Patmos: Apocalypse Now!
Posted by White Key Villas on Mon, May 24, 2010
“A place of wonders both natural and divine, the Greek island of Patmos has drawn solace seekers for nearly 2,000 years – without ever losing its cool”
New york Times, Travel, Summer 2009
The Chora in Patmos
Some places are known for their invigorating field of energy; others for their nobility and beauty. Patmos, the spiritual island of the Dodecanese, is charismatic enough to be known for both. As such, it has managed to be one of the most authentic Greek destinations with a devoted following consisting of a most sophisticated international crowd.
Patmos has a strong religious history and is probably best known as the place where St. John received his visions and wrote the Book of Revelation in 95 AC. Ever since, people have been traveling far to absorb its spiritual heritage in the midst of peaceful Aegean beauty. Importantly enough, the small population of this remote island, as well as its refined visitors, have been most respectful of its history, not allowing it to become overly touristy and keeping Patmos delightfully unspoiled.
The two important settlements of Patmos are Skala, located right by the port and the very atmospheric Chora, which is situated on top of the hill, crowned by the island’s landmark, the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian – both declared as World Heritage Sites. If the overall history and tranquility of the island sound not inciting enough yet, the magical scenery of the Chora will definitely captivate you.
Picturesque cobbled alleys cut like small rivers through beautiful mansions of 17th century architectural style, which testify to the wealthy society of a different epoch. Noble bohemians from all over the world have fallen in love with the Chora’s ambience. They have bought and beautifully restored the traditional mansions, keeping the unique spirit of this old town alive. The magnificent facades are intriguing; the richly and beautifully decorated interiors are unique and stunning. Patmos is not to be measured with modern standards of luxury; it is not about open spaces, minimal design and beachfront sea views. Its essence lies in the authentic and timeless spirit to be found in every thoughtful detail comprising these villas. Walking in the small alleys with their beautiful stone pavements, among the stylish mansions with their precious antiques and distinguished class, you will get transferred into a different era enjoying a different state of mind. No wonder that numerous celebrities choose Patmos for finding inspiration and peace of mind and that Forbes Magazine has included it among the most idyllic places to live in Europe.
We fully agree that this is exactly what makes Patmos worth visiting. If you want to experience the island in its full grace, you should stay in one of the traditional residences in the Chora, which give an entirely unique definition to the term “luxury villa”. We can suggest some of the most historical and magnificent Villas in Patmos: Villa Annarella, Villa Vittoria and Villa Artemide. Being enamored of this island ourselves, we have treasure hunted for exceptional residences even for our most demanding guests; if you want to stay in an authentic Patmos residence, without missing out on the more luxurious qualities like a private pool and the wonderful Aegean sea view, then, Villa Penelope is just the rare seafront estate you were looking for! And for the most romantic among you, the Honeymoon Suite is a spellbinding residence for a single couple.
Even in the unlikely event that you get bored of this spiritual and very bohemian atmosphere, there is always the option to rent a boat and sail your thoughts to one of the neighboring islands for a while. However, be aware that your heart will probably stay in Patmos forever.
Get more information on Patmos here.