Agios Prokopios

Agios Prokopios is a traditional Orthodox church on Naxos dedicated to Saint Prokopios, a 4th-century Christian martyr venerated throughout the Cyclades. The church stands near the coordinates 37.0584541, 25.4757581, in the area that shares the saint's name.

What to Expect

This is a working Greek Orthodox chapel, typically whitewashed with blue-painted details in the Cycladic style. Inside you'll find icons of Saint Prokopios—often depicted as a young soldier—along with candle stands, an iconostasis, and the scent of incense and beeswax. The interior is modest, designed for local worship rather than tourism, though visitors are welcome outside service times. The church celebrates its feast day on July 8th, when locals gather for liturgy and a small panigiri (festival).

How to Get There

The church is located in or near the Agios Prokopios area on the western coast of Naxos, roughly 5 km south of Naxos Town (Chora). From the port, follow the coastal road south toward Agios Prokopios Beach and the adjacent settlements. The chapel is within walking distance if you're staying in the area; otherwise, take a local bus toward Agios Prokopios or drive and park along the roadside.

Tips for Visiting

• Dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered. Bring a scarf or shawl if you're in beach attire.
• Quiet hours: avoid visiting during morning or evening liturgy unless attending the service.
• Photography: permitted outside and usually inside when empty, but no flash and no photos during worship.
• Candles: you can light a candle (small donation) at the stand inside.
• Feast day: if you're on Naxos in early July, the July 8th celebration includes evening vespers, morning liturgy, and sometimes music and food outdoors.

The Saint

Saint Prokopios of Caesarea was martyred under Diocletian around 303 AD. According to tradition, he was a Roman soldier who converted to Christianity and refused to renounce his faith. He's honored across Greece, and many Cycladic islands have chapels or beaches named for him. On Naxos, the saint's name also graces the popular beach nearby, though the church itself is the spiritual heart of the area.

What's Nearby

The church sits close to one of Naxos's most-visited stretches of coast. After your visit, you can walk to Agios Prokopios Beach (one of the island's best sandy shores), explore the neighboring beach of Agia Anna, or stop for lunch at one of the tavernas lining the coastal road. Naxos Town, with its Portara landmark and old-town lanes, is a short drive or bus ride north.