The Remarkable Library of Saint John the Theologian in Patmos

Located on the island of Patmos, the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian houses one of the oldest and most significant libraries in Christendom. The fortress-like complex, perched at the island’s highest point, safeguards a remarkable collection of rare manuscripts and texts dating back to the 6th century.

Among the library’s most notable treasures are the Golden Bull of Alexios I Komnenos and the Purple Codex, distinguished by its silver and gold lettering on purple parchment.

Beyond the historical value of its documents, the library is equally renowned for its enduring, traditional approach to preservation. For nearly a thousand years, the monastery has relied on natural repellents rather than chemical agents to protect its collection. Bowls of fresh herbs—specifically lavender and bay leaves—are carefully placed on the shelves, a practice passed down through generations. Using the island’s native flora to repel insects and bookworms, this method has helped ensure the survival of these fragile historical artifacts for centuries.