Church of St. John at Kaneo

Ohrid, North Macedonia

Saint John the Theologian is a Macedonian Orthodox church situated on the cliff over Kaneo Beach overlooking Lake Ohrid in the city of Ohrid. The church is dedicated to John of Patmos, the writer of Revelation, who has been by some considered to be the same person as John the Apostle. The construction date of the church remains unknown but documents detailing the church property suggest that it was built before the year 1447. Archaeologists believe that the church was constructed some time before the rise of the Ottoman Empire very likely in the 13th century. Restoration work in 1964 led to the discovery of frescoes in its dome.

The church has a cruciform architectural plan, with a rectangular base. The architect of the church is unknown. Reconstruction work was carried out on the church in the 14th century, shortly before the arrival of Ottoman Turks in Macedonia. A wooden iconostasis was constructed within the church and by the 20th century numerous saints along with the Virgin Mary have been portrayed on the apse. A fresco of Christ Pantocrator can be seen on the dome of the church. A fresco of Saint Clement of Ohrid (whose monastery, Saint Panteleimon, is located close to the church) accompanied by Saint Erasmus of Ohrid can also be seen on a wall of the church.

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Address

Ohrid, North Macedonia
See all sites in Ohrid

Details

Founded: 13th century
Category: Religious sites in North Macedonia

Rating

4.9/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Adrianna Tondi (19 months ago)
Beautiful church along the coast. Does not cost a thing to walk around and take pictures. If you hike the one trail you can also take in views of the coastline.
Georgios Stratigos (19 months ago)
Amazing Lakeview, chapel builted on the cliff within 13 century . There is an entrance fee: 2 euro
Daniel Senicar (2 years ago)
Very pretty view of the church and lake, most beautiful site in Ohrid. From church, take a boat trip on the lake and enjoy even more beautiful views of church and surrounding shores.
Steven Weber (2 years ago)
Quite possibly the most beautiful setting for any church in the World. There is a reason this church has been on the cover of National Geographic twice. It is also a great place for sunset when it really comes alive. I did not go inside but only peaked and am unsure if the 100 dinar entry is worthwhile. If you want to donate to the church, then definitely pay the entry fee. Highly recommended and an absolute must visit. A+
Yonathan Stein (2 years ago)
A lovely small ancient orthodox church from 1100. From outside is more interesting but the best part is the panoramic view and the sunset, definitely the best spot on Ohrid for sunset lovers.
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