If you’re someone who always wants to explore different cultures and learn about the history of the destination they’re visiting yet also wants to let loose and relax, the Island of the Winds is the perfect place for you. Mykonian culture is fascinating, with many churches and monasteries in Mykonos that will astound you and give you an insight into the Greek religion and culture.
There Are Many Churches and Monasteries in Mykonos That Paint the Best Picture of Greek Heritage
While Mykonos is known for its glamorous reputation and crazy nightlife, there’s much more to this party island than meets the eye. The Island of the Winds has an extremely rich history and culture, and it’s one of the longest-inhabited Greek islands in the Cyclades. This gorgeous destination has been through a lot, from pirate attacks to wars, and there are several valuable buildings that have survived it all and live on to tell the stories.
If you’re looking for prime examples of the Greek cultural heritage, you need to go on a tour of churches and monasteries in Mykonos and experience their beauty and sanctity, so here is a short guide on the most important ones.
When It Comes to Churches in Mykonos, Panagia Paraportiani Is the Most Significant One
If you’re wondering where to start your tour, it should be with the most architecturally and historically significant building – the beautiful church of Panagia Paraportiani. It’s the most popular cultural site, with good reason. The fascinating building is a temple dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and even though it’s not in service at this time, it’s still the most important building on the island.
The name actually translates to “Our Lady of the Side Gate.” It’s a classic example of Cycladic architecture style – short houses with whitewashed walls, domed roofs, blue accents on the doors and windows, and Mediterranean bell towers. The construction of this site began all the way back in 1425, and it wasn’t finished until the 1600s.
The Church of Panagia Paraportiani is actually a complex of five smaller churches that were gradually built over the years. The complex is located in the heart of the Old Town of Chora, very close to all the attractions – the Old Port and the famous windmills, as well as the best restaurants where you can grab lunch if you need a break from sightseeing.
The Catholic Church of Panagia Rodario Holds Services Every Sunday
The gorgeous Panagia Rodario is the only Catholic church on the island, and even though it was originally built in 1668, the church is still open to all Catholic locals and tourists and hosts services each Sunday. It’s located in Chora, on the Alefkandra square.
Go to the Beautiful Village of Ano Mera and Visit the Monastery of Paleokastro and Panagia Tourliani
If you want to see some of the most fascinating sites on the island, you will need to take a short trip to the charming village of Ano Mera, where you will find two most important monasteries – the monastery of Paleokastro and Panagia Tourliani.
Both of them are built in classic Greek island architecture style, with whitewashed walls, colorful accents on the doors and windows, and domed roofs, and they both have fascinating iconostasis. The Monastery of Paleokastro dates back to the 18th century, while Panagia Tourlinani is even older, with its construction starting way back in 1542.
Agios Nikolaos Church Is Located in the Heart of the Old Town of Chora
If you want to see the most picturesque, beautiful little church, head to the Old Town of Chora, walk towards the Old Port, and you will see it right at the edge, next to the water. Agios Nikolaos, built in honor of St Nicholas – the protector of fishermen and sailors, is an old building dating back to the 18th century. The building fits into the classic Greek house style, with whitewashed walls, bright blue wooden doors and windows, a domed blue roof, and even cute little blue benches all around.
Book a Yacht Rental in Mykonos for Your Cruise and Explore Agios Fokas in Paros or St Nikolaos Church in Naxos
Greek heritage is the gift that keeps on giving. It’s a collection of thousands and thousands of years of culture, and while Mykonian culture is a great place to start exploring, it’s just the tip of the iceberg. If you’d like to explore further and take in as much of the culture as possible, then why not go on a day cruise to the neighboring islands in the Cyclades?
Visit Naxos, Paros, Antiparos, Rhenia, or Delos, and go sightseeing. All of these beautiful islands are filled with countless churches and monasteries that will enrich your trip. Just book a Mykonos yacht rental and sail off into your adventure.
Contact Us and Book the Vacation of Your Dreams in One of the Most Beautiful and Culturally Significant Destinations in Greece
If you want to spend your summer vacation in a little piece of paradise, swimming in some of the best beaches in Greece, trying delicious Greek cuisine, and exploring the fascinating culture, then you need to book your spot on the Island of the Winds as soon as possible. Contact us at The Ace VIP and we will make sure to provide you with all the travel arrangements needed for a magical stay.
Choose one of our fantastic Mykonos luxury villas and experience what endless luxury and comfort feel like. Rely on our concierge VIP services in Mykonos to provide you with anything you may need during your stay – your wish is our command. Whether you need table reservations or a tour guide, your Mykonos concierge will take care of it. And of course, don’t forget to rent a car so you can get around easier and get to see all the fascinating attractions this destination has to offer.
Text Us!