Mykonos is an island known for its breathtaking beauty, but there’s another layer of charm that many visitors quickly fall in love with—the abundance of chapels that dot its landscape. With nearly 800 chapels spread across the island, Mykonos offers a unique blend of spirituality, history, and picturesque settings perfect for you Mykonos destination weddings. Whether you’re looking for a traditional religious ceremony or a symbolic celebration with the chapel as a backdrop, these timeless structures offer endless possibilities.
Here's some info about Mykonos chapels and how you can use them to make a memorable wedding ceremony in Mykonos:
The History and Beauty of Mykonos Chapels 
One of the most remarkable aspects of Mykonos is its sheer number of chapels, many of which were built as acts of gratitude by sailors and local families. Rooted in the island's deep maritime history, these chapels often symbolize personal devotion and are a testament to Mykonos' rich religious and cultural heritage. Families would build private chapels on their land as a way of offering thanks for safe voyages or to honor deceased loved ones. Today, these chapels stand as living symbols of the island’s enduring connection to faith and tradition.
The chapels themselves vary in size and style but are typically modest, with
serene whitewashed exteriors, vibrant blue or red domes, and beautifully simple architectural features that are iconic of the Cycladic style. Scattered across both urban areas and remote corners of the island, they create a picturesque landscape that attracts visitors from all over the world. Whether perched on mountaintops, nestled in the countryside, or standing proudly in town squares, these chapels enhance Mykonos' undeniable charm and cultural significance.
Booking a Chapel for Your Wedding
While chapels on Mykonos are deeply tied to religious traditions, many couples seek them out for their symbolic meaning and scenic beauty, making them a popular choice for both religious and symbolic ceremonies.
Religious Ceremonies
If you’re dreaming of a Greek Orthodox wedding, you’ll find that chapels on Mykonos offer an unparalleled setting for an intimate, spiritual experience. Many of these chapels are still owned and maintained by families, monasteries, or communities, so availability will depend on getting the owner's or local church’s approval. Because these chapels are primarily used for religious purposes, they require formal permission and a proper connection to the Greek Orthodox faith for ceremonies to be conducted. Keep in mind that the cost of booking a chapel for a religious ceremony varies depending on location, size, and prestige, and can also be affected by the season and demand.
Symbolic Ceremonies
For those not tied to a particular religious faith but enchanted by the beauty of Mykonos chapels, there’s another option: using a chapel as a backdrop for a symbolic ceremony. While the ceremony can’t take place inside the chapel, many owners allow couples to use the courtyard or surrounding area for symbolic vows. This option provides the best of both worlds—the stunning aesthetics of a Mykonos chapel and the flexibility to personalize your wedding ceremony.
Understanding the Types of Chapels for Weddings
When considering chapels as part of your wedding, it's helpful to know that they generally fall into two categories:
A)Chapels in Remote Locations
These are the small, often secluded chapels found in rural areas or perched on hillsides, offering jaw-dropping views and a sense of tranquility. However, these chapels can be challenging to access due to rough terrain, overgrowth, or neglect. Although some may allow symbolic ceremonies with the owner’s consent, they may not be well-maintained and typically aren't authorized to host non-religious events. Be mindful of this when planning, as last-minute requests for religious ceremonies may override a symbolic booking.
B)Chapels within Private Residences, Villas, or Hotels
Many hotels & luxury villas in Mykonos come equipped with private chapels. These are ideal for symbolic wedding ceremonies, as they often come with rental agreements and can be combined with your accommodation package. These chapels are usually well-maintained and offer more flexibility, making them a popular choice for couples looking for an elegant yet personal setting.
Costs and Logistics
The cost of hiring a chapel for your ceremony on Mykonos varies widely depending on several factors. The location of the chapel, its size, and the time of year all play a role in determining the price. Prestigious chapels in popular areas may come with higher fees, while smaller chapels in more remote settings could be more budget-friendly. Additionally, if you're opting for a symbolic ceremony at a chapel that’s part of a private villa or hotel, you’ll likely need to rent the venue as part of a broader package. It’s important to start planning well in advance, especially during the high summer season, when demand for chapels peaks.
Making the Most of Your Chapel Wedding in Mykonos
Choosing a chapel for your wedding in Mykonos offers a beautiful fusion of tradition and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're planning a religious ceremony rooted in the Greek Orthodox faith or a symbolic celebration with a Mykonos chapel as your backdrop, the island’s countless chapels offer endless possibilities for creating a magical wedding day.
By understanding the history and significance of these sacred spaces, you can make an informed choice about the best chapel for your special day. And with the right preparation, your chapel wedding in Mykonos will not only honor the island’s heritage but also provide you and your guests with an unforgettable experience.
Authors: Margarita Samanoglou, Evelina Vakali
Dream Weddings Mykonos Team