Kyklades Eng Visit

GREECE
Cyclades
www.visitgreece.gr
GREEK NATIONAL TOURISM ORGANISATION

CONTENTS CENTRAL
& EASTERN
CYCLADES
92 Paros
WEST
CYCLADES 104 Antiparos SOUTHERN
CYCLADES
04 Kea (Tzia)
NORTH
CYCLADES
108 Naxos
144Ios
10 Kythnos
46 Andros
120 Donousa
150Sikinos
18 Serifos
58 Tinos
124 Irakleia
154Folegandros
26 Sifnos
68 Syros
128 Schoinousa
158Santorini
(Thira)
34 Milos
78 Mykonos
132 Koufonisia
170Thirasia
42 Kimolos
86 Delos
136 Amorgos
172Anafi
Cover: Sculpted geometrical white-coloured surfaces reflecting

the Aegean’s bright light are characteristic of the traditional cycladic architecture.
This is Agios Nikolaos’ church in Anafi’s Chora.
1. “The cup-bearer”, statuette of a seated figure dating to the Early Cycladic II Period
(2,800-2,300 BC, Museum of Cycladic Art – Athens).
1.
Cyclades
Cyclades is the most famous group of islands in the Aegean and includes some of the
most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean! The charming white and blue coloured
Cycladic architecture, the traditional lifestyle, island songs, warm hospitality, the land
with no vegetation dotted by deserted country chapels, an amazing coastline and
excellent sandy beaches all form a harmonious blend, making a trip to Cyclades truly
unique.
The islands have a total land area of 2,528 sq km. Out of the 2,200 islands, islets and
smaller rocks, only 25 are populated today. The capital, Ermoupoli, is located on Syros
island. The name “Cyclades” means “the islands that form a circle” around the sacred
island of Delos. Greek mythology refers to Cyclades as a creation of Poseidon (or
Neptune), who turned Cyclades nymphs into islands, when they incurred his wrath.
Cyclades have been inhabited since the prehistoric times; however Cycladic culture
flourished between 3200 B.C. and 1100 B.C. (Early Cycladic, Middle Cycladic and Late
Cycladic Period) when the islands, due to their geographic position, became a trade and
cultural centre. In the 16th century B.C, the eruption of the volcano of Thira (Santorini)
brought the region’s development to a halt. A few centuries later Dorians settled in the
Cyclades. During the Byzantine period, the Cyclades islands belonged to the Aegean
Theme (Administrative Division) and later passed to Venetian and Frankish rulers. For
many centuries these islands suffered pirate raids, which was why they were granted
permission to build ships and fight back the pirates during the Turkish occupation.
With the Treaty of London in 1830, the islands were freed and became part of the
Greek state.
Today, millions of Greek and foreign travellers visit the Cyclades islands, looking for
bright sunlight and clear blue waters to create their own version of a “magic holiday”.
The website for all the islands is: www.cyclades-tour.gr

2. The Cyclades islands boast some amazing sandy beaches washed by crystal-clear waters.
This is Agios Georgios beach on Kimolos Island.
Kea (Tzia)
3. Panoramic view of Ioulida.
K
ea or Tzia is a beautiful Cyclades island and one of the most popular destinations because
of its proximity to the eastern coast of Attica. It has an area of 130.5 sq. km., a coastline of
81.5 km and a population of 2,420. The island is endowed with ever-changing scenery: steep
mountains, small fields, olive groves, vineyards, ravines, picturesque coves and secluded beaches. It
was inhabited for the first time in the Late Neolithic era (3300 - 3200 BC) and experienced a period of
cultural development during the Bronze Age. During the Archaic period (7th-6th c. B.C.) four city-states
were founded (Ioulida, Karthaia, Korissia, Poiiessa) which communicated via an intricate network of
pathways. During the byzantine period, the largest residential growth took place in the area around
Ioulida. Kea was occupied by the Ottoman Turks from 1566 until 1821. It experienced great prosperity
in the following period as a result of the opening of mines and factories and the creation of a busy
trading port on the island. Nowadays, there are growing residential neighbourhoods and rising numbers
of tourists on the island.
4. Copper coin (3rd c. BC) from ancient Karthaia (Numismatic Museum, Athens).
KEA (TZIA)
Chora Keas (Ioulida) 1 (Annunciation), Agios (Saint) Spyridonas,
Panagia Revmatiani, Agios Dimitrios and
The capital of Kea, Ioulida, is located in the cen- Panagia Gamila.
tre of the island, built on the site of the ancient • To the Lion of Ioulida, a colossal plastic art
town by the same name. It is a picturesque town
of traditional houses with ceramic tile roofs, al-
monument, carved in bedrock (7th-6th c. BC).
• To Episkopi’s Monastery, southeast of
5
leys paved with cobblestones, small squares, Ioulida, featuring a particular architectural style.
WEST CYCLADES
stegadia (arcaded alleys) and lots of steps along • To Agia (Saint) Anna’s Monastery, east of
the narrow streets. Ioulida with its main church dating back to the
Promenade in Chora 13th century.

• To Dafni’s Monastery, west of Ioulida. It
• To Ancient Ioulida, the capital of Kea was founded by Agia [Saint] Filothei the
from the Late Roman to the early Athenian (1522-1589).
Byzantine times. • To the Tower of Agia Marina,
• To the Archaeological next to the church by the same
Museum with interesting name (4th c. BC).
collections dating from
prehistoric as well as his- Trips around
torical times.
• To the 13th c. mediaeval the island
castle - displaying ancient wall
built-in material. Korissia 2
• To the neoclassical buildings of Korissia, also called Livadi, is the
the elementary school (19th c.) and the port of Kea, located on the west side
town hall (1902), designed by architect Ernst Ziller. of the island. It is particularly picturesque and
• To the centuries-old plane tree and the cosmopolitan, with many shops, bars, cafés,
marble fountain at the entrance of Ioulida. restaurants and wonderful sandy beaches.
• To see the paintings of the famous Greek Distance from Ioulida: 5.5 km NW.
painter Alekos Fassianos, in one of the arcaded
alleys (stegadia) in the capital’s central square.
Must see:
• To the churches of Panagia (Virgin Mary)
• The old “Emaye” (meaning Enamel) plant,
Chrysospiliotissa, Evangelismos
5. The “lion of Kea” located northeast of Ioulida.
150a_new-ENG_NOV14.indd 1 06/11/2014 3:22 μ.μ.
and its characteristic chimney, where old

factory machinery is displayed.
• Agia Triada’s (Holy Trinity) church.
• Ancient Korissia, built on two hills,
with significant finds in the lower and upper
acropolis. The famous Kouros of Kea
(530 BC), discovered in the burial ground,
is one of the most important sculptures
of archaic times.
• The Fleha Spring, at Mylopotamos village.
Vourkari 3
Vourkari is a seaside village, built in an amphi-
theatrical formation, offering a lovely sea view. It is
located near Korissia and it is a cosmopolitan town
KEA (TZIA)
7
WEST CYCLADES
7. Otzias beach and village.
with its pier full of yachts in the summer. There are • Lamprou Katsoni Strait.
famous galleries and fish restaurants in the area. • Faros (Lighthouse), on cape Agios Nikolaos.
Vourkari is the centre of Kea’s nightlife. Distance
from Ioulida: 7.5 km NW.
Otzias 4
Must see: Otzias is a coastal village in the northern part of
• The particularly significant prehistoric the island, stretching along the sandy beachfront
settlement of Agia Eirini and its with tamarisks. In the area of Cape Kefalas there
promontory on the northern side of Agios is a settlement and cemetery identified to be
Nikolaos bay, where a great number of statues dating back to the Late Neolithic period (3300-
were found dating back to the 15th c. BC. 3200 BC). Distance from Ioulida: 10 km N.
6. General view from Vourkari. 8. Interior of Vourkariani gallery (in Vourkari).
Must see:
• The Neolithic settlement of Kefalas.
• The monastery of Panagia Kastriani,
7 km E., built on a steep rock, offering
a magnificent view of the surrounding area.
Pisses 5
Pisses is a picturesque seaside village built in a
cove with its lovely sandy beach facing a plain
with vegetable gardens. This is the location of
Poiiessa, an ancient town dating back to the
6th c. BC, the ruins of which can be seen in the
area. Distance from Ioulida: 11.5 km SW.
Koundouros 6
Koundouros is located on the west side of the
island, with beautiful bays and small sandy
beaches. Many old windmills have been
renovated and turned into residences.
Distance from Ioulida: 15 km. SW.
Must see:
• The ruins of ancient Karthea, on Poles
[pronounced Póless] bay to the southeast.
• The 13th c. church of Agioi Apostoloi,
in Kato Meria.
9. Panagia Kastriani’s Monastery is the island’s most important place of worship.

KEA (TZIA)
• Agia Marina’s Feast on July 17th.
• Panagia Kastriani’s Feast on August 15th.
Activities on the island 9

• Water sports.
• Fishing.
WEST CYCLADES
• Diving.
• Hiking (there are hiking trails on the island with
a total length of 36 km 65% of which are paved).
• Dirt bike riding.
• Swimming in Koundouros, Pisses, Gialiskari
and Otzias. Sykamia, Spathi, Xyla, Kefala, Treis
Ammoudies, Melissaki, Mavrabeli, Kalogiros and
Vroskopos are fairly secluded beaches.
• Camping in Pisses.
Useful phone numbers (+30)

• Kea Municipal office: 22883-60.000
• Police station: 22880-21.100
• Rural Medical Clinic: 22880-22.200
• Port Authority: 22880-21.344
• Archaeological Museum: 22880-22.079
Website: www.kea.gr
11. Kea boasts a rich cultural tradition.

10. Ancient Karthaia: notice the temple
of Pythius Apollo (530 BC) to the south
and the Doric temple of Athena (end of 6th –
beginning of 5th c. BC) to the north.
Events
• Simonideia - cultural events including theatrical
plays, concerts and sporting events taking place
in Ioulida on August 1st -19th.
• Traditional Carols, on New Year’s Eve.
• Agios Charalampos’ feast (the patron saint of
Kea), on February 10th.
• A large carnival parade and a meal offered in
Ioulida, as the last Carnival event.
• Metamorfosis tou Sotiros’ Feast (Transfiguration
of Christ) in Pisses on August 6th.
• Agios Sozon’s Feast in Otzias on September 7th.
• Agios Aimilianos’ Feast at Koundouros bay on
August 8th.
Kythnos
12. General view of the village and the harbour of Merichas.
Α
lthough Kythnos (also named Thermia - due to its hot springs) is one of those Cyclades islands
closest to Attica, it remains one of the less known areas of the Aegean. Merichas - the port
of the island, Chora - the capital, Loutra and Dryopida are all located in the northern part.
The southern part of Kythnos is almost uninhabited, the only exception being the area of Panagia
Kanala and the small bay of Agios Dimitrios. The island has 65 lovely beaches (dirt roads leading
to most of them) and typical Cyclades landscapes with bare and dry hills, surrounded by dry stone
walls stretching for many kilometres. The island is dotted with 350 picturesque snow-white country
chapels and in the villages there are narrow streets paved with cobblestones, snow-white houses,
squares, churches and windmills. Dryopes or Dryopians, came from Evvoia (or Euboea) island and
settled on Kythnos during the 10th c. BC. The island flourished in classical times and contributed a
trireme (ancient greek galley) in the naval battle of Salamina. The island shared the historical fate
of the rest of the Cyclades islands: in 1204 it came under Venetian rule, to be occupied later by the
Turks. In 1830 it joined the newly formed Greek state. The island’s area is 99 sq. km, its coastline is
111 km, and there are 1,600 inhabitants.
KYTHNOS
Chora (Mesaria) 1 Trips around the island
Chora, also known as Mesaria, is the capital
town of Kythnos island, its houses arranged on Loutra (meaning Baths) 2
a hillside as if in an amphitheatre. It was built
in the 17th century and has been populated
Loutra is the island’s most popular and
modern resort. The area is famous for its hot
11
ever since. This is one of the most beautiful springs that are unique in all Cyclades islands
WEST CYCLADES
villages in the Cyclades islands, an enchanting and their therapeutic properties have been
aggregate of snow-white houses, narrow stone- known since ancient times. There are two hot
springs: Agioi Anargyroi spring, located in a
laid streets, whitewashed terraces and several
spa, and the Spring of Caucasus, situated 50
small churches and windmills.
m. away from the first one, its temperature
reaching 52° C. Loutra is the location of the
Promenade in Chora mediaeval capital town of Kythnos, destroyed
by the Turks around 1570. In the greater
• To the Memorial at the entrance of the town. Kefalokastro area you can see the ruins of
• To the 17th c. Agios Savvas’ Church with its Oria Castle, in a spectacular natural setting.
remarkable wood carved iconostasis. Distance from Chora: 5.5 km N.
• To the church of Metamorfosis tou Sotira
(Transfiguration of Christ), with its 17th Must see:
century iconostasis and Agia Triada (Holy Trinity)
• Kythnos’ hot springs (Spa).
church, the oldest one on the island, with ancient
• Oria Castle, near Cape Kefalos, at the
pieces of sculpture bearing inscriptions.
northern part of the island.
• To the Byzantine Museum, at the post-
Byzantine church of Agios Georgios. • Agioi Anargyroi church and the mineral
• To the Monastery of Panagia tou Nikous. spring waters gushing in front of it.
The basement of the monastery had housed a • Kakavos, the mineral water spring.
secret school (during the Turkish occupation). • Skala metalleiou, once a bridge for
• To the wind farm, NE of Chora. It has been the loading iron ore in the port.
first wind plant in Greece. • The tower of Mazarakis.
13. Loutra extends around a picturesque cove, a mooring place for fishing boats and yachts.
14. Present-day Vryokastro is the location of the ancient town of Kythnos.
KYTHNOS
13
WEST CYCLADES
15. Dryopida is widely considered to be the most beautiful village on Kythnos.
• Agrokipio, a wooded area with eucalyptus Merichas 3

and cypress trees.
Merichas is a picturesque village and the island’s
• Potamia, an area with picturesque beaches.
port. It is built in a protected cove next to a beautiful
• Agios Georgios’ church and the small
sandy beach. Distance from Chora: 7 km SW.
church of Stavros (Cross).
• The sea caves Kavospilia (north) and Must see:
Legamena (east).
• The small church of Agioi Akindynoi, offering
• Vryokastro, the ancient capital of Kythnos,
a beautiful view of the harbour.
in the Apokrisi area, 7.5 km W.
• Faros (lighthouse), at the harbour’s entrance.
Towards the coastal side, traces can be seen
of the ancient town’s agora (market place).
It was inhabited until the Roman times.
Dryopida 4
There are also ruins of walls, foundations of Dryopida is located on the southern side
temples, altars and three caves that were of Kythnos island. The area has been inhabited
used as cisterns for collecting water. since the ancient times by the Dryopians, the
• Kolona, (3 km W. of Chora), a lovely island’s first settlers, and has kept its old name.
location with extensive sandy beaches. It is a traditional and particularly picturesque
It was named after the characteristic strip village, with two-storeyed houses, and ceramic
of sand (Kolona meaning column / strip)
tile roofs. Distance from Chora: 12 km S.
connecting the small island of Agios Loukas
with Kythnos. On the small island you can see Must see:
the ruins of an ancient settlement. • Agios Minas’ church, with its elaborate wood
16. Agios Eleimonas’ church on a rocky islet in Naousa-Kouri-Zogkaki area.
carved iconostasis and the hierarchical

(bishop’s) throne.
• The churches of Agia Anna, Agioi Apostoloi,
Agios Panteleimonas and Agia Triada
with their beautiful iconostases and icons.
• Mnimeio Pesonton (Fighters’
Memorial).
• Katafyki Cave, one of the largest in
Greece, featuring an abundance of stalactite
and stalagmite formations.
• The Folk Art Museum.
• The small Byzantine Museum housed
in Agios Georgios’ church.
• The outdoor theatre, a venue for various
cultural events.
Panagia Kanala 5
A coastal village, built around the island’s only pine
forest. The area was named after the church of
Panagia Kanala, the island’s patron saint. It is built 17. Taxiarchis’ church, north of Dryopida.
in a magnificent location and its architectural style
is exceptional. According to tradition, the icon of
Panagia was found in a canal and is said to have been
painted by Luke the Apostle. The most likely version,
however, is that it was painted by the Cretan artist
Antonis Skordilis. Distance from Chora: 17.5 km S.
Agios Dimitrios 6
Agios Dimitrios is a small village by the sea,
located near Panagia Kanala, built in a beautiful
location with lovely beaches. Distance from
Chora: 24 km S.
KYTHNOS
Must see:
• Panagia Stratolatissa’s monastery.
• Agia Eirini’s country chapel, overlooking
the village. 15
Εvents
WEST CYCLADES
• Feasts taking place at the Monastery of Panagia
tou Nikous on August 15th, and at the church of
Profitis Ilias on July 20th.
• Carnival celebration.
• “Kythneia”; Cultural events taking place in the
island’s villages during the summer months.
19. Thyme honey is one of the island’s top quality products.
• Mountain bike.
• Wind surfing.
• Water sports.
• Swimming at Kolona, Agios Dimitrios, the
beaches of Merichas and Martinakia. Try also
Kalo Livadi, Antonides, Gaidouromantra, Si
Mou Si, Skylou, Flampouria, Alyki, Styfos,
Petousa, Divlaka and Trivlaka. From Dryopida
you can reach the nearby sandy beaches of
Lefkes, Kalo Limani and Agios Stefanos. In
the greater Loutra area you can swim at the
beaches of Schoinari, Maroula, Kavourocheri,
Potamia, Mikra Potamia, Sarantou and Agios
Sostis.
• Visiting the hot springs.

18. Kythnos numbers many beautiful beaches
set in a pristine natural environment. • Kythnos Municipal office:
• Agios Charalampos’ Feast on February 10th, Agia 22813-61.100
Triada Feast, and Profitis Ilias’ Feast on July 20th • Dryopida Community office:
in Chora. 22810-32.230
• Agia Eirini’s Feast taking place on the village’s • Municipal Tourist Office:
beach on May 5th. 22810-32.250
Activities on the island • Rural Medical Clinic: 22810-31202

• Hot springs (Baths):
• Diving.
22810-31.217, 22810-31.460
• Hiking.
• Spear Fishing. Website: www.kythnos.gr
• Dirt bike riding.
20. Kolona is one of the most charming beaches in Cyclades.
Agios Loukas’ church is to the right.
WEST CYCLADES KYTHNOS
17
Serifos
21. Serifos’ Chora is made up of two quarters: Epano Chora and Kato Chora.
S
erifos is a typical Cyclades island, ideal for relaxed vacations, featuring tranquil little
harbours, snow-white villages and golden sandy beaches, as well as steep masses of
rock, hills with no vegetation and extraordinary scenery. It is situated between Kythnos
and Sifnos, and its traditional island features have remained unaltered thanks to a moderate
tourism growth. According to mythology, Perseus arrived on the coast of Serifos with his
mother, Danae, locked up in a chest. To punish Polydefkis, king of Serifos, he killed Medusa the
Gorgon and showed him the severed head; that resulted in Polydefkis turning into stone.
In the land of Serifos there are valuable mineral resources which brought great prosperity to the island
especially after the 6th c. BC. During the Medic Wars the islanders battled against the Persians and
joined the Delian League. Later, the island was conquered by the Macedonians, then by the Ptolemies
and finally by the Romans. After the conquest of Constantinople by the Crusaders in 1204, Serifos
was ceded to Venetian nobles. In 1537, it was captured by the Turkish admiral Barbarossa, and from
1770 until 1774 it was occupied by the Russians. After 1821 it was liberated along with the rest of the
Cyclades. Island area: 75 sq. km, coastline: 82 km, population: 1,420 people.
22. Piatsa square: the 19th c. Agios Athanasios’ church is to the left
and the Town Hall (also housing the Archeological Collection) is in the centre.
chapel of Agia Sofia, at the Castle.
SERIFOS
• To the remarkable post-Byzantine churches
of Agios [Saint] Athanasios (Metropolitan
church), Evangelismos (Annunciation), Agios
Eleftherios and Agios Konstantinos.
• To the renovated windmills.
19
• In Paspari - a fountain decorated with arches.
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• To Vrysses
• To Agios [Saint] Sostis coastal village and the
small church of said saint, and to Lias Bay, 6.5
km E.
• To Agios Ioannis coastal village and the small
church dedicated to said saint, situated 8 km NE.
Trips around the island

Livadi 2
The port of Serifos is an important commercial
and financial centre. The town extends by
23. Local silver Stater [coin] (530 BC) the beach, next to small cultivated fields. The
depicting a frog (Numismatic Museum, Athens). snow-white houses and the green of the fields
surrounding them create a unique
Chora landscape. It is the island’s most
Serifou 1 popular resort area with a
great variety of night clubs.
The capital town of Serifos re-
Panagia church and Spathi
sembles a fortress and has been
lighthouse are located at
built in an amphitheatrical for-
Livadakia, 500 m. away
mation on a hillside overlooking
from Livadi. Distance from
the bay and Livadi, in order to
Chora: 4.5 km SE.
be able to repel the pirates who
raided the area up to the 17th cen-
tury. It is the most beautiful and pic- 24. Yard of a traditional house in Chora.
turesque village of the island. Little white
houses, with very small rooms, dotting the top
of the hill, create a very charming picture.
Promenade in Chora
• In Piatsa, a picturesque marble-laid square
in the heart of the town, where the Town Hall
(1907) is also located.
• To the Archaeological Collection, where
antiquities of the Late Hellenistic and Roman
periods are exhibited.
• To the Folk Art Museum, in Kato Chora.
• To the Venetian castle’s ruins on the hilltop.
• To the church of Christos (Christ) and the
25. Livadi is the island’1s sheltered harbour, a spot preferred for mooring yachts and fishing boats
3Serifos150a_new-ENG_NOV14.indd in the summer.
06/11/2014 3:24 μ.μ.
SERIFOS
21
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26. Spathi lighthouse (1901), at the island’s southern tip.
Panagia 3 in it that date back to 1300. It is worth visiting the

nearby church of Agios Stefanos where traces of
Its white houses have been built on mountainous
Byzantine murals can be seen. Distance from
terrain affording a spectacular view of the inland.
The village covers the area around the historic Chora: 6 km NW.
Byzantine church of Panagia dating to 950-
1000. There are excellent murals and sculptures
Moni Taxiarchon 4
Moni Taxiarchon is considered to be Serifos’ most
important monument. The monastery was built in a
fortress style in 1449. It suffered many pirate raids in
the past because of its accumulated wealth. Notice
the iconostasis, the wood-carved bishop’s throne as
well as the Alexandrian Epitaphios (an embroidered
cloth icon of Christ prepared for burial). A visit to
the Monastery is possible upon consultation with the
Abbot. Distance from Chora: 9.5 km N.
Megalo Livadi 5
Megalo Livadi is a picturesque harbour with
a beautiful beach. Although today there are
few residents, it was once the island’s major
port for mineral exports (19th century). There
is a mining tradition having its roots in the
antiquity, as there are references of the island’s
rich deposits of gold and iron. Distance from
Chora: 10.5 km SW.
Must see:
• The remarkable post-Byzantine churches
of the area, such as Agios Nikolaos and Agios
Ioannis Prodromos, with notable 17th c. murals.
• The memorial to the four miners
who were executed during the 1916 strike
claiming an 8-hour workday and better
conditions at work.
• The abandoned mines of gold, iron
and copper, next to deserted mansions and
workers housing units. Remains of rusty rails,
transport wagons and storage silos can be
seen in the old mine.
• The neighbouring Megalo Chorio,
the island’s major centre during the period
1880-1912.
Koutalas 6
The coastal village of Koutalas is built in an
area with a wonderful natural environment and
beaches. Distance from Chora: 11.5 km SW.
27. Panagia Skopiani’s church located

in the picturesque Kentarchos village area. Must see:
• Kastro tis Grias (Castle of the Old Lady),
on a small hill, looking down over Koutalas.
• Spilaio tou Koutala (Koutalas Cave), with
stalagmites and stalactites in strange shapes.
• Aspros Pyrgos (White Tower), a circular
marble building of the Late Classical period.
Εvents
• Feast of Xylopanagia on August 15th.
• Feasts of Agios Athanasios on January 18th,
and of Evangelistria on March 25th, in Chora.
• Feast of Panagia tou Vounou on September
8th, in Avessalos.
• Feast of Panagia Liomantra.
• Feast of Agios Ioannis Prodromos on August
29th and of Agia Thekla on September 23rd, in
Liomantra.
Activities on the island

• Pedalo riding.
• Wind surfing.
• Swimming at Lia, Kalo Ampeli, Agios Sostis,
Agios Ioannis and at Psili Ammos. One can also
swim at Karavi, Malliadiko, Koutalas, at the long
28. Psili Ammos beach.
walk), and also from Koutalas to Aspros Pyrgos
SERIFOS
(White Tower) (55 min. walk).
• Mountain biking.
• Camping at Livadakia.
23
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• Serifos Municipal office: 22810-51.210
• Moni Taxiarchon: 22810-51.027
• Archaeological Collection: 22810-52.611
• Folk Art Museum: 22810- 51.138
website: www.serifos.gr
29. The old bridge for loading iron ore in Megalo Livadi.
sandy beach of Livadi, at the beaches of Megalo

Livadi and Livadakia, in the area of Ladi, at
Avlomonas, Platys Gialos and Sykamia.
• Diving.
• Spear Fishing.
• 4x4 vehicle off road rides.
• Hiking from Chora to Elikodromio (Helipad)
(30 min. walk) and towards Livadi (50 min.
30. The White Tower, northwest of Koutalas.

