When you think of Mykonos you think of one of the most popular party islands of the Greek islands, The truth of the matter is that it is also one of the most adorned islands with traditionally styled churches and charming little chapels.
Why does this island have as many chapels and churches?
There is a total of some 600 to 800 churches on the island of Mykonos, which ends up resulting in one church or chapel per local family!
Although the majority of small churches and chapels are thought to be constructed as the centerpiece of the yearly religious festivals called “Paniguria”, which take place in honor of the Virgin Mary, there are many reasons why the hillsides of Mykonos are packed with these stunning religious structures.
Many of the churches and chapels on the island date back to the Byzantine era up until the 19th century, and have been declared historical monuments by the Greek Ministry of Culture.
Mykonos Town (Chora) alone has over 60 churches, so you should definitely visit some of them while on Mykonos. Here is a sample of what the island has to offer:
Panagia Paraportiani is a popular destination as this unique complex of five churches, four of which are on the ground and the fifth on the roof, has become known as an iconic symbol of the island of Mykonos. It is located in Kastro.
Agia Kyriaki is a charming little church and is located in Agia Kyriaki square in Mykonos Town. Its red-painted domes and white-washed walls are the backdrop to a modern-day cafeteria where many locals and tourists sit and enjoy the church while sipping coffee.
Agios Nikolaos off the Harbor in the old port of Mykonos is known by locals as “Agios Nikolakis”, denoting its small size. It is located in the old port of Mykonos Town along the sea and was built in the 4th century to honor Saint Nikolaos, the patron saint of fisherman.
The only Catholic church on the island has been dedicated to the Virgin of St. Rosary since 1668 and is called the Catholic church of Panagia Rodario.
The church caught on fire on May Day in 1991 and the icon of the Virgin of Rosary suffered damage although it has since been restored. Services still take place in this small church year round.