Friday, July 16, 2010
• The Island
The island of Patmos – the northernmost island of the Dodecanese complex - is one of the most spectacular destinations in the Aegean.
A small island with barely 3,000 permanent residents enjoys world-wide fame for its religious past since it was here that St John the Divine wrote the Book of Revelation (The Apocalypse). It may not attract hordes of tourists as other islands, but it has loyal visitors who have been holidaying there year after year for over three decades now. 
In 1999 its historic centre (Chora) with the Monastery of Saint-John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The impressive fortress of Chora stands out as the visitor approaches the island. The narrow cobble-stone pathways form a formidable maze leading to the edges of the fortress from which one can enjoy the view to the whole of the island – preferably, just before sunset. Exquisite, renovated traditional houses are hidden behind impressive doors.
In 1999 its historic centre (Chora) with the Monastery of Saint-John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The impressive fortress of Chora stands out as the visitor approaches the island. The narrow cobble-stone pathways form a formidable maze leading to the edges of the fortress from which one can enjoy the view to the whole of the island – preferably, just before sunset. Exquisite, renovated traditional houses are hidden behind impressive doors.
Skala is the main port of the island. Around the 16th century it was one of the most important commercial ports in the Mediterranean. Today, it is bustling with restaurants, cafes, and nice little gift shops. From there one may visit other villages and beaches.
The most popular are Kampos village -on a hill- and Kampos beach – which is kids-friendly and particularly attractive to visitors who want to enjoy all kinds of water sports. To the north, there is Lambi, known for its wide variety of colourful pebbles. Grikos, Agriolivadi, Psili Ammos, Meloi are but some of the most popular.
• Patmos Int’l Film Festival
There is one more reason to visit the island and combine relaxation with culture: the 1st International Film Festival of Patmos (IFFP) is being launched this summer and will run from July 19 to 25.
The IFFP is organized by a committed team of film professionals who aim to establish a new platform for Greek and international filmmakers to showcase their work and communicate innovative ideas and film styles in a summer setting.