SERIFOS
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31. Serifos’ Chora at sun-setting.

Perched on a crag, it offers a clear view of the surrounding land and the Aegean Sea.
Sifnos
32. Chrysopigi’s monastery is one of Sifnos’ most famous sights.

The area’s turquoise waters are particularly popular with tourists.
Τ
raditional whitewashed village houses, countless churches, picturesque dovecotes, windmills
and beaches with crystalline seawaters make up the image of Sifnos. The island flourished
in ancient times, thanks to the gold and silver mines and quarries of «Sifnios lithos” (a local
stone). From 1687 until 1854 it was an important cultural centre and provided the location for the
renowned School of Agios Tafos (Holy Sepulchre), known as Paideftirion tou Archipelagous
(The Archipelago Educational Establishment). The island has a long tradition in pottery and there
are many ceramics and pottery workshops open today. Sifnos is located between Serifos and Milos.
The island’s area is 74 sq. km, its coastline is 71 km long and there are 2,450 residents.
33. Local silver drachma coin (5th c. BC) depicting Apollo (Numismatic Museum, Athens).
Apollonia 1 (1894). The historic monastery of Agios Ioannis
SIFNOS
Chrysostomos (1550) lies to the east.
Apollonia has been the island’s capital town
since 1936. The name Apollonia denotes a
27
town dedicated to the worship of Apollo. This is
the geographical centre of the island and the
houses are arranged on three low hills - as if in an Katavati 2
amphitheatre - following the charming Cyclades
WEST CYCLADES
In Katavati, visit the three-aisled conical domed
architectural style. church of Panagia Angelochtisti, built –
Promenade in Apollonia according to tradition – by angels who celebrate

mass there. Fyrogeion monastery (16th c.) is
• To the Folk Art Museum, located in Iroou situated south of the village. Distance from
Square, and exhibiting objects relating Apollonia: about 1 km SW.
of the island’s traditional life.
• To the old schools of Agios Exampela 3
Artemios. Exampela is a village in central
• To the monastery of Agios Sifnos. Rows of about ten wind-
Artemios (1629), a dependency mills called «Arades» are situ-
of Simonopetra Monastery of ated at its entrance. This is the
Mount Athos (Agion Oros). native village of the poet and
• To Panagia Ouranofora’s academic Aristomenis Provelen-
church where you will view gios (1850-1936) and Nikolaos
impressive old icons and a gilded Tselementes (1878-1958), the
iconostasis. great Greek teacher of culinary and
• To Profitis Ilias’ monastery (1145-1890), confectionery art. On your way to Faros
on the highest peak of Profitis Ilias mountain (the Lighthouse), do visit the monastery of Pana-
(680 m), where education was provided gia Vrysiani (1642), which houses a Museum of
on religious icon painting. Ecclesiastical Art.
• To Agios Ioannis Mougos’ monastery - Distance from Apollonia: about 1 km S.
situated on the northern slope of the mountain.
• To Kato Petali, 1 km east, and its remarkable Artemonas 4
church of Zoodochos Pigi (Fountain of Life) Artemonas is the second largest village of Sifnos,
34. Traditional architecture is Apollonia’s strongpoint.

having neoclassical mansions, gardens and yards
4Sifnos150a_new-ENG_NOV14.indd 1 06/11/2014 3:26 μ.μ.
with flower beds. Two windmills still stand on the
hilltop offering a panoramic view of the island.
Distance from Apollonia: 1.5 km N.
Must see:
• The house of the poet Ioannis Gryparis
(1870-1942).
• The confectionery and pottery workshop.
• The interesting architecture in the church of
Panagia Kogchi and the church of Panagia
tis Ammou or Samou (renovated in 1788),
where there is a rare depiction of Panagia
i Monachi (the Nun) without the divine infant.
• Ano Petali, the village with a breathtaking
view towards the east (especially from
the yard of Agios Ioannis’ Church) and Agios
Antypas’ Church (1636).
• The village of Agios Loukas or Ai Loukas.
SIFNOS
Visit the church and side chapel (called dual
hypostasis church) dedicated to Panagia
ta Gournia and Agios Nikolaos. Notice the murals
painted by Agapios, a local great iconographer
(icon painter). From Kamaroti district, you can
29
WEST CYCLADES
enjoy the view of central Sifnos up to area of Kastro.
Kastro 5
Kastro is an astonishingly beautiful fortified village
that maintains its mediaeval structure intact and its
old mansions. It used to be the island’s old capital
from classical antiquity until 1836. The dense
structure of buildings highlights the village’s defensive
nature. Distance from Apollonia: 3 km E.
Must see:
• Lozies, the Castle’s old entrances - galleries.
• The churches of Agios Stefanos and Agios
Ioannis (1629), at the village’s entrance.
This was the location of the once famous
School of the Holy Sepulchre which ran
36. A typical alley in Kastro.
from 1687 to 1835, and became known as
«Paideftirion tou Archipelagous” are displayed ranging from the Geometric
(the Archipelago’s Educational Establishment). up to the Byzantine period.
• The Archaeological Museum, where • The churches of Panagia i Eleousa (1653),
a collection of sculptures and ceramics Panagia “I Koimisi”(Dormition) (1593),
having floors with folk art decorations and
35. General view of the citadel of Kastro,
the Sacred Altar situated in the exact
perched on a steep rock above the sea.
location of an ancient altar, Agios Nikolaos
(1566) and Agios Ioannis Theologos (1617).
Kamares 6
Kamares is the largest coastal village and port of the
island since the late 19th century. Do visit the church
of Agios Georgios (1785) and Agia Varvara, Fanari
(1896) and remains of the furnaces and the lifting
device for loading mineral ore (1883). Enjoy the
lovely sunset view from the church of Agia Marina.
Distance from Apollonia: 5.5 km NW.
Faros 7
Faros is located in the southeastern part of Sifnos
and is considered to be the safest harbour on the
island (it used to be its main port until 1883). At the
port’s entrance you will see petrogoleta, a rocky islet
broken away from the land, where the monastery of
Panagia Chrysopigi (1650) stands, the patron saint
of Sifnos. Distance from Apollonia: 7 km SE.
37. Traditional chickpea soup
is one of the island’s most renowned dishes.
Platys Gialos 8
Platys Gialos is the island’s most popular
beach and one of the largest in Cyclades. In small island where Panagia Kypriani church
the village’s ceramics workshops you will find stands dating back to 1732. Distance from
wonderful local pottery products. It is worth Apollonia: 9 km S.
visiting the monastery of Panagia tou Vounou
(1813). To the northeast, ancient ruins of a Vathy 9
tower were discovered in Aspros Pyrgos [White
A picturesque coastal village built on a virtually
Tower] location. To the southeast, at the bay’s
enclosed sheltered bay. It is the native village
entrance, lies Kitriani, a private, uninhabited
of many ceramicists. Visit Agios Andreas
38. Profitis Ilias’ church (8th c.) church (1701) and the prehistoric citadel
is the island’s most important byzantine monument. located nearby. Distance from Apollonia:
10.5 km SW.
Cherronisos 10
Cherronisos is a traditional fishing village with a
small beach within a picturesque cove. Distance
from Apollonia: 15 km NW.
Events
• Feasts of Analipsis (Ascension) and Chrysopigi,
of Profitis Ilias (July 19th), Agios Panteleimonas
(July 26th), Agios Symeon (August 31st and
September 2nd), Taxiarchis
(September 5th), Stavros (September 13th) and
Agios Nikitas (September 14th).
• The burning of Judas’ effigy, at Easter.
• Lolopanigyro, in February.
• Kyr-Vorias, held on the last Carnival Sunday in
Artemonas.
• Tsounia - a game practiced during the Lent.
• Cultural events - in the summer.
Tsopos, and Cherronisos.
SIFNOS
• Camping sites at Kamares and Platys Gialos.
• Diving.
• Spear fishing.
• Hiking along the routes and paths of Artemonas
- Kastro, Katavati - Apollonia, Katavati - Agios
31
Andreas, Katavati - Monastery of Profitis Ilias,
WEST CYCLADES
Apollonia - Exampela and Faros
• Monastery of Panagia Chrysopigi (on the
seafront).

• Sifnos Municipal office: 22843-60.300
• Kamares Municipal office:
22840-31.977
39. Platys Gialos is a hotspot for tourists. • Port Authority: 22840-33.617
• Traditional cooking fair - in the summer. • Municipal campsite: 22840-71.286
• Vrysi Monastery: 22840-31.937
Activities • Folk Art Museum:
on the island
• Water sports.
22840-31.341, 33.730
• Archaeological Museum (in Kastro):
22840-31.028
• Swimming at the beaches of Panagia Poulati,
Seralia, Kamares, Fasolou, Faros, Glyfo, Vathy, Website: www.sifnos.gr
40. Agios Andreas’ church by the prehistoric acropolis (part of the walls still standing) on the way to Vathy.
41. Kamares village photographed from the hill
where the church of Profitis Ilias Troulakiou stands.
WEST CYCLADES SIFNOS
33
Μilos
42. A aerial view of Plaka.
M
ilos is located at the southwestern edge of Cyclades and is the group’s fifth largest island. It has
an area of 151 sq. km, a coastline of 126 km and there are 4,770 inhabitants. The strange shapes
of its rocks, the beautiful colours, the ensnaring white sandy beaches and sculpted rocks are due
to the island’s volcanic terrain.
Milos is rich in mineral resources. The extraction of obsidian (a jet black volcanic glass rock) contributed
to the island’s booming economy in ancient times. This is the location of one of the oldest mines in the
Mediterranean.
Milos Island has been inhabited since prehistoric times. During the Persian Wars, the locals fought against
the Persians in the naval battle of Salamina and they kept a neutral position later during the Peloponnesian
War. Trade thrived in Roman times. In the Byzantine period, the island suffered frequent pirate raids,
with locals taking refuge mainly in the south side, in caves and coves. The island was later ruled by the
Venetians and after that by the Turks. In the 20th century, Milos has become a major mining area, as
extraction of perlite, kaolin and bentonite continues to the present day.
43. Local silver stater [coin], 5th c. BC, depicting an apple (Numismatic Museum, Athens).
Plaka 1 photographic material relating to everyday life.
MILOS
• To the church of Panagia Thalassitra, near
Plaka is the capital town of the island, built on a
the castle ruins.
hill 220 metres up Adamantas bay. It is one of
• To the church of Panagia Skoiniotissa or
the most picturesque towns in Cyclades, built
in the architectural style that is typical of the
Mesa Panagia and the Catholic Church of
Panagia Rosaria, built in 1823.
35
Aegean islands, having picturesque churches
• To the windmills further up Triovasalos.
WEST CYCLADES
and narrow streets laid with stone. Close to Plaka
• To Fourkovouni, a coastal village lying 3.5
there are many small picturesque villages such as
km W.
Fyropotamos, Plathiena, Fourkovouni and Klima.
• To Sarakiniko, a coast of astonishing natural
beauty with snow-white smooth rocks, 5 km E.
Promenade in P laka Trips around
• To the 13th century Venetian
castle, where you can enjoy
a lovely view of the area and
the island
a breathtaking sunset. Trypiti 2
• To the 19 th century Trypiti is a beautiful village built
Metropolitan Church in the typical Cycladic archi-
of Panagia Korfiatissa. tectural style, with picturesque
• To the island’s windmills and a lovely view of
Archaeological Museum, Milos bay. Distance from Plaka:
exhibiting finds from ancient 2 km S.
Fylakopi and a copy of the famous
Venus of Milos, the masterpiece of a statue Klima 3
discovered in the 19th century on the island. This is a small fishing village whose main cha-
• To Mnimeio Pesonton (Fighters’ Memorial), racteristic is syrmata, i.e. colourful little houses,
next to the Archaeological Museum. where boats are kept in wintertime. Many fish-
• To the Folk Art and History Museum housed ermen turn syrmata into summer lodges during
in a 19th century mansion, displaying traditional that season.
items, a collection of local minerals and Distance from Plaka: 3.5 km S.
44. The traditional syrmata in Klima.

45a,b. The ancient theatre of Milos (left); the statue of Aphrodite (right) was discovered nearby.
los150a_new-ENG_NOV14.indd 1 06/11/2014 3:27
mine is situated 6.5 km E. of Zefyria, and used to
Must see:
MILOS
be running until 1956. Distance from Plaka:
• The Ancient Roman theatre: In 1820, 9 km SE.
a farmer discovered here the famous statue
Apollonia
of Aphrodite (Venus of Milos) that is on
display at the Louvre Museum.
(Pollonia) 6 37
• The Catacombs (2nd-5th c. AD): next to
WEST CYCLADES
Apollonia is a picturesque fishing village built in
the catacombs of Rome and the Holy Land,
a beautiful bay opposite the island of Kimolos.
these are the most important early Christian
Distance from Plaka: 11.5 km NE.
cemeteries and places of worship dating back
to the Christian persecution period.
Must see:
Many graves have been decorated with floral
motifs and symbolic representations. • The ruins of Fylakopi, an ancient town
It is estimated that over 2,000 Christians on the way from Adamantas to Apollonia.
were buried in the catacombs. It prospered during the three periods
There are five corridors (total length: that represent the phases of the Cycladic
185 metres) and entrance is through civilisation.
the second one (that of «the Elders»). • Papafragka’s cave, one of the island’s
most famous natural attractions.
Adamantas 4 The Glaronisia group of islets lie opposite
This is the port of Milos Island, constructed in the the cave. You can access the area by boat only.
bay which is considered one of the largest natural • The churches of Agia Paraskevi
harbours in the Mediterranean. The village was and Agios Nikolaos.
built in 1835 by Cretans and has traditionally styled
houses. Distance from Plaka: 4 km SE. Provatas 7
Provatas is a coastal village on the island’s
Must see:
southern side with a lovely beach. Distance from
• The 17th century church of Agia Triada (Holy
Plaka: 10.5 km S.
Trinity), housing the Ecclesiastical Museum,
with significant icons, epitafioi (i.e. pieces of
cloth sewn or painted, symbolising the shroud
Chivadolimni 8
of Christ), and gold votive offerings. It is one of Milos’ most beautiful areas. It was
• The Churches of Koimisi tis Theotokou 46. The Mining Museum.
(Dormition of the Mother of God)
and Agios Charalampos.
• The Cultural Centre building.
• The Memorial to the French killed during
the First World War, in Bomparda.
• The Milos Conference Centre.
• The Mining Museum displaying items
related to the mining history of Milos.
• The beaches Lagkada and Papikinou.
Zefyria 5
Zefyria was the first mediaeval capital of Milos.
In the 18th century, the village was destroyed by
an earthquake; it was then abandoned only to be
repopulated later. Walk along its picturesque alleys
and visit the 17th century church of Panagia Portiani,
the island’s old metropolitan church. The sulphur
Events
• Milos Festival, during the summer months.
• Performances at the ancient theatre, in the
summer months.
• Panagia Korfiatissa’s feast.
• Feasts of Panagia on August 15th and of Agia
Triada in Adamantas.
• Agia Paraskevi’s feast in Apollonia, on July 26th.
• Panagia tou Kipou’s feast, on August 23rd.
• Agios Theologos’ feast, on September 26th.
Activities
on the island
• Hiking following the course: Catacombs -
Theatre - Profitis Ilias (2.5 km), Zefyria - Agia
Kyriaki Beach (5 km), Fylakopi - Mandrakia
47. Cave-like rock formations in Papafragka area.
(9 km), Fyropotamos - Lagkada (13 km) and
named after a small lake located nearby whose Kipos - Psathadika - Xylokeratia.
bottom is teeming with clams [achivades]. Visit • Swimming at the beaches of Lagkada,
the church of Panagia tou Kipou (meaning Our
Bomparda and Papikinou, in Rivari, Fatourena,
Lady in the Garden) - the oldest church on the
Patrikia, Ammoudaraki, Triades and Agkathia,
island. Distance from Plaka: 11 km S.
in Pachaina, Papafragkas, Kapros, in Agios
Konstantinos, in Alogomantra and Mytakas, in
Must see:
Provatas, Agios Sostis, Psathi, Katergo and in
• Kleftiko: this is Milos’ most impressive
Geronta, in Fyriplaka, Tsigkrado, Gerakas, Agia
landscape and the most famous natural
Kyriaki and Fyropotamos.
attraction, located in the southwestern part
• Wind surfing, especially in the area of
of the island. The huge white rocks, rising
Chivadolimni.
in the middle of the sea, create an imposing
• Diving.
landscape. You can access Kleftiko by boat
• Kite surfing.
from Adamantas which is the departure point
• Canoe kayaking.
for boat tours around the island.
• Spear Fishing.
• Sykia: this is one of the biggest and most
• Water sports.
beautiful sea caves in Milos. It is located
• 4x4 vehicle and dirt bike riding in the area of
in the southwestern side of the island, 22 km
Emporeios and Trachilas.
from Adamantas. Access to the cave
• Bathing in mineral water springs, in Lakkos
is by boat from Adamantas as above.
springs, in the area of Adamantas.
Emporeios 9 Useful phone numbers (+30)

It is a picturesque village on the west side of • Milos Municipal Office: 22870-21.370
Milos, with a lovely sandy beach and tranquil • Tourist Information Office:
scenery. You can see the old iron mines in the 22870-22.445
area as well as a small lagoon named Rivari. • Police - Tourist Police station:
Distance from Plaka: 19.5 km SW. 22870-21.378
MILOS
39
WEST CYCLADES
48. Agia Kyriaki, one of Milos’ many lovely beaches.
• Rural Health Centre: 22870-22.700 • Ecclesiastical Museum (Adamantas):

• Port Authority: 22870-23.360 22870-23.956
• Airport: 22870-22.090 • Catacombs: 22870-21.625
• Folk Art Museum: 22870-21.292 Website: www.milos.gr
• Mining Museum (Adamantas):
22870-22.481
49. Impressive rocks made of petrified lava in Sarakiniko.

50. Kleftiko attracts thousands of visitors every year
who enjoy the crystal-clear waters by the impressive white cliffs.
WEST CYCLADES MILOS
41
Κimolos
51. View of the village and harbour of Psathi.
K
imolos is part of the group of the western Cyclades, and is located next to Milos. Despite its
small size (area: 39 sq. km, coastline: 38 km and population: 770), it possesses numerous sites
that are worth visiting. It is a volcanic island with a startling variety of rock formations, such as
bentonite (or chalk land), a type of primary rock that was used to make porcelain. Kimolos is endowed
with lovely beaches of fine sand and pebbles in small picturesque coves. The Mediterranean monk seal
Monachus monachus takes refuge on its shores.
Kimolos’ history has always been connected to Milos, having shared its fate. In the Middle Ages it was
conquered by the Venetians and was named Arzantiera. Throughout the Venetian and Ottoman rule it
suffered pirate raids and that was why it was almost deserted by the late 18th century.
Chorio Kimolou 1
KIMOLOS
The capital town of the island is made up of
two settlements, the Old and the New Village
(Chorio). Built around the original nucleus of the
mediaeval castle, the Old Village bears all the 43
features of the Cyclades architectural style and
WEST CYCLADES
is particularly picturesque. In the original castle,
built in the 13th century, the houses formed the
outer wall and had windows - embrasures. The
islanders used to hide in the castle during the
pirate years up until the Second World War. The
New Village was built in the 17th century on the
outer side of the castle, and extended around
the Old Village, with square austere buildings,
unlike the domes and arches typical of the Old
Village’s buildings.
Must see:
• The mediaeval castle, formerly a pirate
hide-out.
• The Archaeological Museum with 52. Typical alley in Chorio Kimolou [Kimolos’ Village].
finds from excavations in “Ellinika” location,
in a restored dwelling in the mediaeval castle.
covering the period from the Mycenaean
It displays the collection of every day life objects
up to the Hellenistic times.
donated by the physician Manolis Christoulakis.
• The Folk Art & Maritime Museum housed
• The Metropolitan church of Panagia
Odigitria, with its 17th and 18th century
53. The picturesque Goupa-Kara small harbour.
remarkable icons.
• Afentakeio Foundation.
• Myloi (the Mills), in Xaplovouni location.
• The church of Gennisis tou Christou
(Nativity of Christ) (1592).
• The churches of Panagia Eleoussa,
Agios Nikolaos (17th c.) Agios Georgios
(with 17th century icons), Agioi Anargyroi,
Taxiarches (Archangels), Zoodochos Pigi
(Life Giving Fountain), Agios Spyridonas,
Saranta Martyres (Forty Martyrs), Agios
Chrysostomos and Evangelistria (1608).
• Paliokastro (Portara) NW of the capital
town, where there are ruins of houses and
a round tower. Potsherds were found here
with decorations dating to the Geometric
and Archaic periods. Situated further
to the north, you will find Konsolina Cave,
another interesting place to visit.
• Vromolimni Cave in the northern
part of the island, the largest among a series
of caves formed in the rock.
• The monastery of Agios Minas.
Alyki - Kalamitsi 3
Alyki and Kalamitsi are resort villages in the
Trips around the island island’s southern side with gorgeous beaches.
Distance from Chorio: 1.5 and 3.5 km
respectively, SW.
Psathi 2
It is the island’s port and yet another beautiful Must see:
Cyclades village with white houses, narrow • The rock formations over Ellinika.
alleys paved with cobblestones, small lodges • Agios Andreas islet, opposite Ellinika.
for sheltering boats and yards with flower beds.
Distance from Chorio: 1.5 km S.
Events
Must see: • “Cultural August”. Visit exhibitions and enjoy the
sports activities, events for children, competitions
• The ancient town in Ellinika
and entertainment with music & dancing.
(go by boat from Psathi’s port, 5 km W),
• Profitis Ilias’ feast, on July 20th.
where a necropolis (cemetery) was found
• Panagia Konomou’s feast, on August 15th.
with tombs dug in the rock.
• Agia Methodia’s feast, on October 5th.
• Prassa, an area where chalk is extracted.
• Panagia Odigitria’s feast, on November 21st.
KIMOLOS
45
WEST CYCLADES
54. Impressive rock formations in Ellinika.
Activities • Archaeological Museum: 22870-51.291
on the island • Folk Art - Maritime Museum:

22870-51118
• Hiking following the route from Chorio Kimolou Website: www.kimolos.gr
to Xaplovouni - Agios Nikolaos - Goupa-Kara,
towards Skiadi - Mavrospilaia beach, towards
55. Bonatsa beach.
Palaiokastro - Klima, towards Monastiria - Soufi
and to Ellinika.
• Diving.
• Bathing in sulphur hot springs located in Prassa.
• Fishing.
• Swimming in Psathi, Goupa-Kara, Klima, Livadaki,
Deka, Pigados, Prassa, Agios Georgios, Vromolimno,
Alyki, Bonatsa, Kalamitsi, Fykiada, and Mavrospilaia.
Take the local excursion boat to Lakos, Athinia,
Therma, Agioklima, Soufi, Monastiria and to
Polyaigos island.
Useful phone numbers (+30):

• Kimolos Municipal Office: 22870-51.767
• Rural Health Centre: 22870-51222
Andros
56. View of Chora.

