One of the most famous temples of the island of Santorini (Thira) is regarded as the Monastery of the Prophet Elijah. It is located 4 km south of the village of Pyrgos, on the highest point of the island (Mount Prophet Elias), at an altitude of 586 meters above sea level.

The monastery of Prophet Elijah is one of the oldest on the island and was built back in 1712 by monks from Pyrgos style fortress. In the first two centuries after the construction of the monastery played an important role in the economic, political and cultural life of the island. During the period of Ottoman rule in the monastery there was a clandestine school, which taught prohibited while Greek language and literature. Since 1860 the monastery slowly began to lose its former importance, and in 1956, after a strong earthquake rocked the island of Santorini, was very badly damaged.

Today the monastery is a museum of religious art, which houses an excellent collection of unique icons and various church relics. The monastery library also has a fine collection of rare manuscripts and ancient documents. In the museum you can see a model of the reconstructed premises of the underground school, blacksmith shop and a traditional carpenter's workshop.

From the top of the mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of the picturesque scenery of Santorini and the nearby islands, and on a clear sunny day you can even see the tops of Crete. Unfortunately, the top of a hill and is now used as a military base. Special equipment and barracks a few spoil the overall impression of the beautiful temple.