Skala Patmos. Skala is the economic, tourist and cultural center of the Greek island of Patmos. Here, at the foot of the Kasteli hill, is where the only port of the island located. This town, with many shops, restaurants, cafes, bars and taverns, has about 1,500 inhabitants.
Skala attracts many tourists, many of which are island hoppers. Next to the large port is the marina where sailboats and luxury yachts moor.
The buildings in Skala are influenced by Italian architecture; a result of Italian occupation in the last century.
In the 17th century, there were many warehouses in Skala because it was an important center for transit trade. At that time, the inhabitants were forced to live on higher grounds, in fear of being attacked by pirates. It was not until the 19th century that the inhabitants of the island moved to the coast, enabling more effective use of the port, which led to economic prosperity.