Panagia Paraportiani Church is a remarkable architectural complex, and the weathering over time has contributed to its extraordinary beauty.
If you ask the Mykonians will tell you that their island is home to 365 churches – one for each day of the year. However, Panagia Paraportiani is by far the most famous.
“Paraportiani” got its name from the fact that it is located next to the small gate, the “paraport” of the medieval wall of Mykonos. In fact, it is a two-storey complex of five (5) churches, the four of which are on the ground floor and only one is elevated. It is precisely this church that bears the name of Panagia Paraportiani.
It was built between the 16th and 17th century due to its unique architectural heritage, it has become an important monument not only for Mykonos but also for the whole of the Aegean. It is, without a doubt, one of the most photographed sights of Greece.
Sitting in central Chora, this somber whitewashed church dates back to the Byzantine era and features a variety of religious decorations dating back to the Middle Ages.
In fact, it’s actually five churches constructed together. From its main entrance, you’ll have spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Some admirers of the church recommended going at sunset, when the changing light makes the structure especially breathtaking.
You don’t have to pay to visit Paraportiani Church. The building itself is rarely open, according to recent visitors, but it remains worth seeing even if only from the outside.