Today we are going to look at some of the churches in Mykonos. Mykonos is a Greek island in the Aegean Sea, about 150 kilometers (93 miles) southeast of Athens. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece, known for its whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and lively nightlife.
A Little About Mykonos
The island is part of the Cyclades island group, and is located in the center of the Aegean Sea. It is about 86 square kilometers (33 square miles) in size, and has a population of about 10,000 people. The capital, Mykonos Town is located on the west coast. This picture perfect town is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways, lined with whitewashed houses and shops. There are also a number of beaches, churches and windmills in the town.
The Main Religion In Mykonos, Greece
The main religion is Greek Orthodox Christianity. 80% of the population of Mykonos is Greek Orthodox Christian. Thus the island has a number of churches, monasteries, and other religious sites. The most famous church in Mykonos is Panagia Paraportiani, which is a small, white-washed church that is located in the heart of Mykonos Town.
Churches Mykonos To Visit
There are more than 1000 churches on the Island of Mykonos. Many of these are private churches for families who want to worship alone. However there are a few you need to check out during your next trip and they are all within walking distance.
You will note that many of the churches are named starting with, Agios, Agia (Agia is the the feminine term) this means saintly or saint.
Panagia Paraportiani
Panagia Paraportiani (Church of the Virgin Mary of the Side Gate) is a whitewashed church in Mykonos Town, Greece. It is one of the most photographed churches in the world, and is a popular tourist destination.
The church can be found in the Kastro neighborhood. This is right by the sea, thus its name means “Our Lady of the Side Gate” in Greek, as its entrance was found in the side gate of the entrance to the Kastro area.
Panagia Paraportiani church is a beautiful example of Cycladic architecture. Made of white stone with a dome and a small bell tower. The church is a popular tourist destination, often visited by tourists visiting to Mykonos. And is a wonderfully peaceful place to visit, plus offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
Agios Nikolaos
Dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors and fishermen. Agios Nikolaos church is a small, white-washed church build in the 15th Centtury, right in the old port of Mykonos.
Built in the 15th century, the church is a very simple, one-room structure with a tiled roof and a bell tower.
Agios Charalambos
Agios Charalambos (Church of Saint Charalambos) is a small, white-washed church situated just behind the famous windmills, and offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding countryside.
Built in the 17th century, the church is dedicated to Saint Charalambos, a 4th-century martyr. The interior is decorated with icons and frescoes, and a small altar where services are held.
Agia Eleni Church in Mykonos Town
Metropolitan Church, in Mykonos Town, otherwise known as the “The Megali Panagia” is one of the main churches on the Island, make sure you visit as its simply beautiful.
The church is a large, white-washed building with a dome and a bell tower. The interior of the church has large altar where services are held.
The Catholic Church of Panagia Rodario
Panagia Rodario is a Roman Catholic church in Mykonos Town, Greece. It is the only Catholic church on the island. The church is located in Alefkandra Square, close to the windmills above Chora.
Built in 1668 and renovated in 1677. The church is a small, white-washed building with a blue dome and a bell tower, also sitting amidst flowers and the prettiest streets.
Metropolitan Church, in Mykonos Town
The Metropolitan Church of Mykonos, also known as Megali Panagia, is a large, white-washed church located in the center of Mykonos Town. It’s the seat of the Bishop of Mykonos and is one of the most important churches on the island.
Built in the 17th century the Metropolitan church is a beautiful example of Cycladic architecture. It has a stunning bell tower and sits in the prettiest of squares. The spacious and airy interior has a large altar where services are held.
These are just a few of the suspected 1000 churches in Mykonos. The island is home to a wide variety of churches, each with its own unique history and architecture. Thus visiting the churches and wandering the glorious streets of Mykonos is a great way to learn about the island’s history and culture.
