Monday Ground Up: The Cave of the Apocalypse

The Cave of the Apocalypse can be found on the rocky island of Patmos, deep within the monastery that surrounds it. Patmos is located north of the Greek Islands, off the southwest coast of Turkey. Many believe that St. John or John the Apostle as most people know him, lived here between Chora and Skala.

John the Apostle was exiled to Patmos in 95 CE and was there until 97 CE. It was said that he inhabited this cave where he dictated his Gospel and Apocalypse to Prochorus, his disciple. Prochorus later became Bishop of Nicomedia. The Apocalypse, along with its peculiar revelations, was the last book of the Bible to be written.

During the 10th century, the cave became enclosed by a Greek Orthodox monastery to guard its spiritual importance, and of course, to ensure its overall condition and protection. The Cave of the Apocalypse is now a center for Christian pilgrimages.

From an archaeological standpoint, there are indentations in the rock where John may have laid his head. These indentations are now the home of seven silver lights, one which hangs over where he slept. The entrance to the cave boasts an extraordinary mosaic depicting the visions John had seen while in the cave.

Evidence about the history of the Cave of Apocalypse is not, however, conclusive. It is a place that amasses a strong sense of spiritual worship and a feeling that some say is unshakable.

The Cave of the Apocalypse was recognized in 1999 as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it remains one of the most historically important sites of the Christian world.

Photography and Video of the Cave of the Apocalypse

Picture Sources

Wikipedia

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