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Cave of the Apocalypse: A Sacred Grotto on Patmos

Discover the sacred Cave of the Apocalypse on Patmos, where St. John received divine visions. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and spiritual pilgrimage.

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The Cave of the Apocalypse on the island of Patmos is where, according to Christian tradition, Saint John received his divine visions and wrote the Book of Revelation. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a significant pilgrimage destination, drawing visitors to experience its unique spiritual atmosphere.

A brief summary to Cave of the Apocalypse

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting, as it is a religious site. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Monastery of Saint John the Theologian for a comprehensive cultural experience.
  • Visit during the off-season (spring or fall) to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Take a guided tour to fully understand the historical and religious significance of the cave.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Cave of the Apocalypse is located approximately halfway between Skala (the port) and Chora (the main town). If you are in Skala, follow the main road towards Chora. The walk is uphill and takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Look for signs indicating the Cave of the Apocalypse. The entrance to the cave is a short walk from the main road. This is a free option.

  • Public Transport

    Buses connect Skala with Chora. From either Skala or Chora, you can take a bus that stops near the Cave of the Apocalypse. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information, as they may vary depending on the season. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the cave entrance. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1.50 - €2.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Skala and Chora. A taxi ride from Skala to the Cave of the Apocalypse will cost approximately €8-€10. The taxi will drop you off near the entrance of the cave.

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Discover more about Cave of the Apocalypse

The Cave of the Apocalypse, nestled between Skala and Chora on the island of Patmos, is a revered site in Christianity. It marks the spot where Saint John the Apostle, also known as John the Theologian, is believed to have received divine visions that he later recorded in the Book of Revelation. According to tradition, Saint John sought refuge in this cave around 95 AD during his exile to Patmos. While residing in the cave with his disciple Prochorus, it is said that the rocks cracked, forming three fissures symbolizing the Holy Trinity. Through these fissures, God's voice instructed St. John to document his visions of the final days and the creation of a new Earth. The cave has since been transformed into a place of worship. Visitors can see the rock indentation where St. John rested his head and the cleft in the rock from which the Voice of God was heard. In the 11th century, St. Christodoulos Latrinos initiated the cave's transformation into a place of worship, and a chapel was added in the 17th century. The southern part of the cave now houses a church dedicated to St. John the Theologian, and the Chapel of St. Anne was later added, incorporating the cave as its entrance. The site attracts many visitors during major Christian holidays, especially Easter, with solemn masses and religious rites reminiscent of those in Jerusalem. The Greek Parliament declared Patmos a sacred island in 1983, and in 1999, UNESCO recognized the Monastery, the Cave of the Apocalypse, and the village of Chora as a World Heritage Site.

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