The Dodecanese isle of Patmos , its St John Monastery and its Cave of Revelation have gained international recognition following their inclusion in Unesco 's World Heritage listing . As a result, all housing on the island is protected so any alterations or renovations must be first approved by the state archaeological service. The decision to add Patmos to the list was achieved through a successful cooperation between the municipality and the Byzantine antiquities department along with the support of the monastery's clergy. The listing has produced an increased sense of responsibility towards the difficult work involved in protecting and conserving the island's traditional housing while meeting the needs of residents. Icomos expert Herd Stove relayed to Unesco the hospitality to be found on the island along with the prospects for conservation and management of the settlement as expressed by the municipality.