August 4, 2015

The Picturesque Chapel of the Holy Seven Martyrs in Sifnos


One of the 365 churches of the Greek island of Sifnos is the picturesque Chapel of the Holy Seven Youths of Ephesus, more popularly known as the Chapel of the Holy Seven Martyrs. It is built on a cliff, on the eastern corner of the castle, amid the old capital of the island known as Kastro, with its ruins of the acropolis of ancient Sifnos and its famous medieval town. Many couples get married in this chapel.

It is probably the most photographed spot of Sifnos island. When the wind blows strong, the church is hit by the strong waves and creates a wild, picturesque scene. The Chapel of the Seven Martyrs is built according to the traditional Cycladic architecture, as it is painted white and has a round, blue dome. It is linked to the main island with some stairs along the rock. A few people swim by this church, but this can end up pretty dangerous because of the abrupt rocks and the winds that blow often. It is usually closed and open for the pilgrims only on special occasions and religious celebrations.