Dormition of the Virgin, Afantou

The holy church of the Dormition of the Virgin or “Panagia Katholiki” in the wider area of Afantou village is dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin and celebrates on August 15th. It is located outside the residential zone of the area, on the ring road that leads from the center of the village to the beach and it is found about 22 kilometres from the city of Rhodes. It has been built on the ruins of an early Christian Basilica. Some of the architectural elements (columns, capitals) of that basilica were incorporated and are evident in the masonry of the contemporary church. It has been erected in the same position where in the 3rd century B.C. an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Demeter was located. It belongs to the architectural type of the free cross without a dome. Inside, layers of the church’s pictorial program (16th – 17th century) are preserved in very good condition. During the period of the church’s celebration, a great festival is held with the participation of a large number of local believers and visitors. A short distance from the church and to the west, the church of Prophet Elias is located on a hill which offers a unique view. Moreover, in the center of the village, the majestic church of Saint Loukas the Evangelist is found, which is also the parish church of the area.