Riva square and Kato Kastro [Lower Castle] can be seen on the right edge. Paraporti beach is in the forefront.
A
ndros is the northernmost island of the Cyclades, with great seafaring tradition. There are sandy
beaches, rocky coasts, and mountain ranges alternating with fertile plains, lush vegetation and
many streams. Andros has always been seen as a gateway to the Aegean Sea.
The island area is 400 sq. km, the coastline is 177 km and the population amounts to 10,000.
In antiquity it was a remarkably well organised society with high cultural standards. It has been
inhabited since prehistoric times. In the 7th century BC, its residents founded extensive colonies in
Macedonia. The Venetians occupied Andros until 1566 when the Turks conquered it. In 1790, the
fleet led by Lampros Katsonis clashed with Turkish forces and suffered great destruction near the
island’s north-west shores, at Kafireas strait. Andros took part in the 1821 Greek Independence War.
One of the prominent personalities of the time was the scholar Theophilos Kairis.
take place.
ANDROS
• To Empeirikeion Retirement Home and
to Empeirikeion High School housing
exhibitions organised by Vassilis and Eliza
Goulandris Foundation.
• To the house of Theophilos Kairis, opposite
47
the metropolitan church.
NORTH CYCLADES
• To the Municipal Theatre, a venue for
theatrical performances and film screenings.
• To Plateia tis Rivas (Riva’s Square) where
the statue of the Unknown Sailor stands,
crafted by sculptor Michalis Tompros.
• To Kato Kastro (Inner Castle). Constructed
by the Franks in the early 13th century, it is
connected with the land by a 13th century
single-arch stone bridge.
• To Faros Tourliti (meaning Tourlitis Lighthouse)
on a rock at the harbour’s entrance.
• To the Archaeological Museum displaying
finds (such as statues, inscriptions, jewellery,
57. Panagia Thalassini, etc.) from Zagora, Korthi and Palaiopolis. The
a beautiful country chapel by Nimporio beach. marble fountain of Kampani (early 19th c.) - an
Ottoman relic, can be seen in the yard.
Chora Androu 1 • To the Folk and Christian Art Museum
The capital town of Andros is located on the founded by Marios Vasilopoulos and Eirini
east part of the island. It is a town with a noble Mantzavelaki-Vasilopoulou.
character. The mediaeval, neoclassical island
houses, the impressive buildings and wide steps 58. Empeirikeio Retirement Home.
along the alleys, the tree-lined spacious square,
the narrow streets, remarkable churches and
museums, shops, cafés and restaurants create
a charming picture. It is the homeland of famous
sea captains and ship-owners.
Town promenade
• To the churches of Koimisi tis Theotokou
(Dormition of the Mother of God), Panagia
Palatiani (Agia Tsoura) where you will see
a remarkable wood-carved iconostasis, the
17th century Agios Georgios (Metropolitan
Church), Panagia Theoskepasti (patron saint
of the island), Agios Andreas ton Latinon and
Panagia Thalassini built on a rock by the sea.
• To Kaireios Library housed in a 1919 mansion,
displaying the collection of Theophilos Kairis
(1784-1853), a theologian, philosopher and a
1821 Greek Independence War militant.
• To Petros and Marika Kydonieos Foundation
where painting and sculpture exhibitions
59α,β. The Museum of Modern Art (Goulandris Museum) in
Chora (right) houses remarkable works of art
by leading Greek and foreign artists (left).
• To the Museum of Modern Art established
ANDROS
by the Vasilis and Eliza Goulandris
Foundation, displaying works of art by great North
Greek and foreign artists, and hosting major
periodic exhibitions.
• To Nimporio, a seaside village with cypress
Stenies 2
Stenies is a beautiful village and the homeland of
49
many sea captains and shipowners, with its houses
NORTH CYCLADES
tree rows, abundantly flowing waters,
picturesque bridges, and fields where citrus surrounded by thick green foliage and fruit trees.
trees and vegetables are grown. Bisti-Mouvela tower stands out as one of the few
• To the arched stone bridge in the ravine remaining fortified residences in Andros. The beach
near Nimporio. of Gialia is located within a short distance; notice
the river estuary in the middle of it. Distance from
• To Livadia, a village with cypress tree rows,
Chora: 4.5 km NW.
many streams, estates planted with citrus
fruits and vegetables.
Must see:
• To Vrachno, a village affording a wonderful
view of the town. • Gefyri tou Leontos (the Bridge of the Lion).
• To Syneti, a picturesque village (7 kms S.) • Bisti - Mouvela tower, a 17th century
built close to a gully that is a butterfly habitat. three-storeyed building.
• To the Cyclades Olive (Elia) Museum at • Agios Georgios’ church, located in the tower.
the village Pitrofos (7km W). It is housed in a
19th century building and visitors get to see a
typical example of a pre-idustrial type, family-
Activities
• Swimming at Gialia and Piso Gialia beaches.
owned olive oil producing unit as a traditional
manufacturing activity (www.musioelias.gr). Apoikia 3
Activities Apoikia is well known for its Sariza spring, and is
surrounded by lush vegetation and many streams.
• Swimming at the beaches of Chora, Nimporio There is a famous brand water bottling factory in
and Paraporti. the village. Distance from Chora: 6 km NW.
60. Panoramic view of Stenies village, built in a verdant area.

Must see:
• Ypsili Archaeological site. There are ruins
of a settlement dating back to the Geometric
period (10th-8th c. BC), a citadel (acropolis)
and a megaron-shaped archaic temple
(6th c. BC), dedicated to Demeter
(the ancient Greek goddess of farming)
and her daughter Persephone (or Kore).
• Agios Filippos’ church.
• Zoodochos Pigi’s Monastery (Monastery
of the Life Giving Fountain) in Kapsorachi
location. The present monastery buildings were
constructed in the 18th century.
The monastery keeps the skull of Agios
Tryfonas and other religious heritage items.
• The villages of Ano Aprovatou and Kato
Aprovatou (meaning Upper and Lower
Aprovatou), offering a lovely view of the Aegean.
61. Ypsili archaeological site. • Gavronisia, a group of islands to the West.
Must see:
• Sariza spring area. The water is bottled Activities
and distributed throughout the country, • Swimming at the beaches of Batsi, Stivari and
as its quality is quite remarkable. Agia Marina.
• Agia Eirini’s church, 2 km N.
• Agia Marina’s Monastery, 5.5 km S,
Gavrio 5
overlooking Apoikia and Stenies. The port of Gavrio has been built in an area that has
• Pythara, a wooded ravine with running waters. been populated since antiquity. Along the waterfront,
• Agios Nikolaos’ Monastery, 5.5 km N,
possessing a noteworthy wood-carved
iconostasis and a number of precious religious
heritage items.
• Vourkoti, a mountain village, 8.5 km W.
• Agios Ioannis’ country chapel at the top of
the rock, offering a breathtaking panoramic view
of the area.
• Faros (the Lighthouse) in Cape Gria.
• Achla bay, with a lovely sandy beach
(among the best ones on the island)
and a small river estuary on its southern side.
Activities
• Swimming at Achla beach.
Batsi 4
Batsi is a village that is very popular among
holidaymakers, built on the semicircle around the
bay with the sandy beach. Fishing and excursion
boats drop anchor in its port. Distance from
Chora: 22 km W.
ANDROS
51
NORTH CYCLADES
63. Achla beach is one of the most beautiful in Cyclades.
there are popular coffee bars, restaurants and dating back to the 4th - 3rd c. BC.
tavernas. Distance from Chora: 32 km NW. • Fasa lighthouse.
• The wind turbines near Kalyvari village.
Must see:
• Agios Nikolaos’ church.
• Ano Gavrio village, offering a lovely
Activities
view of Gavrio. • Follow the impressive route along the northwest
• Agios Petros village, and the nearby tower, coast, starting at Gavrio, crossing the bays and
beaches of Fellos, Kourtali, Pisolimnionas, Agios
62. Βusy Batsi village and beach.
Sostis bay, Kaminaki, Vlychada and the ruins of
its tower, Selienitis, Mikri Peza and Megali Peza.
• Go swimming at the beaches of Lopesi, Chrysi
Ammos, Kato Agios Petros, Kypri, Fellos, Kourtali,
Pisolimnionas, Agios Sostis, Kaminaki, Vlychada,
Selienitis, Megali Peza, and Mikri Peza.
64. The fortress-like tower of Agios Petros

is 20 m. high and 6.5 m. in diameter.
65. Panachrantos’ Monastery,
one of the island’s major religious monuments.
Ammolochos 6 Must see:

Ammolochos is an old mountain village, spread • Mouria Fountain, built in 1882. The expenses
out across the NW part of the island. There is a were covered by Leonidas D. Karakitsos.
story that this was the native village of Samuel, a • The 17th - 18th century castle of Dimitrios
legendary monk, who met a heroic death, together Giannoulis.
with Souliotes (Souliótēs) (inhabitants of Souli
village), in Kougki, Thesprotia in 1803. Distance South
from Chora: 42.5 km NW.
Mesaria 7
66. Traditional dry stone wall in a rural area. Mesaria is one of the most beautiful inland
villages of Andros. During the Byzantine period
and after that, it was the hub of the island life,
as it was situated at a distance from the unsafe
coastline, due to pirate raids. Distance from
Chora: 4.5 km SW.
Must see:
• Agios Nikolaos’ church, built in 1734.
The wood-carved iconostasis and the icons
date back to 1742.
• The 12th century Byzantine church of
Taxiarchis.
67. Local copper coin (3rd – 1st c. BC) bearing the inscription ΑΝΔΡΙ [ANDRI] (Numismatic Museum, Athens).
Palaiopoli 9
ANDROS
• The 12th - 13th century church of Koimisi
tis Theotokou, at Mesathouri village.
Palaiopoli is a village built in an amphitheatrical
• Lamyra, Ypsilou and Strapouries villages formation, affording a magnificent view of the
53
with beautiful dense vegetation, flowing waters Aegean. It is situated at the site of ancient Andros
and a spectacular view of Chora. town, the administrative centre of the island
• Aladino village, and Stoicheiomeni stone from the 6th century BC until the 6th century AD.
NORTH CYCLADES
bridge. Foros cave is located near the village. Within the greater Palaiopoli area you will find
• Panachrantos’ Monastery, further up the prehistoric settlement of Plaka, the village of
Fallika village. It was founded in the Zagora dating back to the Geometric
10th century by emperor Nikiforos Period and the fortified settlement
Fokas II and is the keeper of of the Neolithic period (4500-3300
BC) where carvings on rocks
a large number of religious
depicting various animals,
heritage items.
ships and linear shapes were
discovered. Distance from
Chora: 16 km W.
Menites 8
Menites is a green village, built
Must see:
in an area of wonderful natural
environment, rivers and centuries- • The ancient town of Andros,
old trees. Distance from Chora: 5 km SW. which was fortified during the
Hellenistic period (4th-3rd c. BC).
Must see: Remains of a fortified wall as well as a market-
place and temples have been located in the area.
• Panagia Vergi’s church and the wood- • The Geometric Period settlement, in
carved icon screen. Zagora, southeast of Palaiopoli. It was protected
• Dionysos Spring, and the impressive by strong walls and had a sanctuary that was
lion heads. in use from the 8th until the 5th century BC.
• The 11th century Byzantine church • The Archaeological Museum where finds
of Taxiarchis tis Melidas, with 12th century from the Prehistoric up to the Early Christian
murals. times are on display.
68. Popular Agios Petros beach is one of the best on the island.
• Zoodochos Pigi Monastery, at Fletra
location, next to a spring.
• Agios Ioannis’ country chapel at
Kremmydes location.
• The fortified Byzantine monastery
of Tromarchion (Panagia Tromarchiani)
with its high walls, offering a beautiful view
of the surrounding area.
• The villages Aidonia, Mousionas,
Amonaklios, Aipatia, Korthi and Kapparia,
where you can stroll by traditional houses,
towers and dovecotes.
• Kochylos village, overlooking Ormos Korthiou.
69. Tis grias to pidima beach - the upright rock

is quite a landmark.
Events
• International Choral Festival in June.
Activities • Gavriotika, cultural events in Gavrio, during the

summer months.
• Swimming at Palaiopoli beach, at Chalkolimnionas
• Panagia Theoskepasti’s feast, on the last Friday
and Plaka.
of Salutations to the Virgin Mary (fifth Friday of
Ormos Korthiou Lent before Easter) in Chora.
[Korthi Cove] 10 • Panagia’s feast, in Chora, on August 15th.
It is a picturesque coastal village with a long • Feasts of Agia Marina on July 17th, of Gennisis
beach and beautiful houses, widely known for tis Theotokou (Virgin Mary’s Birth) on September
its lively fairs. Distance from Chora: 21 km SE. 8th, and Koimissis tis Theotokou (Dormition of the
Mother of God) on August 15th, in Apoikia.
Must see: • Feast in Zoodochos Pigi Monastery, on July 27th.
• Epano Kastro (Upper Castle), and the ruins • Parade in Ormos Korthiou during the Carnival
of a medieval city within. period (Apokries).
70. Kremmydes, an exquisite beach south of Ormos Korthiou.

ANDROS
55
NORTH CYCLADES
71. Once a picturesque fishing village, Ormos Korthiou has evolved into a modern resort area.
• Korthiana, cultural events in Ormos Korthiou

in August.
• Agios Fanourios’ feast, in Ormos Korthiou on • Municipal Office: 22823-60.200/220
August 27 .
th
• Police station (Gavrio): 22820-71.220
Activities • Rural Health Centre: 22823-60.000-1

• Rural Medical Clinic (Gavrio):
on the island 22820-71.210

• Rural Medical Clinic (Batsi):
• Hiking. 22820-41.326
• Sailing. • Port Authority: 22820-22.250
• Wind surfing. International Games are held in • Port Authority (Gavrio): 22820-71.213
Korthi (Ormos Korthiou). • Long Distance Bus terminus (KTEL):
• Rent a boat and visit the nearby beaches and 22820-22.316
the numerous small islands around Andros or go • Taxi stand: 22820-22.171
fishing. • Sariza Spring: 22820-23.799
• Recommended beaches in other parts of the • Archaeological Museum: 22820-23.664
island: in Gavrio, Agios Petros, Kypri, Fellos bay, • Museum of Modern Art: 22820-22.444
Pisolimnionas, in Vitaliou bay, Agios Fanourios, • Museum of Folk and Christian Art:
the “bosom” of Agia Aikaterini, Grias to pidima 22850-22.187
and in Plaka Bay, 3.5 km west of Kapparia village. • Archaeological Museum of Palaiopoli:
Achla though is considered to be the best beach of 22820-42.095
Andros, north of Andros Town (Chora).
Website: www.andros.gr
• Camping site in Gavrio area.
72. Untouched by time, Chora’s character
has kept a smooth blend of the mediaeval,
neoclassical and island-style architecture.
NORTH CYCLADES ANDROS
57
Tinos
73. Local artistic creation can be seen in over 1,000 dovecotes in Tinos (mostly 17th and 18th c.).
T
inos is one of the most fascinating, yet less «known» islands, located in the northern Cyclades
area, between Syros, Andros and Mykonos. For the Greeks, Tinos Island is associated with
the Church of Panagia Megalochari (Mother of God of Great Joy), whose icon is venerated by
thousands of Christians flooding the church each year on August 15th, in order to pray and seek spiritual
guidance and consolation.
Although Tinos is well known as a religious centre, there are also areas of natural beauty and great
sights which remain unknown to most of its visitors, since most people settle for a single-day pilgrimage
trip. There are picturesque villages and you will find the typical Cycladic landscapes in the inland, mainly
mountainous, with traditional communities, the famous dovecotes and lovely country chapels.
In the 8th century BC, Tinos was a colony of Eretria town and later of Athens. From 1207 until 1390 it
belonged to the Gizi family and later passed to Venetian rule. The island has a long tradition in marble
sculpture craft and painting. Many famous sculptors and painters of modern Greece came from Tinos.
The island area is 194.5 sq. km, the coastline is 114 km and there are 8,500 residents.
of Evangelistria, lies the mausoleum of the victims
TINOS
of the cruiser’s sinking.
• To the Art Gallery, where pieces of work by
great Greek and foreign painters are shown.
• To Mikro Parko, to see the busts of major local
artists.
59
• To the catholic church of Agios Nikolaos.
NORTH CYCLADES
• To the church of Koimisi tis Theotokou
(Dormition of the Mother of God).
• To the fountain, dating to the time of Otto, the
first King of Greece (19th century).
• To the Cultural Foundation of Tinos,
displaying works of art by the leading Greek
sculptor Giannoulis Chalepas.
• To Pallada, an area near the port.
• To the church of Timios Stavros (Holy Cross)
74. Panagia Evangelistria’s church in Chora, Tinos. where one can see remains of an 1816 jetty.
• To the remains of the ancient city wall.
Chora 1 • To Mnimeio Pesonton (Fighters’ Memorial)
The capital of Tinos Island used to be a typical (1912) offering a spectacular view of the harbour.
Cyclades town that changed in recent decades • To the Archaeological Museum where there
due to the construction of many modern buildings. are finds from the sanctuaries of Demeter (7th
However, the historic town centre possesses c. BC), as well as of Poseidon and Amphitrite
remarkable Cycladic architectural patterns and (Hellenistic period).
numerous small churches. It is built around the • To the Museum of Tinian Artists.
port where the Megalochari route begins and ends • To Agia Triada’s Monastery (Holy Trinity)
at the imposing church of Panagia tis Tinou. On (18th c.), 2.5 km E., in a wooded area. There is
the right side of the street there is a carpet lane an iconostasis of exquisite art in its main church
reaching up to the churchyard, to facilitate the (katholiko). Also visit the Folk Art Museum of Tinos,
pilgrims who arrive at the Church on their knees, with a remarkable collection of marble lintels.
fulfilling in this way their vow to the Mother of God.
75. View of Chora, Tinos.
Town promenade
• To the Church of Evangelistria, founded in
1823 and built on the spot where the holy icon
of the Annunciation of Virgin Mary was found,
following the vision of Agia [Saint] Pelagia. It is a
brilliant edifice, made of white marble from Paros
and Tinos. It is the first significant architectural
monument of the liberated Greek nation. Do visit
the exhibition of holy icons and heritage items that
includes old icons from churches of Tinos and the
Church vestry containing religious works of art of
gold embroidery and silver objects.
• To the monument of Elli, the Greek cruiser that
was torpedoed by an Italian submarine off the port
of Tinos in August 1940.
Next to the church of Evreseos (i.e. the Finding of
the Icon) located on the ground floor of the church
76. The village and beach of Agios Romanos.
• To Kechrovouni Monastery (10th c.) in Arnados

s180a_new-ENG_NOV14.indd 1
village (9.5 km NE of Chora) a large structure that06/11/2014 3:30 μ
gives the impression of a fortified village. The nun
Pelagia’s cell is located there as well as a Museum
where several remarkable 18th and 19th century
icons and other significant religious heritage items
are kept.

