WELCOME IN AEGEAN JERUSALEM – The island of Patmos, Greece

When your ferry drops anchor in the harbor of Skala, from large protected cove you’ll see the city, but before choosing your hotel safely down to the cafeteria Arion. Sit down, relax and watch the boats, and even the little boats headed to the beaches of this island. Look up, you’ll see the ruins of the acropolis of Kastelli, wanting to go up there – starting from Baia Merichas – the hour of sunset. To the north of the bay you can find the pebble beach Meloi (with a campsite, a tavern and comfortable boat-taxi back to Skala). From Skala, a cobblestone path climbs to the Monastery of St. John, one of the major places of worship of Christianity. http://www.visitgreece.gr/en/contact/gnto_offices_abroad

This monastery like a castle has protected religious treasures (200 icons, 300 silvers and a stunning collection of jewelry), which recall today thousands of visitors, but in past centuries lured pirates. We are at the main entrance to the convent, looks up, you’ll see the cracks from which he poured boiling oil on the besiegers. The most beautiful fresco is the one showing the hospitality of Abraham (in the chapel of Panagia), but do not forget to observe the two marble tables of the refectory (come from the Temple of Artemis). In the main church you will admire the icon of St. John. If you choose to arrive at Easter, on Thursday you can enjoy the ceremony Niptir (a ritual that was performed also at the time of the Byzantine emperors), observing the abbot of St. John who washes the feet of 12 friars.

http://www.patmos-island.com/