Monastery of Saint John the Theologian

The Monastery of Saint John the Theologian is a fortified complex on the highest elevation of Patmos island, featuring massive walls, defensive towers and several church buildings. Within the outer walls lie courtyards, cells and a main church connected by narrow passages and stairs.

Christodoulos began construction in the late eleventh century after receiving the island from the Byzantine ruler. Over the following centuries, additional fortifications were added to guard against raids by pirates and foreign fleets.

The name comes from John the Evangelist, who wrote his revelation here and whose teachings the monks still follow today. Many pilgrims visit the chapels, where they light candles and gather in the courtyard as the community celebrates daily services inside the old halls.

Visitors should wear long trousers or skirts and cover their shoulders when entering the grounds. The climb to the summit follows steep paths, so sturdy footwear is recommended, especially in warm weather.

The library holds over twelve hundred medieval manuscripts, including rare texts once thought lost in Europe. Some imperial documents still bear gold seals that testify to their origin in Constantinople.