Agios Fokas 2
The beach of Agios Fokas is the nearest to town.
The beach stretches for over 1 km and ends on
the rocks of Vrekastro, a bare conical hill. On
the hilltop you can see the remains of the wall
surrounding a prehistoric settlement. Distance
from Chora: 1.5 km E.
TINOS
61
NORTH CYCLADES
77. Sand dunes on Pachia Ammos beach.
Kionia 3 Agios Ioannis Porto 5

Kionia is Tinos’ most popular resort area. Its beach It’s a promising tourist resort and its beach is
is one of the most beautiful on the island. The ruins among the island’s most popular ones. Distance
of the ancient temple of Poseidon and Amphitrite from Chora: 6.5 km E.
are near the sandy beach. Distance from Chora:
3 km NW. Kampos 6
It is located roughly at the centre of the island,
Agios Sostis 4 displaying the local architectural style and having
This is a lovely beach named after the chapel of approximately 200 dovecotes scattered about the
Agios Sostis built near the seashore. Distance area. It is worth visiting Agia Triada church (Holy
from Chora: 5 km E. Trinity) for its extraordinary pebbled courtyard as
78. Kionia, built in a verdant area; it is famous for its lovely beach.
79. Gallery in Kostas Tsoclis Museum.
well as the 1771 Agia Aikaterini church, built by the picturesque village into a journey through time.
Russian Admiral Orlov. The Xompourgko hill is Distance from Chora: 10.5 km NW.
nearby, at the location of the ancient town of Tinos
which thrived during the 8th c. BC. Venetians built Falatados 9
their castle on the same location, the ruins of which This is a mountain village with a long history. It
stand to this day. Visit Kostas Tsoclis Museum was founded in 1400 and has been populated ever
(tel. 22830-51.009) in the village, where there is a since. There are old well-preserved houses and
permanent collection of artwork by Kostas Tsoclis, many churches of which Agios Nikolaos and Agia
an important contemporary Greek visual artist.
Activities include periodical exhibitions, lectures,
seminars, educational programmes for children
as well as theatrical and music performances.
The museum also houses a library and an open air
cinema. Distance from Chora: 7 km NW.
Volax 7
Here you will find a landscape of exceptional beauty
due to the impressive formations of smooth granite
boulders. In the village you will pass by houses of
particular architectural style, the fountain next to
the laundry sheds (1827), the church of Panagia
tis Kalaman and the Folk Art Museum where 19th
century items are on display. Agapi, a traditional
village, is situated at a 2 km distance N. of Volax.
Visit the church of Agios Agapitos as well as the
laundry shed where locals washed their clothes and
the old water mill. Distance from Chora: 10.5 km N.
Komi 8
This is one of Tinos’ largest and most beautiful
villages, known for its traditional architecture.
Streets paved with cobblestone, houses,
small squares and churches turn a walk in this
TINOS
63
NORTH CYCLADES
81. Rounded granite boulders
lie scattered in the area around Volakas.
Triada (Holy Trinity) stand out. Agia Triada houses
a small yet interesting Ecclesiastical Museum.
Distance from Chora: 12 km NE.
Kardiani 10
Kardiani is a village in an area of dense vegetation
with lots of springs and lofty plane trees.
Archaeologists have discovered six graves nearby
dating to the Geometric period. There are nice
two-storeyed traditional houses in the village. Do
visit the churches of Agia Triada and Koimisi tis 82. The beach in Isternia cove.
Theotokou. Distance from Chora: 16 km NW.
80. Xinara, a picturesque village lying at the foot Isternia 11
of Xompourgko (or Exomvourgko) hill, This is a lovely traditional village located on
is the seat of the catholic bishop of Naxos & Tinos islands.
the west side of Tinos; the houses are built in
an amphitheatrical arrangement on a hillside
affording an amazing view. It has kept its traditional
architectural character that features the well-
known volta and marble arched lintels decorating
two-storeyed houses. The locals are mostly marble
sculptors, some of them renowned, with their
works of art on display in the village’s Art Museum.
The scheduled windmills are definitely among the
places you should visit as well as the church of Agia
Paraskevi with a marble iconostasis. The bay of
Isternia and its beautiful sandy beach is located
at a 4.5 km distance from the village. There is a
picturesque marble-paved alley
leading there from the
village. Distance from
Chora: 19.5 km NW.
83. Local silver coin

(called triovolo)
(510-490 BC)
depicting
a bunch of grapes
(Numismatic Museum, Athens).
85. Museum of Marble Crafts, Tinos. >
Pyrgos 12 Panormos 13
It is Tinos’ largest village and one of the Panormos bay is situated on the northwest side
most beautiful in Cyclades. The stately of Tinos and the picturesque village has been
beauty, traditional architecture, the houses built in a semi-circular manner around the small
adorned with marble arched lintels and the harbour where fishing boats moor. Distance
pristine landscapes, they all create a special from Chora: 28 km NW.
atmosphere. There is a 1778 marble fountain
in the village square. Pyrgos is the village where Events
• The celebration of finding the icon of Panagia
[Virgin Mary] in Chora on January 30th.
• Celebration of Evangelismos (Annunciation) of
the Mother of God on March 25th.
• Panhellenic pilgrimage to Panagia’s Church on
August 15th.
• Panagia Vrysiotissa’s feast on the first Sunday
of May.
• Panagia Kalama’s feast on Thursday of the
week after Easter.
• Agia Varvara’s feast on December 4th.
• Feast at Isternia, on Sunday of Thomas (1st
Sunday after Easter).
• Agios Ioannis Tinachtis’ feast, at Keramoti on
August 29th.
Activities
on the island
• Swimming at Stavros, Agios Markos, Kionia,
Agkali and Agios Fokas; also at Apothikes
84. Gallery of the Museum of Sculpture and Kolympithra and on the beaches of Agios
(of Tinos Artists) in Pyrgos. Romanos, Panousa, Vorni, Apgania, Pachia
many artists come from. This is the birthplace Ammos, Livada, and Agia Kyriaki. The most
of the sculptors Giannoulis Chalepas & Dimitris popular beaches are Kolympithra, Agios Ioannis
Filippotis as well as of the painter Nikiforos Porto, Agios Sostis, Panormos, Isternia and
Lytras. There is a branch of the School of Fine Kardiani.
Arts here. The Museum of Marble Crafts • Fishing.
of Tinos is located just outside the village; • Diving.
it has been the first of its kind in Greece. • Wind surfing.
This modern museum displays a collection of • Spear Fishing.
secular and religious marble objects, as well • Dirt bike riding.
as items and equipment of the timeless marble • Hiking on the following routes: Chora -
crafting technique, emphasising on the island’s Xompourgko (8 km) and Xompourgko - Agapi
tradition. Visit by all means the Museum of (5.2 km) Tripotamos - Agapi (12.5 km) and
Sculpture where works of art by local artists Tripotamos - Pyrgos (21.5 km).
are on display; the museum at the house • Cycling.
of G. Chalepas; the Sculpture Gallery of • Water sports.
Eir. Chariati and sculpture workshops in the • Camping in Chora.
village. Distance from Chora: 24 km NW.
TINOS
65
NORTH CYCLADES
86. Detail from a Tinos dovecote.

• Municipal Office: 22833-60.100
• Police station: 22830-22.255, 22830- 22.100
• Tourist Police station: 22830-23.670
• Rural Health Centre: 22833-60.000
• Long Distance Bus Terminus (KTEL):
22830-22440
• Museum of Marble Crafts (Pyrgos):
22830-31.290
Website: www.tinos.gr
87. Megali Kolympithra, one of the island’s top beaches.

88. Terraced fields, typical of Tinos island.
The west part of Chora lies in the back.
NORTH CYCLADES TINOS
67
Syros
89. Ermoupoli. Ano Syros and San Tzortzi’s church l

ies on the highest location in the back (left); Anastasi [Resurrection] church is on Dili hilltop (right).
«S
yros Island has been called «Lady of the Cyclades» and «nymph of the Aegean Sea». It is the
homeland of Ferekydis, an ancient Greek philosopher, teacher of Pythagoras. In the Neolithic Age,
Syros was one of the most important islands of the Cycladic civilisation. In the 13th century the
Venetians took the island over. The mediaeval town, built on a hill overlooking the port, its founding and
everyday life structure have had a leading impact on the island’s history to this very day. During the Turkish
occupation, many persecuted people from nearby islands took refuge here. In the late 19th century,
the island experienced an unprecedented growth: the construction of boatyards, trading stations and
factories, made Syros one of the most frequently visited islands of the Aegean, and Ermoupoli became
the hub of island life. Area: 84 sq. km, coastline: 87 km, population: 19,800
Town Hall towers over the square and is one of
SYROS
the largest town halls in the country. It was built
from 1876 to 1881, on plans by Ernst Ziller, a
famous architect of that time.
• To the Cultural Centre located next to the
Town Hall, which houses the Municipal Library
69
and visual art exhibitions.
NORTH CYCLADES
• To Apollon Municipal Theatre (1862-1864).
It is a replica on a smaller scale of La Scala di
Milano, a venue for theatrical plays, concerts and
other events.
• To the Church of Anastaseos (Resurrection)
at the top of Dili hill, offering an enchanting view
of the surrounding area (founded in 1874, opened
in 1880, but inaugurated in 1908).
• To the Metropolitan Church of Metamorfosis
tou Sotira (Transfiguration of Christ)
(1824-1831), housing the Ecclesiastical Museum
of Ermoupoli.
• To the Church of Koimisi tis Theotokou
(Dormition of the Mother of God) (1828-
1829) where the icon of Panagia (Virgin Mary)
90. Miaouli Square: Andreas Miaouli’s statue
[an admiral during the 1821 Greek Independence War];
the Town Hall is in the back.
Ermoupoli 1
91. Local silver
four-drachma coin,
Ermoupoli has been named after the ancient 2nd c. BC,
depicting
Greek god Hermes. It is the island’s capital
wreathed Kaveiroi
town and the administrative capital of all [ancient deities]
the Cyclades islands. This is one of the most holding a lance
beautiful Greek towns (12,000 residents), (Numismatic
with many wonderful neoclassical buildings Museum,
Athens).
and a particular architectural style influenced
by the 19th century western standards. It has
been built in an amphitheatrical arrangement on
92. Apollo theatre; an interior view.
the hill overlooking the Aegean. The largest part of The ceiling is decorated
it was built after the 1821 Greek Independence War, with murals of poets and composers.
by refugees who came from Chios, Psara, Kassos,
Kydonia and Smyrna. During that time it became
densely populated and evolved into an important
commercial and manufacturing centre. In addition to
that, and as a result of its geographical location and
the financial boom it experienced, its port became
an important trading and maritime hub of the newly
created Greek state during the 19th century.
Town promenade
• To the famous Miaouli square, ranking high
among the most beautiful squares in Greece. The
93. Detail from the impressive cupola mural of Agios Nikolaos o Plousios’ church.
has been painted by El Greco.

0_new-ENG_NOV14.indd 1 • To the Church of Agios Georgios (1839) 06/11/2014
in the precincts of which there is a cemetery
with very interesting funerary sculptures and
to Agios Nikolaos tou Plousiou church with
an impressive 19th century architectural style.
• To the Monument of Atafou Agonisti (the
Unburied Fighter) (1889), in front of the church
of Agios Nikolaos.
• To the Archaeological Museum, housed in
the Town Hall, established in 1834-1835 and
showcasing major finds from various parts of
the island, mainly around Chalandriani.
• To the Museum of Cycladic Art, where
copies of prehistoric Cycladic art items are on
display; the originals are kept in the Goulandris
SYROS
71
NORTH CYCLADES
94. A view of Ermoupoli and its harbour from the east.
Museum of Cycladic and Ancient Greek Art • To Episkopio village (Piskopio), 5 km SW. This is
(Athens). the island’s winter resort with some magnificent
• To the Industrial Museum of Ermoupoli, 19th century villas.
where you will see a collection of old machinery • To Alithini Cave (5 km W), offering a spectacular
from the factories of Ermoupoli as well an view of Ano Syros and Ermoupoli.
archive of recordings of testimonies.
95. The stone-built lighthouse on Gaidouronisi islet,
• To the Art Gallery of Cyclades, housed in an off Ermoupoli’s harbour is the oldest (built 1834)
1834 neoclassical building with works by Greek and tallest (29m.) of Greek lighthouses.
and foreign artists on display.
• To the Statue of Niki (Victory), dedicated to
3:30 μ.μ.
the National Resistance, on the jetty.
• To the Customs office building, where you
can see the Monument of the Unknown Sailor.
• To the 19th century Lighthouse.
• To Vaporia district in the eastern part of the
town, with impressive neoclassical mansions.
• To Gefyri (Bridge), in the location “Treis
Gefyres” (meaning Three Bridges).
• To Tarsana, an area used for the repair of
small boats, next to Neorio (Dockyard).
Nearby Trips
• To Talanta village, 4km SW, where you can
visit the beautiful church of Agios Ioannis.
Ano Syros
or Epano Chora 2
Ano Syros or Epano Chora, as the locals call it,
keeps its mediaeval appearance unchanged,
with its labyrinthine alleys, traditional snow-
white houses, arches over the street and
narrow alleys with stairs leading to small
neighbourhoods. It was built in the 13th century
by the Venetians on the location of a settlement
dating back to the 8th century. The view from the
hill of Ano Syros is amazing, so do not hesitate
to climb the long flight of stairs leading to the
hilltop where the Church of San Tzortzis stands.
Distance from Ermoupoli: 2 km.
in mediaeval times and repaired in 1834.
Must see: • The Centre for Historical Studies
• Agios Georgios or San Tzortzi church. of the Catholic Diocese.
This is the Catholic Cathedral built
• The Monastery of the Jesuits.
96. Ermoupoli and Ano Syros, • The Monastery of the Capuchins (1633).
photographed from the old Ladopoulos’ factory. • The bust of local writer Velissarios Freris.
• Agia Varvara and Agios Dimitrios
churches.
• The square where the bust of Markos
Vamvakaris stands, the great Greek
composer of rebetiko (a very popular music
genre), who was born here.
• Markos Vamvakaris Museum, exhibiting
his personal items.
• The building of the Town Hall.
• The Historical Archives of Ano Syros
Municipality.
• The Exhibition of traditional crafts.
• The Cultural Centre.
Azolimnos 3
Azolimnos is a seaside village on the southeastern
coast of the island, with a lovely golden sandy
beach. It is the closest beach to Ermoupoli and
one of the most popular on the island. Distance
from Ermoupoli: 5 km SE.
Galissas 4
One of Syros’ most popular and cosmopolitan
excavations of the archaeologist Christos Tsountas.
SYROS
Distance from Ermoupoli: 9.5 km N.
Must see:
73
• The archaeological site of Chalandriani,
NORTH CYCLADES
including the burial ground of the early
Cycladic period, and the prehistoric settlement
with noteworthy finds.
• The archaeological site of Kastrios,
on a rocky elevated terrain with a walled
settlement dating to the period 2300-2200 BC.
• Ferekydis’ cave, where ancient
philosopher Ferekydis lived, according
to tradition (6th c. BC).
• Syringa spring (4 km W), well known
97. Galissas; its popular, long beach. since antiquity.
The view from the area is breathtaking.
tourist resorts. The village was built in a
picturesque bay, and has been populated since
the ancient times. Climb the hill of Agia Pakou to Megas Gialos 7
visit the ruins of a small fortress and the ancient Megas Gialos is a seaside village and popular
acropolis and enjoy the panoramic view of the tourist resort situated on the south side of the
village and the sea. Distance from Ermoupoli: island, with an amazing sandy beach. The beach
9 km SW. of Ampelas is nearby, in a small sheltered bay.
Distance from Ermoupoli: 12 km S.
Kini 5
This is one of Syros’ most picturesque and quiet Foinikas 8
villages, well-known for its fish restaurants. It is This village is a tourist destination with a fine
located on the west side of the island, next to a sandy beach, among the most popular ones on
beautiful sandy beach. If you are looking for more the island. Distance from Ermoupoli: 11 km SW.
quiet and secluded beaches, try Lotos, Varvarousa,
Aetos, Grammata or the breathtaking Delfini Poseidonia
beach. Distance from Ermoupoli: 9 km W. (Delagrasia) 9
Poseidonia, previously called Delagrasia, has been
Chalandriani 6 a cosmopolitan resort since the mid-19th century.
This area is known for its archaeological sites The most prominent feature of the town is the
discovered in the late 19th century following the large number of neoclassical mansions (once
98. Kini cove and the village.

in a verdant area. Distance from Ermoupoli:
13 km SW.
Vari 10
Vari is one of the largest villages on the island,
surrounded by farmland, with picturesque
neighbourhoods and beautiful beaches. The
remains of a prehistoric settlement and tombs
of the Roman period have been found there.
Chrousa, a small traditional village lies 2.5 km
west, nestled in a wooded area amid flowing
waters. Distance from Ermoupoli: 8 km S.
Events
• Ermoupoleia, every summer from mid July to
late August, with various performances such as
concerts, theatre, speeches, etc.
• Science Fiction Festival in Ermoupoli in the
99. A mansion in Poseidonia, housing the Town Hall. spring.
• Carnival parade in Ano Syros.
country residences of wealthy local families), with
• Cultural events in Ano Syros, during the
large gardens, which add an air of refinement to
summer months.
the area. Delagrasia is a corruption of the name
• Feast of Analipsi (Ascension of Christ) in
of the Catholic Church of the Virgin Madonna della
Azolimnos.
Grazia. It was renamed Poseidonia due to the • Cultural events in Poseidonia, in the summer
ancient town by that name located on that site. On period.
the way to Ermoupoli (4 km NE) you will pass by
Parakopi, a traditional village with beautiful villas
Activities
100. Mouses Lounge in Casino Syros.
on the island
• Swimming at Galissas, one of the most popular
beaches, Agkathopes and Komito. There are
beautiful sandy beaches in Kini, Delfini, Aetos
and Lia. Grammata is accessible by boat only;
other great beaches include Vari, Azolimnos,
Foinikas, Achladi, Famprika, Empatis, Santorinioi,
Ampela, Tria Lagonia and Poseidonia.
• Wind surfing.
• Water Skiing.
• Canoeing.
• Sailing.
• Fishing.
• Water sports.
• Diving.
• Camping in Galissas.
• Hiking in Ano Meria (north of Ano Syros),
through a network of marked paths, across
a protected site that has been included in the
Natura 2000 network. There are many springs
4x4 off road vehicle.
SYROS
• Boat trips to Gyaros, the small island (17 sq.
km) used as a place of exile for political prisoners
during the period of the Greek Civil War (1946-
1949) and the 1967-1974 dictatorship. Gyaros
has been characterised as a «historic place» by
75
NORTH CYCLADES
the Ministry of Culture.
• Visit also the Casino (housed in a neoclassical
building in the coastal area of Ermoupoli;
entrance at 14, Stamatiou Proiou Street).
• Syros - Ermoupoli Municipal Office:

22813-61.000
• Hospital: 22813-60.500
• Airport: 22810-87.025
101. Popular Agkathopes beach.
in the area (e.g. Syringa), rocky seashores, • Museum of Cycladic Art: 22810-85.300
interesting caves (Alithini cave and Ferekydis’ • Industrial Museum: 22810-84.762
cave), archaeological sites (in Chalandriani) and • Casino: 22810-84.400
beds of uncommon rock (eklogites). The area is
also a rare bird species shelter. Alternatively you Website: www.hermoupolis.gr
can follow this route by mountain bike or use a
102. Nightlife in Ermoupoli offers countless options for all tastes.

103. Vaporia quarter, Ermoupoli.
Agios Nikolaos o Plousios’ church
rises among the marvellous neoclassical mansions.
NORTH CYCLADES SYROS
77
Mykonos
104. “Little Venice”, the most photographed spot on Mykonos.
Ο
ne of the most famous tourist destinations worldwide! Mykonos is the best known Greek island
worldwide and a favourite destination among celebrities from all over the planet.
It is one of the most beautiful Cyclades islands, with bare hills, stunning sandy beaches, a very
well preserved Cycladic architectural style, little white churches and scenery of unique beauty. In
recent decades many villas and hotels have been built in harmony with the island’s physiognomy
and architecture.
Mykonos is located approximately in the centre of the Cyclades group of islands, between Tinos
and Naxos. It is the island nearest to Delos with an area of 87 sq. km, a coastline of 82 km and a
population of 9,350 people. There is an airport connecting the island with Athens, Thessaloniki and
other Greek cities.
MYKONOS
• To the Folk Art Museum and the Maritime
Museum.
• To the Boni Farming Museum and Mill,
housed in a restored mill.
• To the Municipal Art Gallery, where works
of art by Greek and foreign artists are exhibited.
79
• To the open-air amphitheatre.
NORTH CYCLADES
• To the Mycenaean vaulted tomb (14th-13th
c. BC) in Vrysi location.
• In the narrow streets of Kastro district.
• To the 15th century church of Panagia
Paraportiani, an impressive complex of five
communicating churches.
• To the churches of Panachrantos, Agia
Kyriaki, Agia Eleni and the Catholic Church of
Panagia tou Podariou.
• To the picturesque windmills, Mykonos’
landmark.
105. Bonis Mill housing the Farming Museum
• To Tourlos, where you can visit Agios Georgios’
(Agrotomouseio). church, Ai Giorgis Spilianos’ church built in a cave
and Agia Sofia church, 2 km to the North.
Chora 1 • To Agios Panteleimonas’ Monastery (3 km
This is one of the most beautiful towns in NE of Chora, near Marathi), built in 1665, a
Cyclades, one that has maintained its beautiful, fortified monastery -characteristic of its kind-
unaffected and austere Aegean style intact. with magnificent icons.
Narrow cobblestone-laid streets, small freshly
whitewashed houses with blue windows
and small wooden balconies, pots filled with
multicoloured and fragrant flowers, churches,
museums and streets lined with shops with a Agios Stefanos 2
bustling trade create a remarkable picture. In This is a coastal village that attracts many tourists.
the summertime the narrow streets are full of Do visit the small Agios Stefanos church in the
people walking about and visiting the luxurious village, the 1891 lighthouse of Armenistis in Fanari
shops and boutiques or having fun in the famous area as well as Choulakia, a bay with an impressive
clubs and restaurants. The harbour is equally pebble beach. Distance from Chora: 3 km N.
picturesque and among the multicoloured fishing
boats you get a glimpse of Petros, the famous 106. In Mykonos, fun time starts early in the morning.
pelican and the mascot of the island.
Promenade in Chora
• In Mikri Venetia (Little Venice). Famous
Alefkandra district has also been named Little
Venice because the houses’ foundations were
built in the sea.
• In Matogiannia, a cosmopolitan district in the
heart of Chora.
• To the Archaeological Museum, founded in
1905, displaying finds from the neighbouring
island of Rineia.
107. One of the traditional windmills
on a hill overlooking Chora.
Archaic tombs have been located on the spot.
NORTH CYCLADES MYKONOS
81
Ornos
ykonos150a_new-ENG_NOV14.indd 1 3 Must see: 06/11/2014 3:31 μ.μ.
Ornos is a picturesque village with a small • The 16th century historic Monastery
sheltered harbour and crystal clear beach. of Panagia Tourliani.
Distance from Chora: 3.5km S. • The square with its cafés and restaurants.
• Agios Georgios’ church.
Psarou 4 • Mnimeio Pesonton (Fighters’ Memorial).
• The windmill up on the mound.
A very popular seaside village, a meeting
• The 18th century Monastery
place for the jet-set and the famous. Platys
of Palaiokastro.
Gialos is located nearby where ruins of towers
• The 13th century mediaeval castle of
lie, dating back to the Hellenistic period. At a
Gyzi, and Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) Church.
1 km distance, you will find the beautiful sandy
Ruins dating to the Geometric, Archaic
beaches of Agia Anna and Paragka. Distance and Hellenistic periods can be seen
from Chora: 4.5 km SE. on the hill where the castle stands.
• Foki bay.
Ano Mera 5
Ano Mera is a beautiful and picturesque village, Kalafatis 6
located approximately in the centre of the island, Kalafatis is a coastal tourist area with a small
on the way to the northeast beaches. It is known jetty where fishing boats get moored. The
for its unspoilt, typical Cycladic features and village beach is ideal for water sports and there
traditional tavernas. Distance from Chora: are sights worth visiting such as Divounia where
7.5 km E. ancient relics have been found, and the small
MYKONOS
church in the area of Agia Anna with its sandy • Water sports in Elia.
beach. Distance from Chora: 12 km E. • Football in Ornos.
• Visiting spas.
Events • Hiking.
• Feasts of Agia Paraskevi on July 26th, Panagia
Tourliani on August 15th, Agios Ioannis on
• Diving.
• Spear Fishing.
83
• Sailing.
NORTH CYCLADES
August 29th, the Holy Cross (Stavros) on
September 14th, Agia Sofia on September 17th, • Camping grounds in Agia Anna (Paragka) and
Agios Stefanos on December 27th and Agios Paradise beach (Kalamopodi).
Nikolaos on December 6th.
• Grape harvesting Festival in Agrotomouseio Useful phone numbers (+30):
(Farming Museum) on the second or third Sunday
every September. • Mykonos Municipal Office: 22890-22.201
Activities • Tourist Police station: 22890-22.482

• Rural Health Centre: 22890-23.994
on the island • Port Authority: 22890-22.218

• Airport: 22890-79.000
• Swimming in Megali Ammos, Agia Anna, Paragka, • Long Distance Bus Terminus (KTEL):
Kappari, Glyfadi, Agios Ioannis, Agios Stefanos, 22890-23.360
Choulakia, Foki, Mersini, Merchias, Plyntiria, • Archaeological Museum: 22890-22.325
Vathia Lagkada, Tigani, Elia, Kalafatis, Kalo Livadi, • Folk Art Museum: 22890-22.591
Lia, Tsagkaris, Fragkia, Psarou, Agrari and the • Maritime Museum: 22890-22.700
renowned Paradise and Super Paradise beaches. Website: www.mykonos.gr
• Wind surfing in Ftelia.
108. Paragka beach - fine sand and rocks.

