About
The Church of Panagia Episkopi stands on the Greek island of Sikinos, in the Cyclades, and is also known as the Virgin Mary the Bishop. It dates from the 12th century and is a Byzantine church, one of the older religious buildings to be seen on the island.
Visitors come for the building itself and for its frescoes, which are considered important. The church is often described as one of the finest examples of Byzantine architecture in the Cyclades, so it suits anyone interested in medieval religious art and in the way Byzantine churches were built in this part of the Aegean.
What to expect
- Architecture: a 12th-century Byzantine church, valued as a fine example of its style in the Cyclades.
- Frescoes: the interior paintings are the main reason to step inside, and are worth taking time over.
- Setting: the church is on Sikinos, a quieter island, so a visit fits well into a slower day of walking and looking around.
Getting there and planning
The church is at Sikinos 840 10, Greece. If you want to check details before you go, you can call +30 22860 51238. Because the facts available here do not list opening hours or entry arrangements, it is sensible to confirm these in advance, especially if you are travelling out of season.
Many visitors combine a stop here with the rest of what Sikinos offers, from its village streets to the coastline, so the church can be one part of a relaxed trip rather than a stop on its own.