Skopelos Church of Agios Ioannis Kastri (Mamma Mia Church)

Location: Agios Ioannis

On the northeastern coast of Skopelos, perched on a 100-meter-high steep rock jutting out from the shore, visitors will find the iconic Church of Agios Ioannis, which has gained international renown as the shooting location of the Mamma Mia wedding scene.

According to tradition, the construction of the chapel is related to the miraculous discovery of an icon of Saint John the Forerunner. As the story goes, a fisherman noticed a bright light glowing from the top of the cliff on several occasions as he was returning home at night. Eventually, a female figure appeared in his dreams, revealing the icon's existence to him. The fisherman took it home, but it kept returning to this location, which led to the decision for the establishment of this quaint chapel.

Though the interior itself is quite plain, the climb up the 106 steps chiseled on the rock is worth every minute of the effort you will put into it. Indeed, from the top of the cliff, the view of the sparkling seascape and the verdant cliffs surrounding the shore is truly magical and makes for a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Even if you’re not a Mamma Mia fan, don’t miss the chance to marvel at these breathtaking vistas and swim in the waters of the lovely beach of Agios Ioannis, which stretches right beside the chapel. A small canteen can also be found nearby, allowing you to enjoy a refreshment after the ascent.

To reach Agios Ioannis Church at Kastri, follow the road connecting Skopelos Town to Glossa and turn left, as indicated by the road signs. Should you happen to visit Skopelos in late August, the best thing to do is to get there on the 29th, when a lively feast is held in honor of the saint’s feast day.