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Agios Ioannis Kastri: The Mamma Mia Church

Visit the iconic Mamma Mia Church in Skopelos: a stunning clifftop chapel with breathtaking views and rich history. A must-see Greek island gem.

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Perched dramatically atop a towering rock off the coast of Skopelos, the chapel of Agios Ioannis Kastri, also known as the Mamma Mia Church, offers stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into Greek island history. Made famous by the movie 'Mamma Mia,' this picturesque church is a must-see for its breathtaking location and cultural significance.

A brief summary to Mamma Mia Cliff

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the climb up the steps to the church.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
  • Bring water, especially during the summer months.
  • Take a swim in the sea below the church to cool off after the climb.
  • Consider visiting on August 29th for the feast day of St. John, featuring lively celebrations.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Skopelos Town, follow the main road towards Glossa. After approximately 14 kilometers, near a Shell fuel station, turn left onto the smaller road leading to Agios Ioannis Kastri. The drive offers scenic views. Parking is available near the base of the rock. Be cautious as the road can be narrow and winding.

  • Public Transport

    Take the bus from Skopelos Town to Glossa. From Glossa, you can take a taxi to Agios Ioannis Kastri. The bus from Skopelos Town to Glossa costs approximately €5. A taxi from Glossa to the church may cost around €25-€50, so it is advisable to negotiate the price beforehand.

  • Walking

    For those staying in Glossa, a rewarding hike to Agios Ioannis Kastri is possible. The walk is approximately 6.5 kilometers and takes around 1.5 hours. Follow the main road from Glossa towards the church, enjoying the scenery along the way. Be prepared for some uphill sections and wear appropriate footwear.

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Discover more about Mamma Mia Cliff

Agios Ioannis Kastri, often called the Mamma Mia Church, is a captivating landmark on the Greek island of Skopelos. This small, yet iconic, chapel is perched atop a 100-meter-high rock formation that juts out into the Aegean Sea. Its fame skyrocketed after it was featured in the movie 'Mamma Mia,' where it served as the location for Sophie's wedding. The church's origins are rooted in local legend. According to the tale, a fisherman from Glossa witnessed a mysterious light emanating from the rock. A dream then revealed to him that an icon of Saint John the Forerunner was hidden atop the rock. The fisherman found the icon and brought it to a nearby chapel, but it miraculously returned to its original location. This led the islanders to build a chapel on the rock itself, believing that the saint wished to remain there. The church was built in the 18th century. To reach Agios Ioannis Kastri, visitors must climb approximately 200 steps carved into the rock. Although the ascent can be challenging, the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort. From this vantage point, you can see the stunning Skopelos coastline and, on a clear day, even glimpse the island of Alonissos. The interior of the church is small and simple, adorned with religious icons and ecclesiastical items. Below the rock, a small beach with crystal-clear waters invites visitors for a refreshing swim. A nearby canteen offers drinks and snacks. While the wedding scene in 'Mamma Mia' was filmed at Agios Ioannis Kastri, the interior shots were actually filmed in a Hollywood studio. The church is a popular spot for weddings.

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