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Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist: A Catholic Beacon in Fira

Discover Santorini's Catholic heart: A vibrant cathedral with Baroque architecture and stunning views in the heart of Fira.

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The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, a Roman Catholic church in Fira, stands out with its peach-colored facade and blue accents. Rebuilt in 1975 after an earthquake, it offers a unique architectural contrast to Santorini's traditional blue and white churches.

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Local tips

  • Attend the Sunday Mass at 10 am for a unique cultural experience with multilingual participation.
  • Take some time to admire the interior's unique color palette, contrasting with the typical blue and white churches of Santorini.
  • Enjoy the panoramic views of the sea and Fira's central square from the cathedral's elevated location.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Cathedral is located in the heart of Fira, making it easily accessible on foot from most points in the town. From Fira's main square (Theotokopoulos Square), walk towards the Catholic neighborhood. The cathedral is approximately a 10-minute walk from the bus station and 5 minutes from a private parking lot. Look for the distinctive peach and blue bell tower, which serves as a prominent landmark.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus, disembark at the Fira central bus station. From there, walk towards the town center and follow signs for the Catholic Cathedral. The walk is approximately 10 minutes. Bus tickets cost between €2.00 and €2.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis can drop you off near the main square in Fira, from where you can easily walk to the Cathedral. A taxi from the Santorini Airport to Fira typically costs between €20 and €40. Ensure the driver knows you want to go to the Catholic Cathedral in the Catholic quarter.

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Discover more about Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist

Located in the heart of Fira, the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist serves as the Catholic center of Santorini. This vibrant church, dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, provides a striking contrast to the island's predominantly blue and white Orthodox churches. Originally built in 1823, the cathedral faced severe damage during the 1956 earthquake. It was painstakingly restored and reopened in 1975, becoming a symbol of resilience for the Catholic community on the island. The architecture showcases a unique Baroque style, setting it apart from other religious buildings in Santorini. The exterior features a peach-colored facade adorned with blue elements, including a tall bell tower that also functions as a clock tower. Inside, visitors will find a beautifully decorated interior with portraits of saints and other religious figures. The play of colors, including blue, orange, and cream accents, creates a serene and prayerful atmosphere. The cathedral's location offers stunning views of the seaside and Fira's central square, making it a worthwhile visit for both religious pilgrims and architecture enthusiasts. Sunday Mass is held at 10 am, offering a welcoming experience for tourists with multilingual recitations.

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