Church of Prophet Elijah Profitis Ilias
A historic Byzantine church in Thessaloniki with stunning frescoes, and Santorini's highest peak offering breathtaking island panoramas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Church of Prophet Elijah Profitis Ilias
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Byzantine church in Thessaloniki with stunning frescoes, and Santorini's highest peak offering breathtaking island panoramas.
"Admire beautiful Byzantine murals and enjoy panoramic views from the highest point."
📸 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Historic Architecture
Exterior
Appreciate the unique Byzantine architectural style of this 14th-century church, a testament to its rich past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Views
Location & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 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.
🤫 Respectful Visits
Remember it's a place of worship; dress modestly and be mindful of ongoing services.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially if visiting the Santorini location, the climb can be warm. Bring water!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 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.
🤫 Respectful Visits
Remember it's a place of worship; dress modestly and be mindful of ongoing services.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially if visiting the Santorini location, the climb can be warm. Bring water!
🕰️ Check Opening Hours
Hours can be limited, particularly on weekdays. Plan accordingly!
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Driving is the most common method to reach the summit where Profitis Ilias is located. The roads are winding but generally well-maintained.
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.
Parking can be challenging in the historic upper town of Thessaloniki. In Santorini, there is usually parking available at the summit area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Church of Prophet Elijah in Thessaloniki is generally free. No one typically stops visitors from taking photos inside.
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.
While the church itself is free to enter, the main draw in Santorini is the panoramic view from the summit, which is freely accessible.
Yes, visitors have reported being able to take photos inside the church without issue.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
The interior, though small, is beautifully decorated with frescoes and a mosaic ceiling, blending old and new artistic elements.
The views from the summit are spectacular, offering a sweeping panorama of the island, the Aegean Sea, and surrounding islands.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Generally, photography is allowed inside the church, but it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful.
You can capture stunning panoramic shots of Santorini, the caldera, and the Aegean Sea, as well as the church itself.
Drone regulations vary by location and country. It's essential to check local laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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
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.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Byzantine Legacy
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.
Santorini's Highest Point
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit