Church of Prophet Elijah Profitis Ilias - Gorny or "Moscobia" Convent
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Church of Prophet Elijah Profitis Ilias

4.7
·559 reviews·Thessaloniki, Greece

A historic Byzantine church in Thessaloniki with stunning frescoes, and Santorini's highest peak offering breathtaking island panoramas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Church of Prophet Elijah Profitis Ilias - Gorny or "Moscobia" Convent

Church of Prophet Elijah Profitis Ilias

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Byzantine church in Thessaloniki with stunning frescoes, and Santorini's highest peak offering breathtaking island panoramas.

4.7
(559 reviews)

"Admire beautiful Byzantine murals and enjoy panoramic views from the highest point."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Capture stunning shots of the church and panoramic views, especially during golden hour.

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Upper Town

Combine your visit with a walk through the historic upper town for a fuller experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Byzantine Murals & Frescoes

Byzantine Murals & Frescoes

Interior

Admire the stunning Byzantine art and frescoes that adorn the church's walls and ceiling, showcasing centuries of history.

Panoramic Island Views

Panoramic Island Views

Exterior / Summit

Experience breathtaking vistas from the highest point on the island, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape.

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Exterior

Appreciate the unique Byzantine architectural style of this 14th-century church, a testament to its rich past.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Views

While the Church of Prophet Elijah Profitis Ilias is beautiful, visiting during peak hours can mean crowds. Consider an early morning or late afternoon visit for a more serene experience and better photo opportunities. Check opening hours as they can vary, especially during weekdays.Reddit

Location & Accessibility

This historic church is often mentioned in the context of exploring higher elevations or specific neighborhoods. If you're visiting Thessaloniki, it's a great stop on a walking tour of the upper town. For Santorini, it's a notable landmark on the island's highest peak.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunday morning (if open)
Why
Potential for services, local feel
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @nonofomangoyi PART 2 Prophet Elijah 🔥 God gonna show up Everytime !! #bibletalk #fy #fyp #fypシ #fypage #viral #viralvideo #trending #trendingvideo #christiantiktok #christiangirl #christian #God #Love #soundviral
@bibletalkgirl
105K likes • 441.3K views

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Capture stunning shots of the church and panoramic views, especially during golden hour. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Upper Town

Combine your visit with a walk through the historic upper town for a fuller experience. Reddit

#apostlejoshuaselman #victorbaruch #CapCut
@victor_baruch
77.8K likes • 747.8K views
Нощна смяна III На “покрива” на Лефкада, на едно иначе доста тъмно място, лежи добре осветеният (за съжаление) храм “Пророк Илия”. Night's watch III On the top of Lefkas island, in an otherwise rather dark place, lies the well-lit (unfortunately) "Profitis Ilias" temple. . . . . . #profitisilias #topoftheisland #nightphotography #nightshooterz #milkyway_nightscapes #milkywayphotography #milkywa...
kat_momchilova
119 likes • 0 views

🤫 Respectful Visits

Remember it's a place of worship; dress modestly and be mindful of ongoing services. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially if visiting the Santorini location, the climb can be warm. Bring water! Reddit

The Man of the Moment Prophet Elijah #kenyantiktok🇰🇪 #nigeriatiktok🇳🇬🇳🇬🇳🇬 #adonai #elohim #viral #profetaelias
@livingwordnl
70.8K likes • 1.8M views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Capture stunning shots of the church and panoramic views, especially during golden hour. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Upper Town

Combine your visit with a walk through the historic upper town for a fuller experience. Reddit

🤫 Respectful Visits

Remember it's a place of worship; dress modestly and be mindful of ongoing services. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially if visiting the Santorini location, the climb can be warm. Bring water! Reddit

🕰️ Check Opening Hours

Hours can be limited, particularly on weekdays. Plan accordingly! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(559 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Church of Prophet Elijah for its beautiful Byzantine murals and frescoes, noting the free entry and welcoming atmosphere for photography. The historical significance and unique architecture are frequently highlighted. However, some find the opening hours inconsistent, and the church can be small, with the Santorini location requiring a significant climb for its renowned views.

"Beautiful church with wonderful Byzantine murals. Free to enter and no one stopped us from taking photos. First stop on a wonderful free walking tour of Thessaloniki."

Jennifer Smith

"The Church of Prophet Elijah is a small and historic church located in Thessaloniki, Greece. It is a beautiful example of Byzantine architecture, and it is worth visiting for its history and its atmosphere.

The church was built in the 14th century, and it was originally dedicated to Christ. It was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Thessaloniki in 1430, but it was restored to a church after the Greek War of Independence in 1821.

The interior of the church is small and simple, but it is beautifully decorated. The walls are covered with frescoes, and the ceiling is decorated with a mosaic.

The keeper of the church is very friendly and knowledgeable. He was happy to answer my questions about the church and its history, and he also recommended a walk through the old town that I really enjoyed.

I would definitely recommend visiting the Church of Prophet Elijah if you are in Thessaloniki. It is a great place to learn about the history of the city and to experience Byzantine architecture."

Sam Aberman

"I like the unique Byzantine architecture of the church. The interior has a nice blend of old and new murals."

