Taxiarchis Michael

Set on a small hill in the traditional village of Lardos, Rhodes, the Church of Taxiarchis Michael is a historic landmark, known for its rare religious icons, beautiful frescoes and fascinating past.

Located about 52 km from Rhodes Town, on the eastern side of the island, the church is dedicated to Archangel Michael and serves as the main place of worship in Lardos village.

Built in 1838, the Taxiarchis Michael Church stands on the remains of an earlier Christian basilica dating back to the 11th century. The older structure was unexpectedly uncovered during restoration work in the courtyard, which was being reinforced to protect the church against earthquakes. As the work progressed, beautifully painted arches and other remains of the earlier building came to light, revealing an important part of Rhodes religious history.

The courtyard is a lovely introduction to the site, with two tall cypress trees, flowers and traditional stone benches. The bell tower, with its stone-built entrance and two balconies, is another distinctive feature. Traditional Rhodes pebble mosaic covers the ground, while an olive tree enclosed by a low stone wall adds to the setting. At the rear of the courtyard, a bust commemorates a former village priest and teacher who made an important contribution to the local community.

Inside, the church reveals an impressive collection of religious art. Its walls are decorated with later-period frescoes, while the finely carved wooden iconostasis, designed in the Ottoman Baroque style, stands out for its craftsmanship and rare icons.

Several portable wooden icons date back to around 1600. Some feature a second layer of painted decoration, suggesting that their original artwork may be even older. Look out for the small, rare fresco of Archangel Michael set into a recess on the left-hand wall. On the right, a separate carved wooden shrine houses another exceptional icon of the Archangel.

Further religious treasures, including icons dating from before 1600, are preserved in separate rooms beside the church.

Visiting the Church of Archangel Michael in Lardos

The church is reached on foot through the narrow streets of old Lardos. It is located on a small hill, just 70 metres from the central square, directly opposite the Italian Fountain, one of the village’s distinctive landmarks.

It is open to visitors on Sundays from 7:00 am to 10:00 am and usually on Saturday evenings during Vespers, from approximately 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. It also opens during Easter and Christmas.

Every year on 8 November, the church celebrates the Synaxis of the Archangels (Feast of Archangels Michael and Gabriel) with a festive Divine Liturgy. Afterwards, a traditional village festival takes place in the courtyard, with food and dancing bringing the local community together.