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Agios Nikolaos (Chapel of St. Nicholas) - Kos island

Kastri Island

Agios Nikolaos (Chapel of St. Nicholas)

The Chapel of St. Nicholas (Agios Nikolaos) stands on the small island of Kastri, off the southwest coast of Kos. The chapel is dedicated to St. Nicholas, the patron saint of Greek sailors, and its uniqueness also lies in the fact that it is the only building on the island.

The Chapel of Agios Nikolaos is located on the eponymous islet of Agios Nikolaos, which is better known as the island of Kastri (translated as "little castle"). The island with the chapel lies in the Kefalos Bay, within sight of the resorts of Kefalos and Kampos, and is one of the most popular photographic spots. And although the size of the chapel is modest, its historical significance and picturesque location make it one of the island's most sought-after landmarks.

This small but distinctive white and blue church is dedicated to St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors, which is no coincidence as the site is surrounded by the beautiful Aegean Sea and has often served as a spiritual retreat for fishermen and sailors. Along with the chapel, the islet of Kastri also has its own legend - according to local lore, Saint Nicholas appeared here several times to protect local sailors from storms and misfortune at sea. Since then, the chapel has become a place where locals and visitors alike go to pray for the safety of their travels.

The chapel of St Nicholas, which probably dates back to the Byzantine period, is built on top of a rock and dominates the whole of the Kastri islet, attracting the attention of all those who walk along the surrounding beaches. The view of the island with the chapel is particularly beautiful from the beaches of Agios Stefanos, Kefalos and Kamari.

Thanks to the very gradual entrance to the sea and the fact that the island is only 70 m from the shore of Agios Stefanos beach, it is easy to swim and sometimes almost walk to the island. If you want to get to the island on dry feet, you can rent a boat, pedal boat or jet ski at the beach. The reefs around Kastri are also popular with divers and snorkelers, who discover the rich underwater life here.

More touristic destinations of Kos

Most favourite sights of Kos: Agora (archaeological site), Archaeological Museum (Kos Town), Asklepion (archaeological site), Neratzia Castle, Roman Odeon, Old town of Paleo Pili

Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Kos.

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