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Chapel of St. John (Ioannis): Skopelos' Cliffside Icon

Discover the iconic Mamma Mia chapel in Skopelos: breathtaking views, rich history, and a memorable climb await!

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Perched dramatically atop a towering rock, the Chapel of St. John (Ioannis) is a picturesque Greek Orthodox church on the island of Skopelos. Famous for its appearance in the movie *Mamma Mia*, the chapel offers stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and a memorable climb up 198 steps.

A brief summary to Chapel of St. John (Ioannis)

  • Skopelos, 370 03, GR

Local tips

  • Arrive early or late in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the climb up the steps can be demanding.
  • Bring water, especially during hot weather, as there is limited shade during the ascent.
  • Take your time climbing the steps and use the handrails for support.
  • Check local schedules for religious ceremonies to enhance your visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Skopelos Town, take the local bus towards Glossa. Get off the bus a couple of stops before Glossa. From there, walk or take a taxi to the chapel. Buses run frequently during the high season but may be less regular at other times. Check the bus schedule at the bus station in Skopelos Town. A single bus fare from Skopelos Town to Glossa is approximately €3. A taxi from Glossa to the chapel costs around €10-€15.

  • Driving

    From Skopelos Town, follow the signs towards Glossa. Before reaching Glossa, look for a sign on the right pointing to the Chapel of St. John. Turn onto this road and follow it for approximately 5 km down to the chapel. Be aware that the road is narrow and steep in places, so drive carefully. Parking is available near the base of the steps leading up to the chapel. Parking is free, but can be limited during peak season.

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Discover more about Chapel of St. John (Ioannis)

The Chapel of St. John (Ioannis), also known as Agios Ioannis sto Kastri, is a captivating landmark on the island of Skopelos. This iconic Greek Orthodox church is perched atop a steep rock formation, approximately 100 meters above the sea, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding coastline. Its fame was amplified after it served as a filming location for the movie *Mamma Mia*, where it was featured in the wedding scene. The chapel's dramatic location and cinematic connection draw many visitors, making it a must-see destination on Skopelos. The chapel's origins are shrouded in local legend. One story tells of a fisherman who repeatedly saw a light atop the rock. In a dream, a woman revealed to him that a religious icon was hidden there. The fisherman climbed the rock and found the icon of St. John the Baptist, which he took to a nearby chapel. However, the icon kept returning to its original location on the rock, leading the islanders to build a chapel there in its honor. The feast of the chapel is celebrated on August 29th. To reach the chapel, visitors must ascend 198 steps carved into the rock. The climb can be challenging, but the stunning views from the top are well worth the effort. The interior of the chapel is small and simple, with beautiful icons and ecclesiastical items. Outside, benches provide a place to rest and admire the scenery. A small beach with crystal-clear water lies below the rock, offering a refreshing reward after the climb.

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