Saint Loukas, Soroni

The holy church of Saint Luke the Evangelist (after 1858) in the village of Soroni is located 25 kilometres from the city of Rhodes. It is the largest three-aisled cruciform basilica built between 1750 and 1924 on the island. The staircase and bell tower were added to the outside of the temple at a later date. The interior of the church is decorated with non-pictorial representations, an elaborate wood-carved iconostasis of 1881 as documented on an inscription, precious 18th and 19th century portable icons and a cobbled floor. The church also houses the holy relics of the Apostle and Evangelist Luke, who is also the patron saint of Soroni. The memory of the Saint is celebrated on October 18. On the eve, a great vespers is held, after which the icon of the Saint is paraded in a procession around the village. After the procession, a traditional feast with the participation of cultural associations follows. On the day of the celebration, a Divine Liturgy is celebrated with the participation of the Metropolitan, and the festivities continue in the afternoon. Very close to the church we also find the “folklore house” of Soroni. At a distance of 3 kilometres in the forest we find the church of Saint Silas, where one of the biggest religious celebrations of the island takes place.