GRIKOS

The popular summer settlement of Grikos (Agrikia=Farm /Agrikos /Grikos), is a significant point of attraction because of its long beach, crystal waters and beautiful pier. Tragonissi faces the bay, and on each side it is surrounded by two peninsulas. The transport both by land and by sea is regular. In the summer months, the area is an important touristic resort with its many pensions, hotels and tavernas which await their prospective visitors.

KAMBOS

This picturesque settlement situated on the north side of the island, is 11 km from Hora. The main village is Pano Kambos with the exquisite, solemn church of the Annunciation. The Kato Kambos is a small seaside settlement of approximately 400 inhabitants. It has a verdant countryside full of orchards, pine trees, and olive groves. Its enchanting beach is a point of attraction for both inhabitants and visitors. One can find many tavernas that offer a rich variety of food and good service. During the summer months, there is also regular boat service from and to Hora. Near Kambos there are the seaside settlements of Vagia and Livadi. One can visit the monastery of Panagia tou Apollu, the small church of Panagia tou Geranou on the Geranos hill near Vagia, and the church of St Nicholas the Evdimos, or Avdellos, one of the oldest churches on the island.

PATMOS

The traditional settlement of Patmos (Hora) was built in the 13th century, around a monastery. Its development began in the 16th century, when the captains residences were built, many of which are now rented or have been sold to international celebrities. In the same century, the first mansions began to make their appearance. One of the most celebrated is Sofolio, which was built in 1522. In 1606, the houses of the first settlement, in the side of the monastery, are being demolished and on their place new mansions were built: The Simandiri, Sifandu, Pangosta and others. A road that connects Hora and Skala was constructed by Nektarios of Sardis in 1794. The characteristic features of the town are the numerous mansions, the dazzling white houses, the quaint narrow alleyways, the churches, the squares, and the flower-filled courtyards where you can rest or take beautiful walks. Strolling around the town, one can also see picturesque gift shops, cafes, and small hotels. The most important sights of the town are the cave of the Apocalypse halfway between Hora and Skala, the castle of Agios Ioannis, the Patmian School, the Prophet Elias, and the Monastery of the Annunciation. Other noteworthy sights are the churches of Agios Fokas and Agia Aikaterini, and the bust of Emmanuel Xanthos, member of the "Society of Friends" and student of the Patmian School.

SKALA

Skala is the main harbour of the island and is situated 3 km northeast of Hora. In the 17th century, the security of the island was limited because the pirates which anchored there for water supplies and repairs plundered the island for its animals. The development of the town began in the 19th century with the arrival of new inhabitants, and the area was transformed into a business and shipping center. In 1912-1948 the offices of the Italian guard, the customs office, and the post office were built. After the liberation from the Italian occupation, Skala grew even more as new houses, hotels, and enterprises were created. The touristic growth has also been swift. On one side of the town, there is the port with its wide pier and its enchanting beach, and on the west side lies Hohlakas bay. Amongst the most important sights of the town are the ruins of the acropolis, the lovely islet Petrokaravo, and the 17th century church of Agia Paraskevi of Cavos, which is on the way to Grikos and offers a panoramic view over Skala. Near there are also the church of Panagia Koumana and the convent of Zoodochos Pigi.