Churches & Blue Domes

Despite its small size, the villages of Santorini are filled with religious buildings disguised as chapels, churches, and monasteries.

With centuries of tradition and distinctive, holy images, every temple exudes a sense of spirituality. There are plain whitewashed churches with famous blue domes and small chapels carved out of rock. In addition, the island is home to magnificent cathedrals and majestic monasteries that stand out for their grandeur.

Despite their differences, all religious buildings exhibit superb craftsmanship and are seamlessly incorporated into the island's nature. The island is home to Catholic and Orthodox churches, combining Byzantine cross and basilica styles.

There are more than 600 temples in Santorini, so tourists are sure to see them wherever they go. This is a result of the residents' strong religious beliefs, which have been heightened by the island's catastrophic volcanic eruptions. With their vibrant colors, tall bell towers, and stunning vistas, these temples are not just places of worship but also works of art.

1. Prophet Elias Monastery

The monastery of Prophet Elias was founded at the beginning of the 18th century, at the crest of the Prophet Elias Mountain, and therefore provides magnificent panoramic views of the whole island. It suffered serious damage during the earthquake of 1956 but it remains a glorious fortress with a staggering steeple. The monastery holds the Icons and Relics collection of Pyrgos which boasts important exhibits, such as manuscripts and old books, a collection of ethnographic material, and displays on printing, candle making, shoemaking, winemaking, and local food. Last but not least, it has an imposing wooden carved iconostasis.

2. Agios Nikolaos Monastery

Agios Nikolaos Monastery (credit: commons.wikimedia.org/)

The monastery of Agios Nikolaos (St. Nicholas) (map) is situated between the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli. Initially, it had been founded in Skaros in 1651 and was transferred to its current position in 1820. It is the only Greek Orthodox convent in Santorini and is dedicated to three saints; Agios Nikolaos, Agios Panteleimon, and Zoodohos Pigi. It possesses a unique Byzantine icon of Saint Nicholas and a splendorous carved iconostasis.

3. Panagia Episkopi Church

The beautiful church of Panagia Episkopi which is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary lies in Mesa Gonia village. It dates back to the 11th century and it has survived various invasions, earthquakes, and fires. Today it is considered an important Byzantine monument of Santorini. The church is admirable for its exemplary religious paintings and icons, including an invaluable icon of the Virgin Mary. Sadly, several icons have been stolen. It also stands out for its tiled roof, unlike the majority of the white-domed or blue-domed churches in Santorini.

4. The Metropolitan Cathedral of the Presentation of Christ

The Orthodox Cathedral is located in the beautiful capital of Santorini, Fira, and offers spectacular views of the impressive caldera and the volcano. It was built in 1827 and reconstructed to its current form after the destructive earthquake of 1956. Both its exterior and interior are imposing with elaborate arches, a staggering bell tower, admirable frescoes, and mosaic flooring. It is entirely whitewashed and visitors gaze at it with admiration and awe.

5. Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist

The Catholic Cathedral that is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist lies at the center of the capital Fira, in the Catholic Quarter. It was constructed in 1823 and was restored later, after the volcanic earthquake of 1956. It has a combination of pale blue, grey, and beige colors and its style is baroque. This overwhelming cathedral is accompanied by an elegant steeple with a clock.

6. Agios Nikolaos Marmaritis Chapel

Agios Nikolaos Marmaritis Chapel (credit: santorini-more.com)

A lovely, tiny chapel dedicated to Saint Nicholas (map) can be found at the entrance of Emporio village. It used to be a sacred site and it served as a family tomb but later it was converted into a Christian church. The construction is made exclusively of grey marble and that is where it took its name “Marmaritis” from. Additionally, inside the square chapel there is a marble icon of the Saint. On the outside there is a small yard with two church bells.

7. Panagia Sergena Church

Panagia Sergena Church

A very impressive church lies outside the settlement of Vothonas. The church of Panagia Sergena (map) is literally carved into an arresting volcanic rock and creates an overwhelming site. The interior is special as well and a narrow helical path will lead you there. During the Ottoman Rule the church was used as a refuge. A visit to this unique remote church and its beautiful peaceful surroundings will be a memorable experience for visitors.

8. Agios Charalambos Church

Agios Charalambos Church (credit: el.m.wikipedia.org)

A notable church is that of Agios Charalambos (map) in Exo Gonia village that was founded in 1705. It is one of the biggest churches of Santorini and due to its position it provides fantastic views. Α special characteristic is its tiled roof, a rare sight among the churches of the island. The size, the beautiful beige color and the lovely position make the visit totally worthy.