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

Discover Santorini's Catholic heritage at the beautifully restored Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist in Fira, a unique architectural gem.

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The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, a Roman Catholic church in Fira, Santorini, stands out with its unique architecture and resilient history. Rebuilt in 1975 after a devastating earthquake, it offers a contrasting yet beautiful presence among the island's traditional blue and white churches.

A brief summary to Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist

Local tips

  • Attend the Sunday Mass at 10 am for a unique cultural experience, especially welcoming to tourists with multilingual elements.
  • Take a moment to admire the interior's blend of Catholic and Greek architectural styles, including the stained glass and religious artwork.
  • Explore the Catholic neighborhood surrounding the cathedral, near Fira's upper cable car station, for local shops and eateries.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Theotokopoulos Square in the center of Fira, walk towards the Catholic quarter. The cathedral is located near the upper cable car station, a short walk from the main square. The walk is generally easy, though it involves some stairs and inclines typical of Fira.

  • Public Transport

    Take the local bus to Fira's central bus station. From there, it's a short walk to the Catholic quarter and the cathedral. Bus tickets cost approximately €1.60 - €2.30.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Santorini. A taxi from the Santorini Airport (JTR) to Fira will cost approximately €30. From the Fira taxi rank, it is a short walk to the Cathedral. Confirm the fare before starting your journey.

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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 striking cathedral, distinguished by its peach-colored facade and blue accents, offers a contrast to the ubiquitous blue and white churches that define the island's landscape. The cathedral's prominent bell tower, which also functions as a clock tower, adds to its unique architectural character. Originally constructed in the 17th century by Jesuit missionaries, the cathedral played a crucial role in spreading Catholicism on Santorini. The original structure was almost completely destroyed during the 1956 earthquake that devastated much of the island. It was rebuilt and reopened in 1975. Inside, visitors can admire portraits of saints and other religious figures. The interior features a blend of blue, orange, and cream accents, with a striking chandelier hanging beneath a religious painting on the domed ceiling. The cathedral's design is considered a union of Catholic and Greek architectural elements. Today, the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist stands as a testament to Santorini's resilient spirit and rich cultural heritage. It remains an active place of worship, with Mass held for tourists every Sunday at 10 am.

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