Patmos Geography

The island of Patmos lies on the eastern borderline of the Aegean Sea and is the northernmost island of the Dodecanese complex. It has a total area of 34 square kilometers and a coastline of about 60 kilometers. Patmos is at a distance of 158 nautical miles from the main harbor of Athens, Piraeus. The island is made up of three indented headlands which are linked by two isthmuses with a width of about 2 km.

The geography of Patmos is mountainous and rocky. Its landscape also boasts low barren hills and a small plateau. Its coastline is lacy, with various gulfs forming countless picturesque bays, coves, and dreamlike beaches. The most important gulf of Patmos is Skala, which is also the main harbor of the island. Many other gulfs line the island, particularly its western, eastern, and southern sides.

The highest peak of Patmos is Mount Prophet Elias, rising at an altitude of 269 meters. Some more impressive mountains are scattered around the island. Another noteworthy feature of the island of Patmos is its great amount of capes such as the capes of Koumana, Gernos, Livadi, Genoupas, and many more.

Patmos has a population of about 2500 inhabitants, mostly concentrated in its main harbor, Skala, in the capital of the island, Chora (or Patmos Town), and in the village of Kambos. Chora is distinguished for its collection of whitewashed houses, well-preserved mansions, and monasteries, each bearing characteristics of the varied and impressive architecture of the island. In 1999, Chora along with the Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites because of their unique religious significance.

Small islets can be found in proximity to the island of Patmos. The largest one is Chiliomodi, followed by Tragonisi. Further north are the islets of Santa Thecla, Saint George, and Agathonisi. Southeast of Patmos lie the islands of Arki and Marathi.

Discover the Map of Patmos
View the map of Patmos with the main villages, beaches, and sights, as well as the location of the port.
View: Map of Patmos