Prophet Elias Monastery

Overview

The Monastery of Prophet Elias sits at Santorini's highest point (567 meters above sea level), providing unmatched 360-degree views of the island, the caldera, and the surrounding Cyclades. The 18th-century monastery houses a museum of ecclesiastical artifacts and is still home to a small community of Greek Orthodox monks.

Highlights

• Highest viewpoint: At 567 meters, the panorama encompasses the entire island, neighboring islands, and the caldera.
• Ecclesiastical museum: Icons, vestments, manuscripts, and liturgical objects spanning three centuries.
• Telecommunications towers: The summit also hosts radar and communications equipment, reflecting its strategic vantage point.

History

Founded in 1711 by monks from the Monastery of Patmos, Prophet Elias served as a secret school during the Ottoman occupation where Greek language and culture were taught clandestinely. During World War II, the occupying forces used the summit as a radar station. The monastery was returned to monks after the war and continues to function as a religious community.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Open intermittently — check locally for current visiting hours as they vary by season.
• Tip 2: The road up is steep and winding but fully paved; the views during the drive are worth the trip even if the monastery is closed.
• Duration: 30 minutes–1 hour.