or Rhodes  with Catamaran