109. Despite the fact that most of the island’s beaches are very popular,
you can still find some quiet ones for relaxing
and enjoying your stay by Mykonos’ lovely waters.
NORTH CYCLADES MYKONOS
85
Delos
110. Detail from the mosaic floor in the House of Dolphins (10th c. BC).
D
elos is a small island in the heart of the Aegean Sea, with an area of 6 sq. km, a major religious
and cultural centre of Greek Antiquity as Apollo, the god of light, was born there, according to
mythology. Ancient Greeks believed that the island, previously named “Adelos – Asteria” (Adelos
meaning not visible), was floating on the sea. Upon birth of the god Apollo there, Adelos became Delos
i.e. visible and was flooded with light and flowers. According to the legend, the island was then tied to the
bottom of the sea. Since 1000 BC, Delos has been a religious centre during the Greek Ancient times and
a commercial centre since 478 BC. Today the island is uninhabited, but there are small boats running an
itinerary daily from the neighbouring port of Mykonos (the distance is 6 nautical miles).
Delos was first inhabited in 2500 BC. The first residents were the Carians, followed by the Mycenaeans.
In 1100 BC, the Ionians populated the island. Around 700 BC, Delos had already been established as the
religious centre of the Ionians who held their Great Assembly there along with other Panhellenic events.
Paros, Naxos, Samos, Athens and many other Ionian cities offered numerous oblations to the sacred island.
When the Persian invaders came, they respected the island’s sacred character. It was here that the first
111. The House of Dionysus (the Theatre quarter).
Delian [or Athenian] League was established
DELOS
(478 BC), aimed at protecting the Ionian cities
against the Persians. During the 3rd century BC
the Athenian influence weakened, and Delos
came under the influence of the Macedonians.
From the middle of the 3rd century BC, Apollo’s
87
NORTH CYCLADES
sacred island turned into a significant trading
centre, with wealthy traders and bankers
settling in. During the Roman period, the island
was declared a free trading port and wealthy
Roman merchants and ship owners moved in. At
that time, 20,000 Romans, Egyptians, Syrians,
Phoenicians and Jews lived in Delos.
In 88 BC the island was destroyed by Mithridates,
the King of Pontus, and completely lost its
sacred character. During the early centuries
of Christianity, the population of the island
diminished, and Delos gradually fell
into an irreversible decline. Any
remnants of the old days of glory
died away after the iconoclast
Byzantine Emperor Leo the
Isaurian plundered the island
112. Local silver stater [coin]
113. The statue of Diodora (6th c. BC) depicting a lyre
and the temple of Isis in the back. (Numismatic Museum, Athens).
in 727 AD, to be followed by the
Slavs in 769 AD, and finally by the
Saracens in 821 AD.
Must see:
The archaeological site of Delos, included
in the UNESCO List of World Heritage sites,
the most important monuments being:
• Agora ton Ermaiston / Kompetaliaston
(Market place of the Hermaists or
Competialists), one of the main market places
of the Hellenistic city of Delos.
• Naos ton Delion (Temple of the Delians), the
largest of the three temples dedicated to Apollo.
• Andiro ton Leonton (Terrace of the Lions)
dedicated to Apollo by the people of the island
of Naxos (7th century BC), with 9 out
of the original 16 marble guardian lions being
preserved, in the renowned “Lions Way”.
• Idryma ton Virytion Poseidoniaston
(Foundation of Beirut Poseidoniasts)
(2nd century BC).
• The Theatre (3rd century BC).
ew-ENG_1_me metafrasi_NOV14.indd 1
114. Andiro 06/11/2014
ton Leonton (Terrace of the Lions). The original statues are exhibited in Delos Archaeological 3:31 μ.μ.
Museum.
• The small islet of Rineia where there are
two harbours although it is uninhabited.
DELOS
Stroll around and discover the island’s tropical
beaches. In antiquity, there was a maternity
clinic and a burial ground on the island
(relevant finds from a common burial place
are exhibited in the Archaeological Museum 89
of Mykonos).
NORTH CYCLADES
The island can be reached by boat from
Mykonos.
General Information
• Overnight stay on the island is not allowed.
• Boats are allowed to moor only during
daytime.
• Swimming in the ancient small harbour is not
allowed.

• Archaeological Site: 22890-22.259
• Port Authority of Mykonos: 22890-22.218
116. General view of the Theatre quarter.
115. Sculpture Complex of goddess Artemis and a deer

(end of 2nd c. BC, Delos Archaeological Museum).
• Dorikos Naos tis Isidas (Doric Temple

of goddess Isis) (2nd century BC).
• Dorikos Naos tis Iras (Doric Temple
of goddess Hera) (500 BC).
• The house of Dionysus (2nd century BC),
famous for the mosaic floor depicting the god
Dionysus riding a panther.
• The mosaic floors of other private residences
such as Oikos Prosopeion (House of Masks),
Oikos Delfinon (House of Dolphins) and Oikos
Triainas (House of Trident).
• The Stadium.
• Oikos Naxion (House of the People of
Naxos), an archaic building with annexes added
during the Classical Period.
• Iero Serapi (Sanctuary of Serapi).
• Iero Syriakon Theotiton (Sanctuary
of the Syrian Gods).
• Iero Kaveiron (Sanctuary of Kabeiroi).
• The Archaeological Museum, one of
the most important museums in relation to the
history of the ancient Greek sculpture but also
one of the most significant Greek museums
in general. It showcases sculptures dating to
the Archaic up to the Late Hellenistic Period,
mosaics, ceramic art, etc.
117. The house of Kleopatra and Dioskouridis.
The statues of the owners can be seen as if greeting their guests.
NORTH CYCLADES DELOS
91
Paros
118. Panoramic view of Paroikia (Parkia), capital town and port of Paros island.
P
aros is located in the centre of the Cyclades islands, and is considered one of the most popular
holiday destinations with unrivalled natural beauty, vast sandy beaches, crystalline seawaters and
stunning scenery. The island’s area is 195 sq. km, its coastline is 120 km and there are 12,800
residents. This place is a cosmopolitan holiday destination with a well-developed tourism infrastructure.
Historically the island of Paros served as an administrative and commercial centre of the Aegean and often
became the apple of discord for many conquerors (Romans, Byzantines, Franks, Venetians and Turks),
who all left their mark on the island. The ruins in the archaeological sites and the important historical
monuments all over the island are testimony to the island’s great prosperity in the past. Paros was
renowned in ancient times for its marble and provided the material for creating many famous monuments.
This island has been the place of origin of famous ancient Greek sculptors, painters and poets. In 1207
Paros became a part of the Duchy of the Aegean and in 1537 it was conquered by the Turks.
Promenade in Paroikia
PAROS
• To the church of Panagia Ekatontapyliani or
Panagia Katapoliani, one of the most important
monuments of the Early Christian period in
Greece. According to tradition, the name 93
Ekatontapyliani means that the church has 100
CENTRAL AND EASTERN CYCLADES

gates, 99 visible ones and a secret one (or in the
case of the name Katapoliani, coming from the
fact that it is located in the lower part of town).
This architectural complex dates back to mid-
6th century AD, while older murals in the Early
Christian complex date to the 7th-8th century.
Ekatontapyliani Church resembles a monastery,
with a courtyard, cells for monks and remarkable
side chapels. Visit by all means the baptistery
119. Section of the walls of Paroikia castle; (4th century), as it is the best preserved font in
Agia Anna’s chapel. the Orthodox East; also do visit the Byzantine
Museum, and its noteworthy exhibits.
Paroikia (Parkia) 1 • To the Venetian castle (13th century), located
on a small hill in the centre of the traditional
Paroikia is the capital town of Paros Island, a very old town. A defensive tower and the southern
beautiful Cycladic town, built on the site of the and eastern parts of the walls remain standing
ancient settlement. Paroikia was destroyed by (where architectural members of ancient temples
the Turks in 1668. Ruins of the neoclassical and have been built in). There are many noteworthy
mediaeval periods can be seen lying among the churches in the surrounding area.
small white cube-shaped houses. In summertime, • To Agios Konstantinos church (17th century)
the narrow streets of the traditional old town get located inside the Castle, built in a remarkable
filled with people enjoying the variety of popular architectural style, one of the most beautiful in
shops, tavernas and restaurants. Cyclades.
120. Panagia Ekatontapyliani’s church.
121. Delio is located on a hill overlooking Paroikia Bay.
122. Local silver two-drachma coin (250-230 BC) with the inscription ΚΤΗΣ ΠΑΡΙ [KTIS PARI] (Numismatic Museum, Athens).
• In traditional downtown Paroikia (Lochagou tou Stavrou, Agia Aikaterini, Evangelismos
PAROS
Fokianou St. and Lochagou Gravari St.) where (Annunciation) and Agia Anna (on the southern
you will find many shops, cafés and restaurants side of the road running along the coast).
with a particularly interesting island-style and • To the building of the Elementary school (1901).
neoclassical architecture.
• To the following archaeological sites: the
• To the coastal area, lined with cafés, bars and
restaurants, stretching from the windmill at the 95
ruins of the archaic temple of Athena (525 entrance of the harbour up to the small church

BC) in the Castle (Kastro), the burial grounds of Agia Anna.
of the ancient town (close to the harbour), the • To the residence of Manto Mavrogenous
ceramics and sculpture workshops of the (where there is a bust of the female revolutionary
Hellenistic period as well as the remains of a of the 1821 Greek Independence War).
Roman building (behind the Archaeological • To Dimotiki Vivliothiki (Municipal Library),
Museum), the Eastern Gate of the Ancient housed in a marvellous neoclassic building located
Wall, the 4th century BC Iero tou Asklipiou in the centre of the historic old town.
(sanctuary of god Asklipios) up • To the three 18th century marble
on the hill towards Alyki and its fountains constructed by Nikolaos
contemporary Iero tou Pythiou Mavrogenis the sovereign of
Apollona (sanctuary of god Moldovlachia [another name for
Pythios Apollo), close to the the principalities of Moldavia
sanctuary of Asklipios, Delion and Wallachia that existed until
(NE of the town) where the 1850s]. These fountains
Apollo, Leto and Artemis were were celebrated much later
worshipped, and where the by poet Odysseas Elytis in his
remains of the 6th century BC “Axion Esti”.
sanctuary are lying, as well as the • To the 525 Early Christian
arched building of the late antiquity Basilica (1 km SE towards Naousa)
period, in the area of Krios. on the ruins of which three other 17th
• To the Archaeological Museum, where century churches were built.
exhibits from the Prehistoric up to the Roman • To the 1660 Agioi Anargyroi monastery on
times are on display, including part of «Parion the town’s highest location offering a splendid
Chronikon”, meaning “Paros Chronicle” i.e. a view of the surrounding area, to Taxiarches
chronological table with references to major (Archangels) monastery 3.5 km NE, to
events and personalities of the antiquity. Longovarda monastery 4.5 km NE, and finally
• To the churches of Agia Marina, Panagia to Christos tou Dasous (meaning Christ of the
123. Paros Archaeological Museum – view of the yard area.

• To Petaloudes (Butterflies), 6 km S, in the
location Psychopiana, where butterflies of the
species Panaxia Quadripundactaria appear during
the summer months.

Pounta 2
This is a coastal village, lying on lowland with
cultivated fields. It is the windsurfers’ and
kitesurfers’ favourite spot. The village offers a
beautiful view towards the island of Antiparos
and a ferry service to it. Distance from
124. Hike to the lighthouse in Korakas area, Paroikia: 8 km SW.
near Naousa, across the lovely countryside.
forest) monastery 5 km S. Naousa 3

• To cape Agios Fokas (opposite the town) It is Paros’ most picturesque village and one of
with a spectacular view of the open sea and the
the most popular destinations, with colourful
neighbouring islands.
fishing boats, traditional white houses and
• To the marble quarries at Marathi, 5.5 km
narrow streets lined with cafeterias, fish-
E of Paroikia, open from the 3rd millennium BC
until the 19th century. This was where extraction restaurants, bars and clubs. Distance from
of the renowned local (Parian) marble took place. Paroikia: 10.5 km NE.
The mining galleries along with remnants of 19th
century industrial buildings still exist (difficult to Must see:
access yet visitable). Additionally, at the entrance
• The Venetian castle, at the small harbour’s
of the second gallery, you can find a carved stone
entrance, a central meeting place for residents
relief dedicated to the Nymphs; a section of it is
and visitors.
kept at the nearby Agios Minas monastery.
125. Panoramic view of Lefkes village.

Must see:
PAROS
• The 1830 Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) church
with its impressive marble bell tower.
• The Aegean Folk Culture Museum
and the Folk Art Museum.
97
• The Heroes & Fighters Memorial,

at the central square.
• The pottery and weaving workshops.
• The House of Literature, located in the old
XENIA hotel.
• The centuries-old olive trees, at Apati
location.
• The windmills, on the top of the
neighbouring hill.
• The Byzantine path (3 km long), dating
back to the 10th century offering an enjoyable
126. The 15th c. Venetian castle hiking route amid olive groves and myrtles.
at the entrance of Naousa’s small harbour.
It connects Lefkes with Prodromos.
• The churches of Agios Athanasios • The 17th century Agios Ioannis Kaparos’
(17th century), Koimisi tis Theotokou monastery, located 2.5 km SW.
(Dormition of the Mother of God), Agios • The village Kostos (5 km N). It is worth
Nikolaos and Agios Georgios (17th century). stopping by its extremely picturesque central
• The district of Agios Dimitrios, and the square where you can visit the 17th century
houses built by the water. church dedicated to Agios Panteleimonas
• The old windmills. and admire its remarkable iconostasis.
• The 1648 Agios Andreas’ monastery. You will also find cafés and tavernas there.
• Othon Kaparis’ History and Folk Art
Museum: exhibits cover the period from 127. The famous beach in Kolympithres
set in a particularly beautiful rocky area.
antiquity until modern times (situated
at the central square).
• The Folk Art Collection titled “Greek Local
Costumes”.
• The Collection of Byzantine and Post
Byzantine Art with 17th-18th century icons
and crosses.
• The Mycenaean Acropolis, in Kolympithres
area (Koukounaries location).
• Ampelas area (4 km SE), with holiday
cottages, popular fish-restaurants and
beautiful beaches.
Lefkes 4
Lefkes is a particularly picturesque mountain
village, surrounded by lush vegetation. The local
neoclassical architecture features beautiful squares
and narrow streets paved with marble. It is built on
the highest location of Paros, offering a fabulous
view of the island and the sea. Distance from
Paroikia: 11 km SE.
Agkairia - Alyki 5 Modestos and Metamorfosi tou Sotiros
(Transfiguration of Christ).
These are two beautiful neighbouring villages.
• The Ecclesiastical Museum located inside
Agkairia is built in a verdant area and Alyki is a
Metamorfosi tou Sotiros church,
coastal village very popular with tourists. The
with 15th - 16th century icons on display.
Scorpios Cycladic Folk Art Museum is open
• Nikolaos Perantinos Sculpture
in Alyki, founded by folk artist B. Skiadas. The
Museum situated in the old school building.
beaches of Farangas and Trypiti, and in the area of
Aspro Chorio the beaches of Lolantonis and Glyfa • The Folk Art Museum exhibiting
are worth your visit. Distance from Paroikia: a 19th century traditional Paros house.
12.5 and 13 km respectively to the South. • Kefalos Hill where you will see the ruins
of a 15th century Venetian castle.
Prodromos 6 The 16th century Agios Antonios Monastery
is located on the hilltop.
It was named after the 17 century church
th
• Marmara, a neighbouring village (founded
of Agios Ioannis Prodromos [St. John the
Forerunner]. The architecture in this small in the 15th-16th century), with a particular
beautiful village is an interesting one with architectural style and remarkable churches,
well tended traditional houses. Entrance to such as the 17th century Koimisi tis Theotokou,
Prodromos is through an arch connecting the the 1606 Agios Savas and others.
churches of Agios Spyridonas and Agios Nikolaos. • The 1609 small church of Xechoriani,
Distance from Paroikia: 14 km SE. on the way to Piso Livadi.
• Agios Georgios Lagkadas’ monastery,
Marpissa 7 located 5 km SW. It was founded in 1400
Marpissa is a lovely traditional village, with and was renovated in 1664.
mediaeval structure, founded in the 15th century.
It is located on a hill, a few kilometres away from
the popular beaches of Logara and Piso Livadi and
close to the important historical monuments on
Kefalos hill. Distance from Paroikia: 17 km SE.
Must see:
• The old windmills, the village’s landmark.
• The churches of Evangelismos
(1410), Panagia Anapliotissa, Agios
128. Agios Antonios’ Monastery on Kefalos hill.

PAROS
99

130. Piso Livadi, one of the most picturesque villages on the island.
Piso Livadi 8 beach, and the popular-among-the-young-

Pounda beach are both close to the village. From
Piso Livadi is one of Paros’ most beautiful villages,
Agios Nikolaos’ church, enjoy a marvellous view
ideal for a quiet and calm vacation with a lovely
of Naxos Island. Also visit the late 13th century
sandy beach, restaurants, cafés and relatively
byzantine church of Agios Georgios Thalassitis on
quiet, so to speak, clubs. Logaras is a Blue Flag
the hill above Logaras. Distance from Paroikia:
129. An aerial photo of Marpissa and Kefalos hill. 18 km SE.
The west shores of Naxos are discernible in the back.
Dryos 9
This is a village with a small harbour, where fishing
boats and other small craft can be moored. There
are traditional restaurants, cafés and bars by the
village’s beach. The ancient neosoikoi (ancient
ship sheds where locals used to keep their
boats) are definitely to be visited as well as the
country chapel of Agios Nikolaos. Distance from
Paroikia: 22 km SE.
Events
• Cultural events take place in the island’s villages,
organised by the Municipality, from June until
October.
• Cultural events in Paroikia during the summer
months.
• Panagia Ekatontapyliani’s Feast on August 15th.
• Agioi Anargyroi Feast on July 1st.
• Klidonas Fair, on June 23rd.
• Agios Ioannis Theologos’ Feast, on August 29th.
• Easter celebrations including reenacting Jesus
Christ’s Passion Week in Marpissa and in
Prodromos villages.
• Metamorfosi tou Sotiros’ Feast, on August 6th.
• Celebration of the Fishermen at the port of
Naousa, on July’s first Sunday.
• Cultural events, theatrical performances and
recreation of local customs, in Naousa.
• Painting, photography, sculpture and jewellery
exhibitions in Naousa, during the summer
months.
• Pantanassa’s Feast on February 2nd.
• Celebration of Enniamera Panagias [Leavetaking
of the Dormition of the Mother of God] and re-
enactment of the pirates’ invasion, in Naousa, on
August 23rd.
131. Paros Island has been a member of
the EuroArt network since 2005.
Pyrgaki and further away at Lolantonis in the

White Village (Aspro Chorio). You can also go
for a swim in the area of Naousa, at Piperi,
Mikro Piperi, Fykia and Limnes, Monastiri, Agioi
Anargyroi, Xifara, Lagkeri, Santa Maria and Alyki,
and in the area of Ampelas there is the village’s
beach, Damoulis and Ysterni.
• Sailing.
• Fishing.
• Diving in Santa Maria, Golden Beach (Chrysi
Akti) and Pounta (at Antiparos).
• Wind surfing in Santa Maria, Molos, New Golden
Beach (Tserdakia), Golden Beach and in the area
Activities of Pounta (at Antiparos).

• Kite surfing in the area of Pounta (Kampos),
on the island with kite surfing schools and shops for renting
equipment.
• Swimming at the areas of Livadia, Krotiri, Krios, • Water skiing and wakeboarding at Kolympithres
Martselos, Kaminia, at the beaches of Agios and Monastiri.
Fokas, Delfini, Parasporos and Agia Eirini, in the • Waterslide Park (at Naousa, near Kolympithres).
area of Parikoia; also at the beaches of Alyki, • Tennis.
Farangas, Agios Nikolaos, Platia Ammos, Makria • Basketball.
Myti, Kladia, Voutakos, Piso Alyki, Pigadakia, • Go-cart track near Paroikia.
Trypiti and Glyfa. • Horse riding.
Visit also the beaches of Logaras, at Logaras • Camping at Paroikia (Parkia), Parasporos, Alyki,
village, Pounta and Mesada, the area of Naousa, Santa Maria and at Piso Livadi.
Marmara, Molos, Kalogeros, Glyfades and • Hiking or enjoying a ride on a mountain bicycle,
Tsoukalia, the area of Marpissa and Piso Livadi. a dirt bike, or a 4X4 vehicle, on the routes
In the area of Dryos, you can swim at the village’s mentioned below:
beach, Bountari, the Golden Beach (Chrysi Akti) 1. The Byzantine path in Lefkes, 2. From Agkairia
and the New Golden Beach (Nea Chrysi Akti), towards Agioi Theodoroi monastery either by
PAROS
• Paros Municipal Office: 22843-60.100
• Police station (Paroikia): 22840-21.673
• Police station (Naousa): 22840-51.202
• Rural Health Centre: 22843-60.000 101
• Rural Medical Clinic (Naousa):

22840-51.216
• Port authority (Paroikia): 22840-21.240
• Port authority (Naousa): 22840-51.250
• Airport: 22840-90.900
• Ekatontapyliani Church: 22840-21.243
• History - Folk Art Museum (Naousa):
22840-53.453
• Aegean Folk Culture Museum (hotel
Lefkes Village, Lefkes): 22840-41.827
• Lefkes Folk Art Museum:
132. Paros ranks high on the list 22840-42.414, 22840-41.617 (in Lefkes
of Greek wind surfing destinations.
Community Hall)
crossing the mountain or by walking towards • Marpissa Ecclesiastical Museum:
the coastal village of Alyki (for the more daring 22840-41.831
hikers, one can reach as far as Lefkes or even as • N. Perantinos Sculpture Museum
far as the telecommunication aerials), 3. From (Marpissa): 22840-41.217 (in Marpissa
Marpissa towards Lefkes (via the road that Community Hall)
passes by the monastery of Agios Georgios) or • Marpissa Folk Art Museum:
towards Kefalos hilltop (45 min. approximately) 22840-41.217 (in Marpissa Community Hall)
4. From Petaloudes (Psychopiana) towards the
Website: www.paros.gr
Monastery of Christos tou Dasous.
133. Cosmopolitan Farangas beach in the southwest side of the island.