Yuhng Yeap

What People Like

Beautiful Byzantine art
Free entry & photos
Historic architecture

What People Dislike

Inconsistent hours
Small interior
Steep climb (Santorini)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Church of Prophet Elijah is located in the upper town of Thessaloniki. It's often a stop on free walking tours and is best explored on foot as part of a broader exploration of the historic city center. Reddit

The church is situated on the highest peak in Santorini, requiring a drive or a hike. Many visitors opt to drive to the summit for the panoramic views. Reddit

Driving is the most common method to reach the summit where Profitis Ilias is located. The roads are winding but generally well-maintained. Reddit

Public transport options might be limited directly to the church, especially in Santorini. It's often part of a broader itinerary that might involve taxis or rental vehicles. Reddit

Parking can be challenging in the historic upper town of Thessaloniki. In Santorini, there is usually parking available at the summit area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Church of Prophet Elijah in Thessaloniki is generally free. No one typically stops visitors from taking photos inside. Reddit

Opening hours can be inconsistent, especially during the week. It's advisable to check locally or look for information specific to your visit date, as it might be closed on certain weekdays. Reddit

While the church itself is free to enter, the main draw in Santorini is the panoramic view from the summit, which is freely accessible. Reddit

Yes, visitors have reported being able to take photos inside the church without issue. Reddit

The church is a permanent structure, but its accessibility and opening hours can vary seasonally and daily. It's always best to confirm before your visit. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Built in the 14th century, it was originally dedicated to Christ, later converted to a mosque, and restored as a church. It's traditionally identified as the katholikon of the Nea Moni monastery. Reddit

The interior, though small, is beautifully decorated with frescoes and a mosaic ceiling, blending old and new artistic elements. Reddit

The views from the summit are spectacular, offering a sweeping panorama of the island, the Aegean Sea, and surrounding islands. InstagramReddit

In Thessaloniki, the church is in the upper town, offering opportunities to explore historic streets. In Santorini, the summit provides a serene spot to enjoy the scenery. Reddit

The church itself is small, but access might involve stairs or uneven terrain, especially in the upper town of Thessaloniki or the summit approach in Santorini. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Late afternoon during the golden hour offers beautiful lighting for both the church and the landscape. Night photography is also popular for capturing the Milky Way. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed inside the church, but it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful. Reddit

You can capture stunning panoramic shots of Santorini, the caldera, and the Aegean Sea, as well as the church itself. Instagram

Drone regulations vary by location and country. It's essential to check local laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone. Instagram

Experiment with different angles from the exterior to capture its architectural details and its setting. From the summit in Santorini, focus on the expansive landscape. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

For families, the Church of Prophet Elijah in Thessaloniki offers a brief but enriching stop. The free entry and allowance for photos make it accessible. The historical context can be simplified for children, focusing on stories of prophets and ancient buildings. In Santorini, the stunning views from Profitis Ilias can captivate older children, offering a sense of adventure and a chance to spot villages from afar. However, the climb and the nature of the site might be less engaging for very young children. Reddit

Practical Tip: Bring snacks and water, especially for the Santorini location, as amenities might be limited. Ensure children are supervised, particularly near any edges with steep drops in Santorini. The peaceful atmosphere in Thessaloniki can be a good break from more active sightseeing.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Both locations offer fantastic photographic opportunities. In Thessaloniki, the Byzantine architecture and interior frescoes provide rich subjects for architectural and detail shots. The upper town setting also offers charming street photography potential. InstagramReddit

In Santorini, Profitis Ilias is a prime location for landscape and panoramic photography. The golden hour and twilight offer magical lighting conditions. Night photographers will find the summit ideal for capturing the Milky Way due to its elevation and minimal light pollution. Remember to check local regulations regarding drone usage if you plan to incorporate aerial shots. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers

The Church of Prophet Elijah in Thessaloniki is a must-visit for its deep historical roots and Byzantine art. Delving into its past, from its original dedication to its Ottoman era as a mosque, provides a fascinating narrative of the city's cultural evolution. Reddit

For those interested in religious sites and historical landmarks, the Profitis Ilias monastery in Santorini offers a glimpse into monastic life and the island's spiritual heritage. The historical context of both sites enriches the travel experience, offering more than just a visual spectacle but a connection to the past. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Byzantine Legacy

The Church of Prophet Elijah in Thessaloniki is a significant example of Byzantine architecture, dating back to the 14th century. Originally dedicated to Christ, its history is intertwined with the city's complex past, including a period as a mosque during Ottoman rule. The interior is a treasure trove of Byzantine art, featuring frescoes and mosaics that have been carefully preserved and, in some cases, blended with newer artistic elements. This blend offers a unique glimpse into the evolving artistic and religious landscape of the region. Reddit

Its traditional identification as the katholikon of the Nea Moni monastery adds another layer to its historical importance. The church stands as a testament to the enduring cultural and religious heritage of Thessaloniki, offering visitors a chance to connect with centuries of history through its art and architecture. Reddit

Santorini's Highest Point

In Santorini, Profitis Ilias refers to the highest peak on the island, crowned by a monastery. This location offers unparalleled panoramic views that are a major draw for visitors. From this vantage point, you can gaze out over the entire island, the iconic caldera, and the vast expanse of the Aegean Sea. It's a popular spot for photographers and anyone seeking a moment of quiet contemplation amidst breathtaking scenery. InstagramReddit

The journey to the summit itself is part of the experience, often involving winding roads that reveal increasingly dramatic vistas. While the monastery is the focal point, the 360-degree views are the true highlight, providing a unique perspective of Santorini's volcanic landscape and its charming villages scattered below. It's a must-visit for understanding the island's geography and appreciating its natural beauty. Reddit

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