Panagia Gremniotissa
Παναγία Γκρεμνιώτισσα
A white church on the hilltop of Chora, meaning “Our Lady of the Cliff”, with a lone palm tree beside it and sweeping bay views, a classic photo spot.
Panagia Gremniotissa dates from the 18th century and sits on the castle hill at the highest point of Chora's old town. Legend says its icon drifted in from the sea and revealed itself here. From the village lanes, climbing the white steps to the top takes about 10 minutes. The church's lone palm tree, together with the bay, the harbour and the sunset, makes up Ios's most iconic view. The church itself is small, and visitors should dress modestly if they go inside. The steps are steep and summer midday heat is intense, so it is best to go before evening.
Opening hours
Open all day (church hours vary)
Nearby sights
- Chora (Ios Town)
- Archaeological Museum of Ios
- Windmills of Chora
- Odysseas Elytis Theatre
- Skarkos
- Gialos Port & Beach
- Mylopotas Beach
- Koumbara Beach