Panagia, Pergialeni

The Byzantine dug-out church (12th-13th century) of Saint Nikitas in Damatria is located near the airport of the island, built on the northeast of the village, at an altitude of approximately 100m., on the southern slopes of Mount Paradisi. It is found about 15 kilometres from the city of Rhodes. It is a church dug-out in the boulder-type rock with a characteristic church-styled structure. Inside, fragments of frescoes (14th – 15th century) are preserved, as well as two tombs of monks with tombstones bearing a cross similar to that of the Order of the Knights of Saint John, who probably built the church. The entrance used to be through the roof of the church. Nowadays, a new entrance has been dug out so as to facilitate the access of the faithful believers during the day of the celebration of the Divine Liturgy on the Saint’s memory of September 15. The location of the church is characteristic for the wonderful, enchanting view it offers its visitors towards the village of Damatria with its rich and ancient history as well as the interior of the island. To the southeast, not far from here, we find the traditional village of Maritsa with the church of Saint Nikolaos (15th century). Towards the west we find the village of Theologos with the church of Saint John the Theologian.