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Paraportiani Church
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · GR

Paraportiani Church

Getting around: At the edge of the Kastro neighborhood in Mykonos Town, near the waterfront; fully walkable within the town center.
Hours: The exterior is always viewable; the interior is generally not open to visitors as it functions as an active but rarely-used church.

Actually a cluster of five small chapels fused together over centuries into one asymmetrical whitewashed structure, considered one of the most photographed churches in the Cyclades for its unusual, almost sculptural form — no sharp angles, just rounded, organic-looking whitewashed masses stacked against each other. It sits right at the water's edge in the Kastro quarter, one of the oldest parts of Mykonos Town.

The interior isn't generally open, so the appeal is entirely the exterior form, best appreciated at different times of day as the light changes across its curved surfaces, particularly around sunset.

It's a quick stop, a few minutes for photos, usually combined with a walk through the surrounding Kastro neighborhood and the nearby waterfront.

Paraportiani Church FAQs

Why does the church have such an unusual shape?

It's actually five small chapels built and merged together over centuries, resulting in the asymmetrical, rounded whitewashed form seen today.

Can I go inside?

Generally no, the interior isn't regularly open to visitors; it's mainly appreciated from the outside.

Where is it located?

In the Kastro neighborhood at the edge of Mykonos Town, right by the waterfront.

Is it a good sunset spot?

Yes, the changing light on its curved white surfaces makes it a popular photo subject, especially in late afternoon and around sunset.

How long should I spend there?

Just a few minutes for photos, typically as part of a broader walk through the old town.

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