134. Panoramic view of the picturesque harbour of Naousa
where you’ll find many restaurants, coffee shops and bars;
this place is reputed to be the heart of the island’s nightlife.
CENTRAL AND EASTERN CYCLADES PAROS
103
Antiparos
135. Chora of Antiparos Island, aerial photo.
A
ntiparos islet is ideal for peaceful and quiet holidays and is located next to Paros. It has an
area of 38 sq. km, a coastline of 37.5 km and a population of 1,030 people. In ancient times
vegetation thrived on the island, however, an unknown catastrophe has completely altered its
topography, resulting in today’s mostly barren land. The ancient name of Antiparos was Oliaros. A very
important Neolithic settlement has been unearthed - the most ancient in Cyclades- at the neighbouring
islet of Saliagkos.
It is situated 1 nautical mile from Pounta village and 4.5 nautical miles from Paroikia in Paros. There is a
ferry connection with said villages.
ANTIPAROS
105

136. The foot of the tower at the centre of the Venetian castle.
Chora 1 located at its entrance. The country chapel

of Ai Giannis is just outside the cave.
It is built around the Venetian castle. Stone-pitched
• The villages Soros (9 km S) and Agios
streets, whitewashed alleys, houses surrounded by
Georgios (12 km SW).
flower beds and the big central square with a large
• Despotiko and the nearby islands. West of
eucalyptus tree create a typical island-style picture.
Antiparos there are three small uninhabited
islands, with very interesting archaeological
Must see: sites; Despotiko, Tsimintiri (between
Antiparos and Despotiko) and Strongylo
• The little harbour (Skala or Molos) and
the village’s main street with many cafés, 137. The cave of Antiparos.
restaurants, bars and shops.
• The Cultural Centre / Library, the
National Resistance Fighters Memorial
and Evangelistria church with noteworthy
17th century icons.
• The Venetian castle (1440), hidden in
Chora’s traditional village. The castle had been
built around a courtyard in the centre of which
there was a three-storeyed tower whose base
is the only part remaining today. The houses’
exterior walls are also the walls of the castle. The
one and only gate of the castle is located next to
the Metropolitan Church of Agios Nikolaos.
• The cave (8 km S.), featuring some
marvellous stalagmites and stalactites.
According to an ancient inscription, one of the
cave’s first visitors was Archilochos from Paros,
a great lyric poet of antiquity; additionally, in
various parts of the cave, there are inscriptions
by visitors at a later time. The cave is 90 m.
deep, 50 m. wide and 40 m. high with three
chambers. The oldest stalagmite in Europe is
138. Soros beach is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches and a tourist hotspot.
ANTIPAROS
(west of Despotiko). According to ancient Ioannis, Sifneikos Gyalos, Stavros, Psaralykes,
historians Strabo and Pliny the Elder, Despotiko Glyfa, Plaka, Apantima, Kalargyros, Soros, Agios
has been identified as the ancient Prepesinthos Sostis, Faneromeni, Livadi, Agios Georgios,
Island, known since the Cycladic Culture Agios Spyridonas, Epitafios and Monastiria.
Age and throughout the Aegean’s history.
Important ancient items have been found on
• Boat excursion at Panteronisia, at the beautiful
beaches of Despotiko islet and in the Sea Caves.
107
this location. You can visit Despotiko by taking • Diving.

the small excursion boat which leaves from • Spear Fishing.
Agios Georgios, or choose to go on a boat trip • Hiking from Chora up to the Cave (1.5 hours)
to the southwestern coast of the island. or from Agios Georgios towards the cave (2.5
hours).
Events • 5x5 Mini Soccer.
• Tour of the island, by excursion boats, leaving
• Ai-Giannis Spiliotis’ Feast, at the cave’s entrance,
from Chora’s harbour.
involving traditional dancing and a lot of treats
• Camping at the location Agios Ioannis Theologos
on May 7th.
(N. of Chora).
• Ai-Giannis’ Feast, at Antiparos’ harbour, on June
23rd and 24th.
• Agia Marina’s three-day feast takes place on Useful phone numbers (+30)
Antiparos’ harbour, with sports games, dancing, • Municipal office: 22840-61.570
singing and treats for all, in mid July. • Police station: 22840-61.202
• Feast by the small Panagia Faneromeni church • General Regional Medical Clinic:
on September 7th. Local fishing boats will take 22840-61.219
visitors there. • Port authority: 22840-61.485
Activities • Post Office: 22840-61.223

• Camping site: 22840-61.221
on the island Website: www.antiparos.gr
• Swimming at the beaches of Kaloudia, Agios
139. Antiparos (left) and Despotiko (right). Tsimintiri islet is in between.

Naxos
140. View of Chora; the castle stands out.
N
axos is the largest and most fertile island of the Cyclades group. It is endowed with an
extraordinary landscape, high mountains (mount Zas’ top, reaching 1,004 m., is the highest
mountain in Cyclades) and mountainous villages with a singular character. It has an area of 428
sq. km, a coastline of 148 km and a population of 18,000.
In antiquity, the god Dionysus was worshipped on the island. According to mythology, Dionysus met a
Minoan lady, Ariadne, who had been abandoned by Theseus in Naxos. From the ancient times to the
present day the island has been producing citrus fruits of excellent quality, wine that is renowned for its
quality and very tasty cheese varieties.
The Carians were the first residents of Naxos, followed by the Cretans and the Ionians. Naxos was already
famous in the ancient times for its wine and well known as a worship place of the ancient god Dionysus.
During the 6th century BC, Naxos experienced a trading, financial and cultural boom and had been a
member of the two Athenian (or Delian) Leagues. During the Venetian occupation, Marco Sanudo founded
the Duchy of Naxos (1207). The Venetians remained on the island until 1566. In 1579 it became attached
to the Ottoman Empire and from 1830 it is part of the Greek state.
141. A rare early-cycladic period male figurine (Naxos Archaeological Museum).
Naxos Town (Chora) 1
NAXOS
It is the capital town of the island with
characteristic Cycladic culture elements and
numerous monuments dating to various
historical periods. The heart of the town is 109
beating in Old Chora, the old castle town with

cobblestone-laid alleys (kalderimia) and the
Venetian castle. The houses with Venetian
blazons ornamenting their entrances, the narrow
arcaded alleys (called “stegadia”), the catholic
churches and the fortifications create a unique
blend of Cycladic and Mediaeval architecture.
Promenade in Chora
• To the 6th century BC Portara, a remaining part
of the ancient temple of Apollo. This prominent
landmark is located at the harbour’s entrance and
it is the most famous among the island sights.
• To the castle, an impressive monument that is a
reminder of the long-lasting Venetian domination
of Naxos (1204-1537).
• To the building of the Ursulines school, located
at the castle’s highest level.
• To the Archaeological Museum, housed in a
historical building of the Venetian period, displaying
finds dating back to the Late Neolithic Age up to the • The 6th century BC Dionysus Sanctuary,
Early Christian Period. the god’s prominent sanctuary in ancient Naxos
• To the Grotta archaeological site, towards Island. You will find it in the location “Yria” (close
the northern side of Chora, where ruins of Naxos’ to Glinado village), 10 km SE of Chora, where an
Mycenaean capital lie (1300 BC). interesting archaeological collection is on display.
• To Panagia Vlacherniotissa’s church, with the
remarkable wood carved iconostasis, and Panagia
Myrtidiotissa’s small church, next to the harbour. Trips around the island
• To Zoodochos Pigi’s church (meaning Life
Giving Fountain), (Chora’s metropolitan Agios Prokopios 2
church). It is a favourite destination among
• To Agios Ioannis holidaymakers and one of Naxos’
Chrysostomos’ Monastery. cosmopolitan spots. Enjoy
• To the Town Hall building, the lovely sandy beach of
housing the Municipal Library, crystalline seawaters and
the Municipal Theatre, visit Agios Prokopios’ small
the Municipal Philarmonic
church.
Orchestra and the Library
Distance from Chora:
of Academic Books.
5.5 km SW.
• The Belonia Tower (6km SE),
once the residence of the Venetian 142. Local silver stater (coin)
(6th c. – 490 BC)
sovereign, with the “twin” church of depicting a kantharos
Agios Ioannis (both orthodox and catholic). (chalice-like vessel) [Numismatic Museum, Athens].
143. Portara. Naxos’ Chora lies in the background.
CENTRAL AND EASTERN CYCLADES NAXOS
111
Agia Anna 3
This is one of Naxos’ most popular resort areas,
located on the western side of the island, south
of Chora. The sands there are among the top
beaches on Naxos. Distance from Chora: 6.5
km SW.
Galini 4
Galini village was built in a fertile valley and has
been known for the Monastery-Tower of
Ypsilotera (1600) built in a unique architectural
style. Engares village is situated close by (1 km
E), amidst a wooded area with many springs.
Distance from Chora: 7 km NE.
NAXOS
113

144. An uncommon species of cedar grows in Agia Anna’s 7 km-long beach.
Melanes 5 Sagkri 7
This is yet another beautiful village nestled in a This village is built in a fertile area and there are
verdant area with numerous streams. Make a point of three neighbourhoods: Ano Sagkri, Kato Sagkri and
visiting the colossal 6th century BC statue of Kouros Kanakari. Visit the Venetian towers, the traditional
of Melanon, the 17th century Anaktoro Isouiton windmills and a number of noteworthy Byzantine
(Palace of the Jesuits), as well as the Venetian churches. From Sagkri follow the route towards
towers of the sovereigns Marco Sanudo, Mavrogenis Agiassos beach (10 km S). Distance from Chora:
and Fragkopoulos. Distance from Chora: 7.5 km E. 11 km SE.
Must see:
Plaka 6
Plaka village is located on the western side of • The Byzantine churches of Agios Nikolaos
Naxos, south of Chora, and is built in a picturesque (10th-13th century) with interesting religious
cove with a beautiful beach. The ruins of the paintings and Kalotaritissa (11th-13th century)
ancient tower in Palaiopyrgos, near the beach of inside a cave on Profitis Ilias hill.
Agios Matthaios, are definitely a site worth visiting. • The 17th century Bazaios and Sommaripa
Distance from Chora: 9.5 km S. towers.
145. Mikri Vigla is a favourite windsurf destination in the summer.

with cobblestone, surrounded by lush vegetation.
Agiassos wetland – a habitat for many species of
flora and fauna- is located nearby. Distance from
Chora: 18 km SE.
Must see:
• Panagia Filotissa church and its impressive
belfry.
• The ancient tower of Cheimarros,
dating to the Hellenistic period (4th century BC).
• The impressive and fortified 17th century
Barotsi - Gratsia tower as well as
Markopolitis Tower, both located in the area of
Chalki (3 km NW).
146. Apeiranthos Archaeological Museum.
• The church of Panagia Protothroni
• The 6th century BC Demeter and Apollo (9th - 10th century) located 2 km off Chalki village.
sanctuary (on Gyroula hillock), constructed It is Naxos’ largest Byzantine church featuring
solely of white marble. The worshipping impressive murals. There are also other
practice was related to the Eleusinian Mysteries remarkable churches within that area (Tragaia),
and the archaeological finds are kept in dating to the 6th - 11th centuries.
a museum built in the archaeological site. • Mount Za’s cave located at an elevation
• Apalyro castle, perched on a steep rock of 600 m. that used to be dedicated to Milosios
at Sagkri. Zeus. The small church of Zoodochos Pigi
is situated on the left of the cave’s entrance.
Filoti 8 • Fotodotis Christos’ monastery (meaning

Light bearing Christ), located approximately
Filoti is a picturesque mountainous village built
6 km E., in Danakos village; it was built during
on Za’s mountainside, at a 400 m. elevation with
the early Christian times.
cube-shaped little houses and narrow alleys paved
147. Panoramic view of Filoti village.

NAXOS
115

148. The temple of Demeter in Sagkri.
Apeiranthos • The Byzantine churches of Agios Ioannis

(Aperathos) 9 Theologos and Agia Kyriaki.
• Panagia Drosiani’s church and its
This is an impressive mountainous large village 7th century murals, dating to the Early
in the centre of Naxos, one of the island’s most Christian Period, at a 5.5 km distance.
picturesque areas, with houses built of stone, • The old emery mines and the equipment
beautiful squares and narrow alleys paved with for mineral transportation in Koronos village,
marble. Locals keep to their customs as well as located 8.5 km N.
their dialect. According to tradition, Apeiranthos
was founded by the Cretans. The village boasts a 149. Tradition remains untouched in Apeiranthos.
long intellectual and artistic tradition. Distance
from Chora: 26 km E.
Must see:
• The four museums of Apeiranthos namely
the Archaeological, Geological, Folk Art
and Natural History Museum.
• The churches of Panagia Aperathitissa,
Agia Paraskevi, at the village’s highest
location, and Agios Antonios.
• Mnimeio ton Pesonton (Fighters’ Memorial).
• The 17th century tower of Zevgolis.
• The building of the Cultural
Organisation of Apeiranthos, where
photography exhibitions are held.
• The windmills.
• Panagia Fanariotissa’s country chapel
and Agios Pachomios’ church.
150. Naxos is famed for its top quality farming produce.
Apollonas 10 Events
Apollonas is a coastal village, on the northeastern
• Dionysia: a 20-day festivity period organised by
side of Naxos. Along the harbour there are fish
the Municipality in the town of Naxos, including
restaurants offering a lovely view. Close to the
artistic and cultural events as well as sports games,
village, at the entrance of an ancient quarry,
during July’s second fortnight.
you will see an unfinished Kouros [statue of
• Apolloneia: cultural events during the summer
a youth] lying on the ground, never eventually
months.
having been raised from it. The statue is
• Carnival customs in Apeiranthos, Kaloxido,
10.45 m. long, depicting either Dionysus or
Potamia, Livadia and other villages.
Apollo and dating back to the early 6th century
• Agios Prokopios’ Feast, on July 8th.
BC. The Tower of Agia, situated 7.5 km towards
• Agios Nikodimos’ Feast -the biggest on the island-
the west, offering a view of the north part of the
on July 14th.
island, is a sight not to be missed. Distance
• Agia Marina’s Feast, at Koronos village, on July 17th.
from Chora: 35.5 km NE.
• Agia Anna’s Feast, on July 25th.
151. The beach in Agios Prokopios. • Feasts of Panagia Aperathitissa, on August 15th,
and of Agios Ioannis on August 29th, at Apeiranthos.
• Three-day Feast of Panagia, in Filoti, on August 15th.
• Feast of Ai Giannis, in Apollonas, on August 29th.
• Wine Festival, in late August - early September.
• Cultural events in Bazaios tower, in Sagkri – a part
of Naxos Festival- during the summer months.

• Swimming in Agios Georgios, at the beaches
of Agia Anna, Maragka, in Agiassos and in Roou
bay, at Agios Prokopios beach, in Moutsouna, at
Apollonas beach, in Amiti, at Kalantou beach,
in Pachia Ammos, Chilia Vrysi, Mikra, Kampos,
Abram, Agioi Theodoroi, Itona, Kastraki, Glyfada,
Liona, in Mikri Vigla, Orkos, Azala, Ligaridia, Psili
NAXOS
Ammos, Kleido and in Panormos.
• Wind surfing.
• Kite surfing in Mikri Vigla.
• Football.
• Volleyball.
117
• Canoeing.

• Water skiing.
• Horse riding.
• Cycling.
• Hiking from the church of Agia Marina (near
Danakos village) towards the top of Mount Zas,
where you will be rewarded by a breathtaking
view. A branch of the main trail leads to the
northwestern mountainside, where Zas’ cave is
located. Try also the route from Apeiranthos to
Moutsouna through the emery mines (12 km),
from Ano Potamia towards Kato Potamia (2 km)
and from Engares towards Kinidaro (6 km).
• Diving.
• Fishing.
• Camping in Chora (Agios Georgios), Agia Anna
152. Mountain biking in Naxos’ highland.
(Maragkas) and in Plaka.
• Airport: 22850-23.292
Useful phone numbers (+30) • Long Distance Bus Terminus (KTEL):
• Naxos & Minor Cyclades Municipal 22850-22.291
Office: 22853-60.100
• Yria Archaeological Collection:
22850-42.325
• Rural Health Centre: 22853-60500
• Port authority: 22850-22.300 Website: www.naxos.gr
153. Gigantic-size half-finished Kouros of Apollo.

154. Naxos’ Chora photographed from the sea.
CENTRAL AND EASTERN CYCLADES NAXOS
119
Donousa
155. The True Cross’ church in Donousa.
Τ
his is the northernmost island of the Small Eastern Cyclades group of islands. It is located east
of Naxos and north of Amorgos. The island’s area is 13.5 sq. km and there are many bays with
gorgeous sandy beaches nestled among them. This is the place to be if you’re looking for a quiet
holiday. According to mythology, Dionysus hid Ariadne in Donousa, so that Theseus would not find
her. A settlement dating to the geometric period as well as remains of Bronze Age dwellings have been
excavated on the island. There are 140 inhabitants in four beautiful villages: Donousa or Stavros (the
biggest village being also the island’s port), Mersini, Charavgi (or Mesaria) and Kalotaritissa.
156. The harbour.
DONOUSA
Donousa village 1
It is a picturesque village built according to the
typical Cycladic architectural style, and located
on the south-western tip of the island, in a bay
sheltered from the wind. 121

Must see:
• The churches of: a) Timios Stavros
(Holy Cross), being the island’s patron saint,
b) Panagia and c) Agios Ioannis (1892).
The sunset views from all three locations
are amazing.
• The ruins of a settlement dating back
to the Geometric Period and a cemetery,
located on a hillock at Vathy Limenari bay.
• Spilia tou Toichou (Cave of the Wall)
with stalactites, situated on the northwestern
part of the island (access by excursion boat).
• Fokospilia, on the island’s east coast.
Events
• Panagia’s Feast on August 15th.
• Stavros’ (Holy Cross) Feast on September 14th.
• Agia Sofia’s Feast, on September 17th.
157. Donousa village and beach.

15Donousa120a_new-ENG_new_NOV14.indd 1 06/11/2014 3:35 μ.μ.
• Swimming at Ammoudi, Limni, at the sandy

beach close to the harbour, at Kedros, Vathy
Limenari, Livadi, Fykio, Vatos, Kalotaritissa
(Sapounochoma and Mesa Ammos), Trypiti and
Skoulonisi.
• Spear fishing.
• Diving.
• Hiking, setting off at Donousa (Stavros) towards
Kalotaritissa and off Kedros towards Charavgi
(Mesaria).
• Community office: 22850-51.600

Website: www.donoussa.gr
158. You will find lacy beaches with deep blue waters in the area of Kalotaritissa.
DONOUSA
123

159. Fokospilia: an impressive marine cave where seals used to nest.
Irakleia
160. Agios Georgios, the harbour of Irakleia.
I
rakleia is a small island in the group of the Minor Eastern Cyclades, with just 115 residents. It is
located between Ios and Naxos at the group’s westernmost tip. Its area is 18 sq. km with a fair
amount of vegetation, many springs, smooth hills, scenic bays and old trails. It is the ideal choice for
a peaceful vacation. There are populations of Monachus monachus, a mediterranean seal species and
caretta-caretta sea turtle on the island’s coasts. You will find two villages on the island: Agios Georgios
(the island’s port) and Panagia.
IRAKLEIA
125

161. The beach in front of Agios Georgios village.
Agios Georgios 1 of Agios Nektarios and Profitis Ilias,

This picturesque port was named after the church at Papas, the island’s highest hill.
of Agios Georgios. The houses, overlooking the • Agios Ioannis’ cave, with impressive
sea, blend with the natural scenery. stalactites and stalagmites.
In order to visit the cave, you must hire
the services of a local guide.
Must see: • Ftero, an imposing vertical rock
• Agios Georgios’ church (1834). (200 m. high), in the region of Merichas.
• The 19th century church of Taxiarchis
and its outstanding iconostasis. 162. Church dedicated to the Entry of the Virgin Mary
in the Temple, Panagia village.
• The fortress, above Livadi beach, with a
fine view of the surrounding area.
• Agios Athanasios, an old village
with a few traditional stone-built houses.

Panagia 2
It is a beautiful village with its Cycladic architectural
style well preserved; it has stone-built houses
and cobblestone-laid alleys. Distance from Agios
Georgios: 4 km SW.
Must see:
• Panagia’s church, dedicated to Eisodia
tis Theotokou (Entry of Virgin Mary
in the Temple), next to the small churches
163. Alimia beach accessible by small craft from Agios Georgios.
16Heraklia100a_new-ENG_new_NOV14.indd 1 06/11/2014 3:35 μ.μ.

IRAKLEIA
Events
• Agios Georgios’ Feast.
• Panagia’s Feast, on August 15th, at Panagia
village, with food and wine on offer.
• Vespers (a religious service) performed in Agios
127
Ioannis’ cave on August 28th.

• Swimming at the beaches of Agios Georgios, Vorini
Spilia, Kolpos Livadiou, at the Tourkopigado
pebbly beaches, at Ammoudi in Merichas, at
Karvounolakkos and at Merichas bay. Try also the
low rocky shores in Xylompati and Trimpouna and
the steep rocks and rugged beaches in Merichas,
Vala, Strongylos, Kavos tou Thodorou and
Kathreftis.
• Fishing.
• Diving.
• Hiking from Panagia towards Profitis Ilias’ country
chapel (a 25 min. route), to Agios Georgios (a 50
min. route) and towards Agios Ioannis’ cave (a
90 min. route). 164. View of Merichas bay.
• Bird watching.
• Police station (in Koufonisia islands):
• Touring off the island’s coastline by boat.
22850-71.375
Useful phone numbers (+30): • Naxos Port Authority: 22850-22.300
• Irakleia Community office: 22850-71.545 Website: www.iraklia.gr
165. Ruins of a Hellenistic Period fortress overlooking Livadi.

Schoinousa
166. An aerial photo of Chora (also Schoinousa or Panagia) and its distinctive cube-shaped houses.
S
choinousa is located roughly at the centre of the Minor Eastern Cyclades group of islands,
south of Naxos and northeast of Irakleia. It is a small island, with an area of 9 sq. km and a
population of 200. There are three villages: Chora, Mesaria and Mersini. It has been inhabited
since antiquity and has been named after the bushy plant lentisk (Schoino in Greek) which thrives on
the island. Mersini, the island’s harbour is considered one of the best shelters for small boats in the
entire Aegean.
SCHOINOUSA
129

167. The cove in Mersini.
Chora 1 Mersini 3
It is situated at the very centre of the island and This is a small harbour where small craft, fishing
is very picturesque with snow white houses and boats and yachts can be moored. Distance
narrow alleys. Chora is built on a low hill with a from Chora: 1.5 km W.
lovely view of the surrounding area.
168. Relaxing by Liolios beach.
Must see:
• Panagia tis Akathis’ church and the icon
of Panagia tou Akathistou Ymnou
(Virgin Mary of the Akathist Hymn).
• The Folk Art Museum, displaying rural
tools and old household utensils.

