The 163 islands of the Dodecanese group include the well known Rhodes and Kos and are famous for their history of changing ownership, their unusual architecture and natural beauty.

There are several sites of archaeological interest and the ruins of many Byzantine churches and medieval crusader castles built with a style that blends that of both the eastern and western architecture.

Patmos is one of the most historically interesting of the island group. John the Apostle was exiled here when he wrote the Christian “Book of Revelation”. Patmos’s meticulously preserved town centre with the Monastery of St. John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse were listed by UNESCO as World Heritage sites in 2006.

As well as the historic and religious attractions, Patmos has several sandy beaches, good hiking terrain and a beautiful coastline for both sailing and walking. It is also quieter than many of the other islands in its group and there are less discos, organised activities and tourist infrastructure.

The Dodecanese Islands.

Written by  Lindsay Drury.

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