Just a few steps from Kapari 1670 lies one of Fira’s most distinctive and lesser-known little churches, Saint John the Baptist, known locally as “Chostos.”

Its name is associated with its unusual architecture, as much of the church is built into the volcanic rock, a characteristic example of Santorini’s traditional cave style architecture. Small and simple, with its single nave vaulted interior, the church reveals a peaceful, intimate space, quite different from the island’s larger and better known places of worship.

Its discreet white Cycladic facade gives little away about what lies behind it, creating the feeling of discovering a hidden gem in the very heart of Fira.

Its close proximity to Kapari 1670 adds another fascinating layer to the historic character of the neighbourhood, a place where traces of old Santorini remain part of everyday life in the island’s modern day capital.