Taxiarchis Church

Perched above the seaside village of Kalathos, the 18th-century Taxiarchis Church offers lovely views, traditional Dodecanese architecture and a glimpse into Rhodes’ rich religious heritage.

Located on the eastern coast of Rhodes, about 42 km from Rhodes Town, the church dates back to 1720 and is dedicated to Archangels Michael and Gabriel. It serves as both the village’s main parish church and cemetery church, occupying a prominent position at the edge of the settlement.

Built in the traditional Dodecanese style, the church is a single-aisled, cross-vaulted basilica with a narthex. One of its most distinctive exterior features is the impressive four-storey stone bell tower, built after 1946 to replace the original, which was destroyed during the Second World War.

Two strikingly tall cypress trees rise from the well-kept courtyard, their bases adorned with traditional Rhodes pebble mosaics that add a characteristic local touch.

Inside, visitors can admire wall paintings depicting saints and scenes from the life of Christ, together with several beautifully carved wooden icon stands. The wooden iconostasis is particularly noteworthy. Crafted in 1869 by master craftsman Giakoumis Makras, it is gilded and partly painted, while its icons date from between 1893 and 1898, according to the church records.

To the left of the iconostasis, a large icon of Archangel Michael is displayed in a separate carved wooden shrine, decorated with flowers and religious offerings. Near the entrance, another wooden icon stand features an image of the Archangels, while a smaller shrine in front of the iconostasis houses a rare icon of Archangel Michael.

While you’re there, be sure to make your way to the back of the church, where you can pause and take in the stunning views stretching out toward the sea.

Taxiarchis Church in Kalathos village celebrates its feast day every year on 8 November, honouring Archangels Michael and Gabriel with a festive Divine Liturgy.