Church of Panagia Paraportiani, Mykonos (must see)

The Church of Panagia Paraportiani is one of the most beautiful churches on the island of Mykonos, located in the Kastro neighborhood of Chora, the name called by locals. Overlooking the Aegean Sea, the church impresses with its unique architectural style and history behind its construction.

Panagia Paraportiani means "Our Lady of the Side Gate" (or Virgin Mary Standing Next to the Entrance Door) in Greek and has its entrance at the side gate of the Kastro neighborhood.

What makes this church so unique is its construction - an asymmetrical conglomeration of 5 churches, built gradually over the centuries. The churches dedicated to Saint Efstathios, Saint Anargyros, Saint Sozon, and Saint Anastasia are at the ground level and made the foundation of the fifth church, Panagia Paraportiani.

Some sources show that the first church, Saint Anargyros, began in 1425. Others state that the church was completed in the late 1300s. What is known is that the final church, the Church of the Virgin Mary, was completed during the 17th century.

The church features a Cycladic architectural style with whitewashed walls, minimal aesthetics, a daring style, and smooth-edged corners. A large dome that dominates the building nearly merges with the roof. The absence of external decorations and unusual shape made the church notable.

The Church of Panagia Paraportiani, one of the most recognizable and photographed churches on the island, has been declared a national monument.