Three Bells of Fira, Santorini (must see)

The Three Bells of Fira, officially known as the Catholic Church of the Dormition, belongs to the Greek Catholic Church and falls under the jurisdiction of the Catholic Diocese of Santorini, following the Byzantine liturgical tradition while remaining in communion with Rome.

The site has a long and layered history. In the 17th century, two small cave churches were carved into the cliff face here. As the settlement expanded and the terrain shifted, these early structures were lost. An infirmary was later built on the site and subsequently occupied by Jesuits, before the property was transferred to the Catholic authorities. The present-day church was constructed in 1757, forming the core of the structure seen today.

The church suffered serious damage during the 1956 Amorgos earthquake. Extensive restoration followed, giving the building its current appearance. Architecturally modest in scale, its visual impact comes from its setting and composition: whitewashed walls, a vivid blue dome, and a freestanding bell tower crowned with three bells. The bell tower, positioned slightly apart from the church itself, overlooks the caldera and the Nea Kameni volcanic islet.

The church is dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, celebrated on 15 August, which remains its principal feast day. On this occasion, religious services and observances are held in keeping with Byzantine Catholic tradition.

Today, the Three Bells of Fira functions both as an active place of worship and as one of the island’s most photographed viewpoints. Its best-known view is from the clifftop viewpoint and parking area above the church, from where the dome and bell tower are seen framed against the sea and sky.