Back in the day, there was a Byzantine church in Koufonisia dedicated to Saint Nicholas. Now this church has been ruined. But fortunately, in its place there is the brand new Church of Agios Nikolaos. A chapel that you are going to love at first sight. Not just for its distinguished architecture, but also for the views and the exterior spaces as well. It is a chapel following the Cycladic architecture, with a blue dome and a bell tower on its side. All-white color resembles the clouds in the sky, while the blue details on the doors, shutters and columns is a direct reference to the sea.
The building of this church started in 1972. A local donated the land and the work began. However, due to financial inadequacies, the completion of the church suffered delays. And the whole church was ready in 1982, a whole decade after the conception of the work. It was all worth it, though! The details inside the temple are stunning. The entire atmosphere is filled with devoutness. And outdoors visitors are welcome to relax and take the time to inhale the island’s special identity. It is an experience not to be missed, when traveling to Koufonisia.
The Church of Agios Nikolaos in Koufonisia is a fine example of unpretentious Cycladic beauty. The pine trees all around, the ample yard where events take place and the cloudless skies make the perfect scenery. On December 6th each year, there is a huge celebration for the remembrance of Saint Nicholas. It is a Public Holiday and everyone gathers at the chapel to attend the Mass. After that, it is time to laugh over traditional treats and refreshments. Both locals and visitors of Koufonisia rejoice and enjoy the marvelous surroundings, in a religious ambiance that also highlights the island’s beauty and nature’s magnitude.