Paraportiani Church | Mykonos

Paraportiani Church is one of the most iconic and unique landmarks of Mykonos, Greece. It is located in the heart of Mykonos Town (Chora) and is famous for its distinctive architecture, which sets it apart from most other Greek churches. The church is a popular spot for both tourists and locals due to its architectural beauty, cultural significance, and its picturesque setting against the backdrop of the island's whitewashed buildings and blue skies.

Overview:

Location: Paraportiani Church is situated in the Kastro area of Mykonos Town. It is near the old town's harbor and can be easily reached by walking through the narrow streets of the town. The church is close to other popular landmarks, including the Mykonos Windmills and Little Venice.

Historical Significance:

• The name "Paraportiani" roughly translates to "the church of the outer gate", referring to its location next to the outer gate of the old Mykonos Castle (Kastro). The church has been a significant part of the island's religious life for centuries.
• The construction of Paraportiani began in the 15th century and continued over several centuries, with the final touches completed in the 17th century. As such, the church combines elements from different architectural styles and periods.

Architectural Features:

Unique Design:

• Paraportiani Church is famous for its unconventional and asymmetrical architecture. Unlike typical Greek Orthodox churches, which usually have a single dome, Paraportiani is composed of five smaller churches, built one on top of the other, creating an overall compound structure that looks almost like a maze.
• The church has a central dome at the top, and its four smaller chapels are arranged around it in a way that creates a unique and irregular silhouette. This design gives the church its distinctive, sculptural appearance, which is often likened to a white sculpture.

Five Churches in One:

• The structure of Paraportiani is divided into five distinct churches:
  • The lower level consists of a small chapel dedicated to St. Eustathios.
  • The middle level houses three separate chapels, each dedicated to different saints: St. Anastasia, St. George, and St. Nicholas.
  • The upper level features a larger church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which is the central church of the complex.
• These five churches were built at different times and were progressively connected over the centuries, making the overall structure a blend of architectural styles and elements.

Whitewashed Exterior:

• As is typical with many buildings on Mykonos, Paraportiani Church has a pure whitewashed exterior. The white color of the church, in combination with its curved, irregular shape, allows it to stand out against the blue skies and the Aegean Sea, creating a striking contrast with the landscape around it. The clean white appearance of the church is particularly stunning during the daytime when the sunlight accentuates its architectural features.

Dome and Steeple:

• The church has a prominent dome at the top, which is the most visible part of the structure. The dome is supported by smaller, cylindrical structures. The overall shape is asymmetrical, creating a fluid and organic design that is very different from the traditional, rectangular churches found elsewhere in Greece.

Architectural Influence:

• The architectural design of Paraportiani reflects the influence of the Byzantine and Venetian periods, with elements of both styles integrated into the church. The use of different styles, along with the layering of different structures, makes Paraportiani an example of folk architecture that evolved over time to suit the local needs and available resources.

Cultural and Religious Significance:

Religious Importance: Paraportiani Church is an active place of worship and is particularly important to the local community. It is used for religious services and celebrations, including the feast of the Virgin Mary on August 15th, which is one of the most significant religious holidays in Greece. On this day, the church is filled with worshippers and visitors who come to celebrate with the local community.

Iconography: The interior of Paraportiani Church is modest, in keeping with the traditional Greek Orthodox style. It has religious icons, an altar, and a few murals, but the church is simpler compared to larger churches and cathedrals in Greece. The focus of Paraportiani is more on its external architecture and its role in the community than on elaborate interior decoration.

Cultural Symbol: The church is a symbol of the island’s rich cultural and religious history. It is one of the most photographed locations on Mykonos due to its unique and striking architectural style, and it often appears in promotional materials and travel guides as one of the island's most iconic landmarks.

Visitor Experience:

Accessibility: Paraportiani Church is easy to reach from Mykonos Town, and visitors can walk through the narrow streets of Chora to reach it. The church is located in a tranquil spot away from the hustle and bustle of the main town, offering visitors a peaceful experience. It is free to visit, and there is no entry fee.

Best Time to Visit: The church is popular throughout the year, but it is especially busy during the summer months when Mykonos sees an influx of tourists. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon, when the light is softer and the crowds are smaller. The church looks particularly beautiful at sunset when the sun’s warm light casts a golden glow on the whitewashed exterior.

Photography: Paraportiani Church is one of the most photographed landmarks in Mykonos, particularly due to its beautiful, almost sculptural form and the scenic backdrop of Mykonos Town and the sea. Visitors often take pictures of the church against the blue skies or during the evening when the setting sun adds a romantic touch to the scene.

Conclusion:

Paraportiani Church is a must-see landmark for anyone visiting Mykonos. Its unique architectural style, combining several smaller churches into one, makes it stand out as a significant religious and cultural monument. The church's tranquil location, striking design, and the sweeping views of Mykonos Town and the surrounding sea make it a perfect spot to experience the island's beauty, history, and spirituality. Whether you're interested in its religious importance, architectural uniqueness, or simply looking for a picturesque place to visit, Paraportiani Church offers something special to all who come to explore it.