Mesaria 2
It is a small rural village, where you can visit
the church of Evangelismos tis Theotokou
(Annunciation of Virgin Mary) and Gero-
Limiona, a picturesque cove of turquoise waters.
Distance from Chora: 1.5 km N.
169. The beach at the inner end of Vazaios cove.
Events
• Panagia tis Akathis’ Feast, on the last Friday of the
Salutations to the Virgin Mary and Panagia’s Feast
on August 15th.
• Agios Nikolaos’ Feast, on December 6th.
• Evangelismos (Annunciation) Feast, on March 25th.
Activities
around the island
• Swimming at Tsigkouri, Livadi, Alygaria, Gagavi,
170. Tsigkouri, a popular beach next to Plaka islet. Ancient remains of a village
and of an Early Christian basilica have been located in the cape area,
the former dating to the Hellenistic and Roman times.
SCHOINOUSA
131

171. Livadi, the seashore.
Kampos, Fontana, Almyros, and at Vazaiou and

Lioliou beaches, at Mersini, Sifneiko, Fykio, Psili
• Community office: 22850-71.170, 74.250
Ammos and Gero- Limiona.
• Police Station (in Koufonisia islands):
• Fishing. 22850-71.375
• Hiking. • Rural Medical Clinic: 22850- 71.385
• Sailing. Website: www.schinousa.gr
Koufonisia
172. Panoramic view of the village in Pano Koufonisi, the harbour and a sandy beach.
K
oufonisia islands are a group of two small islands, Pano Koufonisi (Upper Koufonisi) and Kato
Koufonisi (Lower Koufonisi), which are separated by a narrow strait, 200 m. wide. They are located
southeast of Naxos and west of Amorgos. Their name originated from the shape of the huge caves
on the island, which the pirates saw from a distance, and believed that the islands (in Greek “nisia”) were
hollow (in Greek “koufio” – therefore Koufionisia and later Koufonisia). Next to Koufonisia lies the deserted
Keros island, a protected archaeological site, where important discoveries were made of artefacts dating
to the Cycladic Culture Period (such as the figurine of Big Mother, 1.40 m. high, and the famous statuettes
– representative of the Cycladic Culture - namely “the Flute player” and “the Harp player”, exhibited in
the National Archaeological Museum of Athens). Pano Koufonisi holds an adequate infrastructure and it
is the only populated island. Its area is 5.5 sq. km and there are 366 residents. Koufonisia islands are the
place to be for those who seek peaceful holidays, relaxed atmosphere, fresh fish and beautiful beaches.
KOUFONISIA
133

173. Carefree times by the sea in Koufonisia.
Pano Koufonisi 1 on the island’s north side.

• Glaronisi, its sea caves and lovely green
This is the only village on the island, built in
waters.
the southwestern side just above the harbour,
featuring snow-white houses and picturesque
narrow alleys. The island’s main street begins east Kato Koufonisi 2
of the harbour, and leads to the beach of Pori. Kato Koufonisi is almost deserted and can
be visited by boat from Pano Koufonisi. The
Must see:
island has beautiful sandy beaches and scenic
• Agios Georgios’ and Agios Nikolaos’ landscapes. Panagia’s church is built on ancient
churches. ruins.
• The renovated windmill.
• Pori, an exotic beach on the eastern side
of the island.
Events
• Panagia’s Feast on August 15th in Kato Koufonisi
• The sea caves, in Pano Koufonisi,
where a speed boat competition also takes place.
174. A lovely beach – one of many in Koufonisia.
175. Turquoise waters in Italida.
KOUFONISIA
• The Fisherman’s Festival (Giorti tou Psara), with • Sailing around Koufonisia islands, towards Keros
local fish soup (kakavia) offered, on June 24 .
th and the islets Prasoura, Glaronisi, Voulgari,
• Agios Georgios’ Feast, on April 23rd. Tsouloufi, Lazaros and Megali Plaka.
• Football.
Activities in Koufonisia • Basketball.

• Volleyball.
135

• Swimming in Pano Koufonisi, at Loutro, Parianos, • Cycling. Rent a bike on the island and follow the
Charokopos (Foinikas), Fanos, Platia Pounta most popular route: the one along the coastline -
(Italida) and Pori, in Kato Koufonisi, at Panagia, it will take you approximately one hour.
Deti and Nero. Also, go for swimming in the • Wind surfing.
neighbouring islets of Prasoura, Glaronisi,
Voulgari, Tsouloufi, Lazaros and Megali Plaka, Useful phone numbers (+30)
all of which have been declared areas of
• Community office: 22850-71.379
outstanding natural beauty.
• Hiking from Chora (Pano Koufonisi) towards
Xylopatis and towards Apano Meria.
• Fishing. Website: www.koufonisia.gr
• Diving.
176. Pori, a beach of extraordinary beauty (aerial photo).

Amorgos
177. Panagia Hozoviotissa’s Monastery, the most famous monument in Amorgos.

It is built on a commanding landscape at 300 m. above the sea, a flight of 300 stairs leading up to it.
T
his is the island of “The Big Blue”, a Luc Besson film which was mostly shot in Amorgos. It is
located at the easternmost edge of the Cyclades and boasts a singular character. The mountainous
landscape with impressive steep mountainsides and cultivation terraces with moderate yields, the
steep rocks by the coast in the southern part and the scenic bays with beautiful seashores in the northern
part of the island, make up Amorgos’ topography.
The island has been inhabited since Prehistoric times and prospered during the Cycladic Period.
At that time, Amorgos developed a thriving trade, navigation and the arts. Three important ancient
cities existed on the island, Minoa, Arkesini and Aigiali. During the Roman times, Amorgos used to be
a place of exile. Panagia Hozoviotissa Monastery, its landmark, was built during the Byzantine Period.
During the Frankish rule, the island suffered numerous invasions, to be occupied in the 16th century
by the Turks. Amorgos participated in the Greek Revolution against the Ottoman Empire in 1821. The
traditional Cycladic architectural style is evident in all of the island’s villages where local customs practice
and a well-known musical tradition have survived the test of time. A dense network of hiking trails enables
hikers to visit the monuments and enjoy the island’s natural beauty. Its area is 121 sq. km, its coastline is
112 km and has a population of 1,850. The crest of the island is Mount Krikellos (821 m.).
AMORGOS
137

178. The Venetian castle on the rock overlooks Chora.
Chora 1 • To Panagia’s Church (the island’s Metropolitan

church), dedicated to Koimisi tis Theotokou
It is considered one of the most picturesque
(Dormition of the Mother of God) and also to
towns in the Cyclades, situated approximately
Agios Ioannis Theologos’ church.
in the middle of the island, surrounded by
• To the post byzantine churches of Agios Thomas,
mountains and a hill with old windmills. A castle
Agios Thalelaios and Stavros (the Holy Cross).
atop an imposing rock stands out on the island’s
• To the church and side chapel (otherwise called
highest location, while at its foot lie the town’s
“a dual hypostasis” church) of Metamorfosi
snow-white houses. Old churches, traditional
(Transfiguration of Christ) and Agios Stefanos,
white houses with coloured doors and windows,
to a dependency of Panagia Hozoviotissa’s
stone paved narrow alleys, small squares,
beautiful terraces, stairs decorated with colourful 179. Traditional coffee-shop in Chora, Amorgos.
flower pots, small tavernas and cafés charm the
visitor with their particular character. Chora has
398 residents.
Town promenade
• To Kastro (Castle), built in the 13th century
by Jeremiah Gizi on the top of a rock, Chora’s
highest location. You will see parts of the castle
walls with battlements still standing. Visit the
small Agios Georgios’ church, by the castle’s
entrance, and the church of Kera Leousa nearby.
• To the Town Hall square.
• To Agios Fanourios’ church - the smallest
church in Greece - with a maximum capacity of
three people!
180. Katapola is the best natural harbour in Cyclades. >
Monastery and to the churches of Zoodochos

Pigi (meaning Life Giving Fountain), Treis
Ierarches and Agioi Pantes.
• To the possibly 16th century Gavra Mansion,
a beautiful Venetian edifice housing the
Archaeological Collection.
• To the High School building (1829), being the
first high school that was founded in Greece after
the 1821 Greek Independence War (expenses
covered by Panagia Hozoviotissa’s Monastery).
• To Kato Lakkos, a mediaeval cistern.
• To the windmills.
• To the ruins of the Hellenistic towers, at
Terlaki and Richti locations.
• To the Byzantine Panagia Hozoviotissa’s
Monastery, located 2.5 km NE. This singular
edifice built in a typical Aegean Sea monastic
architectural style, is standing on an imposing
mountainslope, 300 m. above sea level. According
to one version, the monastery was founded by monks from Palestine and was later renovated
the Byzantine emperor Alexios I Komnenos by the emperor Alexios I Komnenos. In the
in 1088, when the icon of Panagia arrived in Monastery’s sacristy, there are valuable sacred
Amorgos in a miraculous manner, sent by a items, apart from the icon of Panagia, which is
woman from Hozovo, Palestine during the period considered to have been painted by Luke the
of Iconoclasm. According to another version, the Evangelist and is honoured on November 21st.
Monastery was founded during the 9th century by • To Profitis Ilias’ country chapel, above
AMORGOS
139

181. Copper coin from ancient Arkesini (3rd -2nd c. BC) bearing the inscription ΑΡΚΕ [ARKE], (Numismatic Museum, Athens).
Panagia Hozoviotissa’s Monastery. comprises the areas Katapola, Rachidi and

• To Agios Georgios Valsamitis’ church, 4.5 Xylokeratidi. The church of Panagia Katapoliani
km SW. was built on the ruins of an Early Christian
• To the ruins of the Venetian tower, further Basilica. Katapoliani Fountain
up, past Agios Georgios church. is located at the harbour.
Beyond that lies Mountoulia
Trips around hill, and the ruins of
the island ancient Minoa, which

had been a colony of the
Katapola 2 people of Samos Island.
It is in this location that
Katapola is the island’s main port,
parts of the fortification
with beautiful white houses, traditional
and remains of the high
cafés, tavernas and restaurants, and
school building as well as the
182. Ancient Arkesini, part of the acropolis. temple of Dionysus (or Apollo) have
been found. Distance from Chora: 6 km W.
Arkesini 3
Arkesini is one of the most beautiful villages of
the island. The lovely villages of Kato Meria
area (Lefkes, Vroutsis and Kοlofana) are also
worth visiting. The remains of ancient Arkesini
were discovered at Kastri location. Additionally,
ruins of a 4th century BC Late Classical Period
tower are located near Agia Triada (Holy Trinity)
church. This is the best preserved fortress of
a rectangular shape in the Cyclades. From
Rachoula you will enjoy a magnificent view of
Arkesini. Distance from Chora: 14 km SW.
area. Set off from Kalotaritissa cove to visit
the sinuous beaches in this area, or take an
excursion boat to the islet Gramvoussa and
enjoy the beach of Mouros, as well as the one
by Panagia Hozoviotissa’s Monastery, Chalara and
Sparti. Distance from Chora: 16 and 17.5 km
respectively SW.
Events
• Agioi Anargyroi Feast, in Aigiali, on July 1st.
• Panagia Epanochoriani Feast, on August 15th.
• Stavros (Holy Cross) Feast, on September 14th.
183. The long beach of Levrosos.
• Metamorfosis tou Sotira (Transfiguration of
Aigiali 4 Christ) Feast, at Chora, on August 6th.
It is the island’s second port, built at the south
end of a sandy beach, with the nearby beautiful
villages of Lagkada, Tholaria and Potamos.
• Horse Riding.
There are ruins of Roman baths to be seen on
• Hiking - there are many marked paths and you
the beach. The citadel of ancient Aigiali lies on
will find the island is a very well-organised
a hill, whereas at the area around its acropolis
trekking destination.
the visitor can see scattered pieces of circular
• Mountaineering.
and rectangular towers dating to the Hellenistic
• Swimming in Agia Anna, at Aigiali cove, in
period. The picturesque village of Lagkada has
Levroso, Psili Ammos, Chochlaka, Chalara, at the
retained elements of traditional architecture.
beaches in Kalotaritissa, Mouros, Mavri Myti, as
Agios Theologos’ Byzantine church is situated
northeast of Lagkada; it is 200 years older than
Panagia Hozoviotissa’s Monastery. Distance
from Chora: 15 km NE.
Kοlofana -
Kalotaritissa 5
These are stock farmers’ villages in Kato Meria
184. Traditional pasteli [honeyed sesame bar]

on bitter orange leaves.
The Pasteli festival takes place in Chora on August 21st.
AMORGOS
well as in Ammoudi, Kato Krotiri, Kato Kampos, islet. Nikouria islet (a 365 m. elevation) lies just
Megalos Roukounas, Agios Panteleimonas, off the cove of Aigiali, where there is a small
Maltezi, Plakes and at the sandy beach of church of Panagia Nikouriani and remains of
Nikouria. an ancient building. Gramponisi islet is located
• Camping sites are open in Katapola and Aigiali.
• A visit to the neighbouring islets. Towards the
southwest of Nikouria. The islets Gramvoussa
(there’s a lovely beach there) and Psalida can
141
southwest, you will find Anydros (Amorgopoula) be seen opposite Kalotaritissa cove. Petalida

186. Agios Pavlos beach faces Nikouria islet.
185. Aigiali is located in a bay with beautiful sandy beaches.

Lagkada village lies further back.
islet lies opposite cape Tourlida (Troulli).
Finally, the rocky islets Mikro Viokastro and
Megalo Viokastro are situated off Panagia
Hozoviotissa’s Monastery at a small distance
from the coast.

• Amorgos Municipal Office: 22853-60.200
• Police station: 22850-71.210 (Chora),
22850-73.320 (Aigiali)
• Rural medical clinics:
22850-71.207 (Chora),
22850-73.222 (Aigiali),
22850-71.805 (Katapola)
• Port authority: 22850-71.259 (Katapola)
• Panagia Hozoviotissa’s Monastery:
22850-71.274
Website: www.amorgos.gr
187. Amorgos has lately developed
into a favourite destination for climbers,
as in the area around Lagkada there are 8 fields
with 36 routes with various degrees of difficulty.
CENTRAL AND EASTERN CYCLADES AMORGOS
143
Ios
188. Panoramic view of Ormos (Gialos), Ios’ harbour.
I
os or Nios, as the locals call it, is one of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades group, known
worldwide and preferred by young people for its nightlife. It is surrounded by Santorini, Paros and
Naxos and boasts numerous bays and long sandy beaches. 32 km, out of the 81.5 km of coastline,
are sandy beaches!
According to ancient tradition, Ios was the homeland of Homer’s mother, but also the burial place
of the great epic poet. An Early Cycladic Period settlement was discovered in Skarkos as well as
buildings regarded as dating to historical times. Palaiokastro was built during the Byzantine Period
at the northeastern side of the island. Ios was under Venetian domination until 1537, when the Turks
occupied the island. Its area is 108 sq. km and there are 1,830 residents.
Chora 1
IOS
It has been built on a hillside in an amphi-
theatrical formation. There are ruins of a
mediaeval castle on the hilltop. Snow-white little
houses, picturesque alleys lined with shops, the
145
twelve windmills, churches with arched belfries
SOUTHERN CYCLADES
and light blue domes create a unique residential
area. Chora is a heritage town.
Must see:
• The ruins of the mediaeval castle (1397)
189. Picturesque alley in the centre of Chora.
erected by Marco Crispi, the then sovereign.
• The ancient town of Ios, built on the hill • Psaropyrgos, a tower dating to the
next to where modern day Chora lies; there Hellenistic period at Plakoto location.
are remains of ancient building walls and
a segment of road and sewage network.
• Panagia Gremiotissa’s church
(late 18th century) on the hilltop, in Chora.
• The churches of Agios Nikolaos, Ormos (Gialos) 2
Evangelismos (Annunciation) and Agia It is Ios’ harbour. Agia Eirini’s church lies at the
Aikaterini possibly built on the location harbour’s entrance, perched on the rocks. The
of the ancient temple of Pythius Apollo. remains of a Prehistoric settlement of the
• Amoiradakeio Megaro, a neoclassical Early Cycladic Period have been located on
building of the early 20th century. Skarkos hill. It is worth visiting Koumpara beach
The Town Hall and the Archaeological where you will enjoy the lovely sunset view.
Museum are housed in this mansion. Distance from Chora: 1.5 km E.
• The windmills.
• Plateia Omirou (Homer’s square), Mylopotas 3
at the harbour, on the road towards Chora. Mylopotas is a resort with a marvellous 1
• The Odysseas Elytis theatre, built of
km long sandy beach. Visit the small church
stone and modelled after an ancient theatre.
of Panagia in the area, as well as the lake
• The Museum of Modern Art (at Kolitsanoi
reservoir. Also, follow the scenic route from
location), where works of art from
Mylopotas up to Manganari. Distance from
the collection of Jean Marie Dro are on display.
Chora: 2 km SE.
190. Mylopotas, a large popular sandy beach with water sports facilities.
191. Treis Ekklisies beach.
Activities
on the island
IOS
• Diving (at Mylopotas).
• Fishing. 147
• Swimming at the popular Mylopotas beach, at
SOUTHERN CYCLADES
Manganari, Psathi and at the sandy beaches of
Agia Theodoti, Kalamos, Diammoudia, Treis
Ekklisies, Papa, Plakes, Tzamaria, Koumpara,
Loretzaina and Plakoto.
• Hiking.
• Spear Fishing.
• Sailing.
• Water sports.
• Campsites at Mylopotas and at Ormos (Gialos).

192. An Early-Cycladic Period settlement on Skarkos hillside.
• Ios Municipal Office: 22863-60.400
• Municipal Enterprise for Tourism
Agia Theodoti 4 Growth: 22860-91.936
It is a village ideal for your holidays with a long • Police station: 22860-91.222
beach and the ruins of a Roman aqueduct. • Rural Health Centre: 22863-60.000
There is a trail starting from the old settlement • Port authority: 22860-91.264
and leading to Gefyri location through an • Long Distance Bus Terminus (KTEL):
impressive landscape. Distance from Chora: 22860-92.015
9 km NE. • Archaeological Museum: 22860-91.246
• Museum of Modern Art:
Psathi 5 22860-91.246
Psathi is a good choice for your holidays. You
Website: www.ios.gr
can also visit the ruins of the 7th-8th century
Palaiokastro (meaning an old castle) on a rocky 193. The putative grave of Homer
hillock. Distance from Chora: 17.5 km E. is on Plakoto location, on Ios’ north shores.
Manganari 6
Manganari is an area with amazing sandy beaches
and turquoise waters where part of the film “The
Big Blue” was shot. Do visit the three scenic coves
Treis Ekklisies, Kalamos and Plakes and their
outstanding beaches, as well as the Monastery of
Agios Ioannis tou Kalamou), 7.5 km NW. Distance
from Chora: 19 km SE.
Events
• Omireia, cultural events organised from the
middle of May until the beginning of September at
the Odysseas Elytis theatre.
• Agios Ioannis Feast in Psathi and in Manganari
on August 29th.
IOS
149
SOUTHERN CYCLADES
194. Ios’ Chora is a typical Cyclades town,

attracting thousands of tourists every year.
Sikinos
195. Sikinos’ Chora, built close to a precipice, is among the most beautiful towns in Cyclades.
S
ikinos is a relatively small island, ideal for a quiet holiday, strolls in scenic locations and swimming
in clear waters. The vegetation is scanty and the ground is rocky. A special feature of the island
is the steep cliff located at the northwestern part, where Chora is built. The island’s area is 40 sq.
km, its coastline is 41 km and there are 240 residents.
It was first inhabited during the Mycenaean Period and was also named Oinoi, after the numerous
vineyards and its fine wine (oinos in Greek means wine). During the 10th century BC, the Ionians
settled in Sikinos. In the 5th century BC it came under Athenian rule. Through the centuries, the island
of Sikinos followed the destiny of the other Cyclades islands, and became occupied by the Romans and
the Byzantines. During the period of the Venetian rule, Sikinos became part of the Duchy of Naxos.
In the year 1537 the island was conquered by the Turks. It joined the Greek state in 1829.
Chora 1 Life Giving Fountain) perched on the edge of a
SIKINOS
rock, resembling a castle, in an amazing location.
It is one of the most beautiful towns in
• The Folk Art Museum, housed in
Cyclades, with manors built of stone and narrow
a renovated old olive press building.
picturesque alleys.There are two quarters: the
oldest one is Kastro (Castle), also called Sikinos,
• Christ’s Byzantine church.
• The churches of Agia Anna, Agios
151
whereas the second quarter, Chorio (the Greek
Vasileios and Eisodia tis Theotokou
SOUTHERN CYCLADES
word for village) has been built in the recent
(Entry of the Virgin Mary in the Temple).
years. Chora’s square with its traditional cafés
• Mavri Spilia (Black Cave, NW), the largest
and shops is the centre of the island’s social life.
cave on the island.
Must see: • Episkopi’s monastery, 4 km SW, where you
• The manors, typical examples of the can visit the most important finds regarding
traditional Cycladic architecture. ancient habitation on the island. The church
• Pantanassa-Timios Stavros’ church, of Koimisi tis Theotokou (Dormition
situated on the eastern side of the stone of the Mother of God) is a reconstructed
paved square. It was built in 1787 and in it 3rd century A.D. Roman mausoleum.
there is a wood carved, gilded iconostasis • The 14th century small Byzantine church
of exceptional art and marvellous post of Agios Georgios.
byzantine icons crafted along the lines • The ancient settlements where there are
of the Cretan School of icon painting. ruins of ancient buildings in Agia Marina area
• The three windmills, at Chora’s highest (S. of Episkopi). Another ancient settlement
location. (Paliokastro) is located on the northeastern
• Zoodochos Pigi’s monastery (meaning side of the island, close to Cape Malta.
196. Pantanassa’s church in Chora’s main square.

197. Zoodochos Pigi’s monastery
standing on the rock, overlooking Chora.
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Alopronoia
(Ano Pronoia) 2
Alopronoia or Ano Pronoia is the island’s port.
This small fishing village is a rising tourist
destination, and the centre of the island’s
nightlife. You can also find idyllic sparkling
beaches in the vicinity. Go swimming in
Alopronoia beach, or go on a boat trip to Agios
Georgios, Agios Panteleimonas, Dialiskari,
Santorinaiika and Petra. Distance from Chora:
4 km SE.
Events
• Feasts of: Panagia on August 15th, Zoodochos
Pigi (Life Giving Fountain), Eisodia tis Theotokou
198. Alopronoia and its lovely sandy beach.
SIKINOS
153
SOUTHERN CYCLADES
199. The beach in Santorinaiika.
(Entry of Virgin Mary in the Temple) on November

21st and Panagia Pantanassa on March 27th.
Activities
on the island
• Swimming in Alopronoia, Agios Nikolaos,
Dialiskari, Maltas, Agios Georgios, Agios Pante-
leimonas, Santorinaiika, Agios Ioannis and Karas.
• Diving.
• Spear fishing.
• Hiking.

