CHURCHES

Built in the center of Fira overlooking the volcano and the sea, the area around the temple is often full of people enjoying the view of the famous Santorini sunset. The original church -much smaller than the current- built in 1827 by a Thirean merchant, was a private property. In 1901 it was demolished and in its place was built a new, and more magnificent temple. In the earthquake of 1956, the church was badly damaged and so the authorities were forced to demolish it. The construction of the current church begun in 1963 and was completed in 1968.

The Byzantine church of Panagia Episkopi, dedicated to the Assumption, is located at Episkopi (a village also known as Mesa or Gonia). It was built by the Emperor Alexios Komnenos the 'A (1081-1118) in 1115 as a church of three aisled-basilica style. At some time, though, it was destroyed, and rebuilt upon its ruins. Nowadays, it is considered the most important Byzantine monument of Santorini. Of particular interest are a) the interior marble temple of the 11th century, b) the Byzantine tiles covering the roof and c) the original frescoes that have been revealed, presenting pairs of saints.

The monastery of Prophet Elias was built in the early 18th century as a male monastery, at an altitude of 567 meters over the Pyrgos village. Two chapels preexisted at this same spot, dedicated to the Prophet Elias and Candlemas, respectively. This monastery features well-preserved old books and manuscripts of great value, as well as a collection of ethnographic material, besides -of course- a breathtaking view. 

The women's monastery of Agios Nikolaos [St. Nikolas], located between Firostefani & Imerovigli was founded in 1651 when the Gyzi family decided to convert their private small church into a women's convent. In 1815 the monastery was abandoned and a new one was built in its place. Relics of great importance can be found in the monastery, such as the Byzantine icon of Agios Nikolaos and the wooden altarpiece.

The Catholic Cathedral of Thera is found at the Catholic quarter of Fira and is dedicated to St. John the Baptist. The temple was built in baroque style but suffered great damage by the 1956 earthquake. Nevertheless, it was restored and now it stands out for its architecture, as well as for its tower clock. 

The Dominican monastery was founded in 1956 by a young woman of the island. It is located in Fira, at the Catholic quarter, and it hosts 17 nuns of various nationalities. The Dominican Order has a history of eight centuries, having been founded in 1216. Church of the monastery, Our Lady of the Rosary (or Rosaria as called by the locals) is a blend of island architecture enriched with baroque style elements.

Our concierge personnel can give you information on the historic churches and on how to reach them.