Church of Panagia Platsani, Santorini

The Church of Panagia Platsani is closely tied to the history of the former castle settlement. The original church stood within the walls of Oia Castle, but after the devastating earthquake of 1956, it was relocated. Architecturally, it follows the Cycladic style, with whitewashed walls, a blue dome, arched openings, and a prominent bell tower.

According to local tradition, the church’s origins are linked to the discovery of a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, found floating in the sea by a fisherman. When the icon was brought to a safe place, it was said to have mysteriously returned overnight to the castle area. This was repeated several times, and the townspeople interpreted it as a sign that the Virgin wished her place of worship to stand there. As a result, a church was built at that location, overlooking the sea, symbolically watching over sailors and vessels passing below.

As you enter from the main square, a large, prominent golden mosaic icon of the Virgin Mary is located directly above the main door. Inside, visitors will find the revered icon of Panagia, along with votive offerings left by sailors and families, reflecting Oia’s long maritime tradition. As you stand in the nave facing the iconostasis, the icon of the Virgin Mary is positioned to the right of the Royal Doors, opposite the icon of Christ. Look closely at the silver ex-votos shaped like ships, the hanging lamps, and the framed inscriptions expressing gratitude for safe journeys.

Step outside into the small square in front of the church, which serves as a central gathering point in Oia. Set into the pavement of the square is a circular marble mosaic, added during post-1956 reconstruction, depicting Santorini and its caldera, including the volcanic islets at the centre. Facing the church, the view opens toward the sea, reinforcing the long-held belief that the Virgin watches over passing vessels and those who travel by water.