Website: www.sikinos.gr
Folegandros
200. A small part of Folegandros’ Chora and Panagia’s church further up the hill.
Τ
he island of Folegandros will offer the visitor a deeply relaxing holiday in a classic Cycladic
landscape that has remained unspoilt by fast tourism growth. Wandering about the streets
paved with cobblestone in Chora (the main town) and the castle’s narrow alleys; climbing on
the rock of Panagia where you will feast your eyes on a panoramic view of the Aegean Sea; swimming
at secluded beaches or at more popular ones; all the above are aspects composing one of the most
beautiful settings in Cyclades. The island’s area is 32 sq. km, its coastline is 31.5 km and there are
670 inhabitants. It is located in the southwestern Cyclades, between Sikinos and Milos. According to
mythology, the leader of the first settlers on the island (coming from the island of Crete) was called
Folegandros and was the son of the Cretan King Minos.
FOLEGANDROS
Chora 1 • The three picturesque squares of Pounta,
Piatsa and Dounavides where the cafés
Built inside as well as outside around the castle,
and restaurants are a meeting place for
Chora stands 150 m. above sea level. The castle
residents and visitors alike.
is perched on a crag and the view from some
parts of it is breathtaking. In the town centre
• Panagia’s church, renovated in 1687
and rebuilt in 1821. The marble iconostasis,
155
there are many churches, beautiful squares
SOUTHERN CYCLADES
the archiepiscopal throne and pulpit are
with traditional cafés and tavernas, stone
the artwork of Kaparias, a renowned marble
paved alleys - such as the one that links Pounta
sculptor from Tinos. The church is located
square with the church of Panagia - Koimisi tis
outside the castle (10-15 minute walk) in an
Theotokou (Dormition of the Mother of God)-
area affording a stunning view of the Aegean.
and whitewashed houses with the classic small
• Chrysospilia Cave. It is located on the
yards.
201. Ancient inscriptions in Chrysospilia cave, a place of great archaeological interest.
202. Panagia’s church (Chora), built on the site of an ancient temple.
Must see:
• The mediaeval castle, built by the
Venetians led by Marco Sanudo, in 1212.
Visit the churches of Eleousa (1530),
Pantanassa and Agia Sofia, and admire
their remarkable iconostases.
• The churches of Agios Nikolaos
(metropolitan church) and Taxiarchis
(with icons painted according to the Cretan
School of icon art) as well as the church and
side chapel (called a dual hypostasis church)
of Agia Aikaterini & Agios Antonios.
northeastern side of the island. Permission
is required for a visit. Safe access is possible
only by boat when the weather is very good.

Karavostasis 2
Karavostasis is the island’s port. It is worth
visiting the small church of Agios Artemios and
the lovely beach nearby. On your way to Chora
you will come across Agioi Pantes’ country
chapel which is partly built in a rock. Distance
from Chora: 3 km SE.
Agkali 3
Agkali is a small coastal village, built in an
amphitheatrical formation around Agkali Bay.
Do visit Agios Nikolaos’ country chapel by the
beach and the Lighthouse at Cape Aspropounta.
Distance from Chora: 4.5 km W.
FOLEGANDROS
of Leivadaki, Ampeli, Lygaria and Agios Georgios,
the last one being the island’s northernmost
beach. By boat you can reach Katergo, a fine
pebble beach with crystalline, deep blue waters,
as well as Georgitsi’s cave.
• Camping in Karavostasis (Livadi).
157
• Diving.
SOUTHERN CYCLADES
• Spear fishing.
• Hiking along the path routes - 20 km in all. The
main tracks begin at Ano Meria towards Agkali
(duration: 1 hour), towards the small church of
Zoodochos Pigi (1 hour 15 min.), to Ampeli (30
min.) and to Leivadaki going past the Aspropounta
lighthouse on your way back (2 hours 10 min.).
There is also a route starting at Chora and going
towards Agkali (45 min.).

• Rural Medical Clinic 22860-41.470
203. Katergo beach, on the island’s south shores. • Port authority: 22860-41.530
• Ano Meria Folk Art Museum:
Ano Meria 4 22860-41.370
Ano Meria is the second biggest village of
Website: www.folegandros.gr
Folegandros, on the northwestern side of the
island. It is a farmers’ village and most houses are 204. Aspropounta lighthouse (1919).
called themonies, a name used to describe small The view from the spot is fascinating.
autonomous agricultural and stock farming units.
To learn more about the agricultural life in Ano
Meria visit the local Folk Art Museum where a
house, a stable and all the tools once used by locals
are on display. Distance from Chora: 5.5 km NW.
Events
• Giortes Folegandrou (Festivities in Folegandros)
including concerts with the participation of famous
artists, traditional dancing and exhibitions in July.
• Easter Treat, a customary practice lasting for
three days.
• Big Feast in honour of Panagia (Virgin Mary) on
August 15th.
Activities
on the island
• Swimming in Karavostasis, Vardia, Vitsetzo,
Livadi, Pountaki, or Latinaki. Also, at the beaches
Santorini (Thira)
205. Panoramic view of Fira and the caldera of Santorini’s volcano.
S
antorini is one of the best known Greek islands the world over. It is in itself a unique geological
phenomenon, as today’s island is what has remained of the initial island, Strongyli (meaning
Round), which sunk to the bottom of the sea following an eruption of its volcano during the 16th
century B.C. This has been one of the most powerful eruptions in the history of Earth: three quarters of
the island were submerged, shaping today’s Caldera. Furthermore, the major aftermath of that eruption
was the destruction of the Minoan Palaces in Crete. Santorini’s area is 73 sq. km, its coastal length is
69.5 km and there are 13,670 residents.
Santorini is the southernmost island in the Cyclades group. The island of Santorini is actually a group
of islands comprised of Thira, Thirasia, Aspronisi, Palaia Kameni and Nea Kameni (Kameni meaning
burned). The island’s architectural heritage is preserved remarkably well in Fira and Oia as well as in
other inland villages. An important prehistoric civilisation thrived on the island, mainly during the Middle
Cycladic Period, and was destroyed by the volcanic eruption. In time, the island was repopulated and
it flourished during the Hellenistic and Roman times. Later on the Venetians took the island over and
remained there for centuries. Over the last decades, Santorini has known a massive tourism growth.
Still, the island has remained as appealing as ever, with secrets and places of unspoiled natural beauty
yet to be explored, not to mention the lovely sunset for which Santorini has been renowned across
the planet. Local wine is famous and the island’s vineyards have been producing it since antiquity. The
grape varieties grown here are Asyrtiko, Athiri, Aidani, Mandilaria (red) and Mavrotragano (red). The
quality of Vinsanto wine is exceptional and it is produced by mixing two varieties: Asyrtiko and Aidani.
206. The Museum of Prehistoric Thira houses masterpieces from Akrotiri and other places on the island.
SANTORINI
Fira 1
Fira is the capital town of Santorini and one of
the most enchanting ones in Greece, built on an
impressive location on top of steep cliffs. It was
founded in the late 18th century, and has been 159
built in the traditional Cycladic architectural style.
SOUTHERN CYCLADES
A tour in Fira is a unique experience: picturesque
neighbourhoods, snow-white houses, churches
with light blue domes, busy alleys lined with
shops, cafeterias and restaurants, offering -
almost all of them - a breathtaking view of the
caldera. Firostefani village is on the town’s highest
level, offering the visitor a truly breathtaking
sunset view.
A promenade in Fira
• To the churches of Ypapanti tou Sotiros
(the orthodox metropolitan church)
and Agios Ioannis Vaptistis
(the catholic cathedral).
• To the Archaeological
Museum, where a large
208. Impressive view 207. Local silver stater [coin]

of Nea Kameni islet (525 BC) depicting dolphins
and the Aegean Sea from Fira. (Numismatic Museum, Athens).
collection of 7th and 6th century

B.C. vessels is on display as well as
statues dating from the Archaic up to
the Roman Period.
• To the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, one
of Greece’s most interesting ones, showcasing
murals from the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri,
amongst other things.
• To the Folk Art Museum, housed in a traditional
residence built in 1861 within a rock. Exhibits
include traditional items of every-day life on the
island, paintings and books referring to Santorini’s
history.
• To the 18th century Megaro Gyzi (Gyzi
Mansion), featuring various very interesting
collections (copper engravings etc.).
• To Agia Aikaterini Dominican Nunnery.
• To Bellonio Cultural Centre and to Petros
Nomikos Conference Centre, where congresses,
exhibitions, concerts etc. take place.
• To Firostefani, a traditional village with
interesting architectural style, offering a splendid
view of the surrounding area.
209. Santorini’s Caldera is one of the most
photographed spots of the Mediterranean.
SOUTHERN CYCLADES SANTORINI
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SANTORINI
• To Caldera, as well as to Nea Kameni and
Palaia Kameni islets; these are areas of
exceptional natural beauty and of great scientific
interest (an active volcano crater is on Nea
Kameni). A small boat will take you there.
163
SOUTHERN CYCLADES
Karterados 2
This is one of the most beautiful and picturesque
inland villages. The old village and its impressive
churches are built below ground level partly
hewn within the rock (two-room houses are built
in the easily dug volcanic ash). A good number
of houses are built in a gully, so that their roofs 211. Santorini’s vineyards produce top quality wines,
are on the same level with the street. Distance as a result of the island’s volcanic soil.
from Fira: 2 km SE.
observatory during the Venetian domination.
Imerovigli 3 • Theoskepasti, a small church built

on the edge of a cliff with a lovely view
It is built in a prestigious location, at the highest
of the surrounding area.
level of Thira’s Caldera at an elevation of 300
• Agios Georgios’ church.
m., between Fira and Oia. This is a picturesque
• The 1674 Agios Nikolaos’ imposing
heritage village, a group of lovely traditional
monastery.
houses and churches. Distance from Fira:
2.5 km NW.
Mesaria 4
It is situated roughly in the centre of the island
Must see:
and is famous for its vineyards where the largest
• The ruins of Skaros, a Venetian castle, quantity of wine on the island is produced.
built by Marco Sanudo, used as an
Distance from Fira: 3 km SE.
210. Imerovigli has been called
“Santorini’s balcony” on account of its location. Vourvoulos 5
This is a village that keeps to all its traditional
features. It is located on the northeastern side
of the island very close to Fira. Do visit the
village’s Byzantine church as well as kanaves,
the local traditional wineries. Distance from
Fira: 3.5 km NE.
Vothonas 6
A picturesque village with houses built below
ground level partly hewn within the rock. It is
worth visiting the remarkable churches of Agia
Triada (Holy Trinity), Agia Anna and Panagia,
dating back to the 1700s, as well as the Museum
of Wine (housed in the Volcan Wines winery,
on the way to Kamari) where the history of
Santorini’s wine is depicted from the 17th until
the 20th century. Distance from Fira: 4 km SE.
Pyrgos 7
Pyrgos is a big village, with many mediaeval
houses and noteworthy churches offering an
excellent view of the island. Distance from
Fira: 7.5 km SE.
Must see:
• The Collection of Icons and Ecclesiastical
Sacred Items (in Agia Triada).
• The 10th century Theotokaki church
with an interesting wood carved iconostasis
and valuable icons.
Kamari 9
This is a modern village with a cosmopolitan
character, famous for its black sandy beach, and
a famous tourist destination. Distance from
Fira: 8.5 km SE.
Must see:
• Ancient Thira (2.5 km S). It was founded
during the 9th century B.C. by Dorian colonists
and has remained populated until the end of the
Early Byzantine period. The archaeological site
includes housing units, market places, thermae,
212. The Red beach on the island’s south side.
• The half-ruined monastery of Profitis Ilias

(1711), 4 km S.
Emporeio 8
Emporeio is a traditional village, with an evident
mediaeval character, fortress-style architecture
and narrow alleys. Perissa resort is the area’s
seaport, featuring the famous black sandy
beach. Distance from Fira: 8 km S.
Must see:
• Kastro (the castle) located at the very
centre of Emporeio. Panagia and Agios
Spyridonas’ churches are also situated
nearby (near the southern gate).
• Goulas, a tower offering a view of the
surrounding area.
• The old windmills.
SANTORINI
the ashes of the volcano. It was first inhabited
in the Late Neolithic Period and prospered during
the Bronze Age. Its architecture shares many
common elements with that of the Minoan cities.
Observe the multi-storeyed houses, stone-paved
streets and squares, the sewerage network and
165
SOUTHERN CYCLADES
murals. Distance from Fira: 9.5 km SW.
Must see:
• Venetsianiko Kastro (Venetian castle)
as it affords amazing views.
• Agia Theodosia’s church.
213. Kamari is a well-developed tourist destination

with a popular beach.
theatres, sanctuaries, graves relating to various

periods of time and Early Christian remains.
• Agios Nikolaos’ church.
• The coastal promenade area.
• Zoodochos Pigi’s country chapel.
Akrotiri 10
Akrotiri is a picturesque village at caldera’s south
end, built around the walls of a Venetian castle.
Close by, you can visit one of Greece’s most
important archaeological sites, a Prehistoric
settlement that was discovered buried under
214. View of Oia. Fira is in the background. 215. The archaeological site in Akrotiri.
• Dimotiko Scholeio (elementary school)

and Mnimeio Pesonton (Fighters’
Memorial).
• Agios Nikolaos’ small church.
• Kokkini Paralia (Red Beach). Enormous
red rocks and reddish pebbles compose
a unique landscape.
• Panagia Kalamiotissa’s church.
• Faros (The lighthouse)
Oia 11
Oia is one of the island’s top resort areas, a
village of astounding beauty. It was the first
village in Greece to become a heritage site as
its greatest part has been built below ground
level partly hewn within the rock. In the minds
of hundreds of visitors, Oia’s name has been
connected with breathtaking sunset views; it is
a fine spot for hundreds of visitors who watch
the sun go down every evening. Life here is
quieter than in Fira and holiday-makers will
feel the touch of magic in this place! Distance
from Fira: 10.5 km NW.
Must see:
• The traditional weaving mill.
• Naftiko Mouseio (Naval Museum)
housing significant exhibits of the island’s
naval history.
• The churches of Panagia Platsani
and Panagia tou Akathistou Ymnou.
• Kastro (The Castle).
• Ammoudi, Oia’s seaport located in
a marvellous natural setting. 217. View of Santorini from Nea Kameni.
• Armeni, a picturesque beach. • International Music Festival taking place in early

• Anemomyloi (The windmills). September in Fira.
• Agioi Epta Paides’ small church, built on • Episkopi Feast in Mesa Gonia, on August 15th,
a rock. where traditional fava (made of yellow split peas)
• Agios Nikolaos islet named after the small is served.
church on it. • The most popular religious feasts are:
a) Profitis Ilias on July 20th in Fira,
Perivolos 12 b) Agioi Epta Paides on August 4th in Oia,
Perissa beach continues after a certain point c) Metamorfosis tou Sotiros on August 6th
as Perivolos beach. These two are the most d) Panagia on August 15th in Akrotiri,
famous beaches with the best facilities on the e) Agios Ioannis on August 29th in Perissa and
island. Distance from Fira: 10.5 km S. f) Panagia Myrtidiotissa on September 24th in
Kamari.
Events • Feast of Agios Averkios, the protector of wine-

making, in Emporeio on October 22nd.
• Ifaisteia is a festival including cultural events,
concerts and dancing performances during
August. Activities on the island
216. Santorini’s “fava” ( traditional dish). • Swimming in the area of Akrotiri, in Balos,
Gialos, Kokkini Paralia (Red Beach), Kampia,
in Aspri Paralia (White Beach), Mesa Pigadia
and Almyra; in Vlychada and the seashores
of Exomyti; at the beaches of Vourvoulos and
Xiropigado, in the area of Emporeio, Perissa and
Perivolos; in Kamari and at the beach of Avis, at
the area of Oia, in Armeni, Armenaki, Ammoudi,
Peramataris, Katharos, Baxedes, Paradeisos,
Koloumpos and Pori.
• Wind surfing.
• Scuba diving in Taxiarchis in Palaia Kameni
(there’s a shipwreck there), around the reef of
SANTORINI
167
SOUTHERN CYCLADES
218. The famous sunset view from Oia is a major attraction for millions of visitors all year round.
Adiavati area (close to Akrotiri), in Ammoudi, Useful phone numbers (+30)

Armeni and Aspronisi.
• Thira Municipal Office: 22860-22.231
• Fishing.
• Oia Community Office: 22860-71.228
• Hiking from Fira towards Oia (9 km) along
• Police-Tourist Police station: 22860-22.649
Caldera, from the area of Ancient Thira towards • Rural Health Centre: 22863-60.300
Perissa (30 min. hike) and from Profitis Ilias to • Port Authority: 22860-22.239
Perissa (45 min. hike). • Airport: 22860-28.405
• Water sports. • Thira’s Long Distance Bus Terminus
• Sailing. (KTEL): 22860-25.462
• Going on excursion aboard the submarine • Archaeological Museum: 22860-22.217
Atlantis-Santorini 1, around Caldera’s underwater • Museum of Prehistoric Thira:
area (tel. 22860-28.900-1). 22860-23.217
• Visiting the island’s wineries where you will • Akrotiri’s Archaeological site:
acquaint yourself with the variety of Santorini’s 22860-81.366
wines and you can take wine tasting lessons.
Website: www.santorini.gr
• Camping sites in Fira, Megalochori or Perissa.
219. There is a variety of services on offer on popular Perissa beach which is covered in thin black sand.
SANTORINI
169
220. The traditional village of Oia. SOUTHERN CYCLADES

SOUTHERN CYCLADES
Notice the colourful houses partly built
and hewn within the rock at the village’s lower part.
The impressive seacaptains’ houses
occupy the upper side.
Thirasia
221. Korfos, the small seaport of inland Manolas area,

is a picturesque village with a beautiful beach offering a wonderful view of Santorini.
Τ
hirasia belongs to Santorini’s group of islands and is located opposite Oia. Today’s island is
what’s left of the western coast of Strongyli island, following the volcano’s eruption in 1500 BC.
The imposing natural relief with impressive geological formations, the local architectural style
evident in houses and churches, an enchanting view of Santorini, Palaia Kameni and Nea Kameni islets
and the scenic coast of Korfos where you can find traditional tavernas, all the above are characteristic
features of this very charming, yet little-known island. Its area is 9 sq. km and there are 260 residents.
Settlements of the Late Bronze Age and the Classical Period have been found here. You can reach
Thirasia by boat from Santorini or from Oia.
THIRASIA
Manolas (Thirasia town) 1 • Potamos, a traditional inland village.
It is the island’s biggest village, built according • Riva, Thirasia’s port. You can visit
the church of Agia (Saint) Eirini, after who
to local tradition and offering a unique view of
171
the island of Santorini was named (Santa
the caldera.
Irini), according to tradition.
• The settlement of the Late Bronze Age,
Must see:
SOUTHERN CYCLADES
in the southern part of the island.
• The churches of Agios Konstantinos
and Agios Ioannis as well as Profitis Ilias’
Activities
country chapel located on the island’s
highest peak. on the island
• Vigla location, affording a splendid view • Swimming in the beaches of Korfos and Riva.
of Thirasia and Korfos. • Fishing.
• Panagia’s Monastery, (3 km S) offering • Diving at cape Trypiti.
a view of Caldera, Santorini, Palaia Kameni • Hiking.
and Nea Kameni, as well as Keradiana
Gremna. Useful phone numbers (+30):
• Korfos, Manolas’ seaport, where the view • Community office: 22860-29.143
of the caldera is amazing. • Rural medical clinic: 22860-29.144
You will find some traditional tavernas here. Website: www.thirasia.gr
Anafi
222. Anafi’s Chora lies on a hill around the residential nucleus of the 13th century Venetian castle.
A
nafi is a small paradise with pristine lovely countryside bearing all the features of a typical
beautiful Cyclades island. It is located east of Santorini. Mount Kalamos (460 m.) rises on the
island’s east side.
According to Greek mythology, Anafi was ordered by Apollo to emerge from the bottom of the Aegean, in
order to provide shelter to the Argonauts. There is also another version connecting the name of the island
with the non-existence of snakes on it (An-ofis: “an” meaning “absence of” and “ofis” meaning snake)!
The ancient town of Anafi was founded by Dorians during the 8th century BC. During the Byzantine
times, Anafi had suffered pirate raids. In 1537, after interim periods of Venetian rule, the island was
occupied by the Turks, following the invasion of Hayreddin Barbarossa who razed the place to the
ground. During the 1860s, Anafi’s Chora served as a model for local masons who had migrated in Attica
and built the picturesque Anafiotika settlement at the foot of the Acropolis rock in Athens. Anafi’s area
is 40 sq. km, its coastline is 33 km and there are 250 residents.
the Roman Period as a large number of Roman
ANAFI
sepulchral sculptures, marble statues and busts
were found in the area. The town was abandoned
during the Early-Christian Period. At the foot
of the hill, you can visit the country chapel of
Panagia sto Dokari, (next to the chapel, you
173
will notice a marble Roman sarcophagus with
SOUTHERN CYCLADES
embossed decorations) as well as Agios Mamas’
country chapel. Right next to it there is a Roman
sepulchral complex, near Iera Odos (Sacred
Way) which used to lead from the ancient town to
the sanctuary of Apollo.
• To the remains of the Ancient Town’s sea-
port, in Katelimatsa (Katalimatsa) bay, south
of Kastelli hill; there are scattered architectural
members and ruins of a cemetery.
• To the ruins of the sanctuary of Aiglitis Apollo
or Anafaios Apollo, at the foot of Mt. Kalamos,
223. Traditional dry-stone wall in Chora. 224. Chora affords a marvellous view of the Aegean Sea.
Anafi’s Chora (town) 1

It is built on the ruins of a Venetian castle and
has snow-white domed houses and narrow stone
paved alleys. Chora is a very picturesque aggregate
of churches, small squares, domed and flat-roofed
houses, and narrow alleys with whitewashed stairs.
The remains of the Venetian castle have been
incorporated in the modern town.
Must see:
• Agios Spyridonas’ church, featuring an
exceptional architectural style, Stavros’ (the
Cross) church and its 17th century iconostasis,
the church of Koimisi tis Theotokou
(Dormition of the Mother of God), having a
remarkable icon screen, the Metropolitan
church of Agios Nikolaos with a 17th century
elaborate iconostasis and noteworthy icons,
as well as the churches of Agioi Anargyroi,
Agios Charalampos and Agios Athanasios,
at the upper square where a memorial stands.
• The windmills.
• The Archaeological Collection,
where the majority of exhibits date back
to the Roman period.

• To Kastelli hilltop, where the Ancient town’s
remains are located. It prospered greatly during
on the island’s east tip. Ancient building material, top, at 460 m. above sea level (1 hour and 30
taken from the temple, has been used for the minutes hike, through an imposing mountainous
construction of Zoodochos Pigi’s Monastery in terrain). There is an 18th century iconostasis at the
Kato Panagia. monastery’s main church. Outside the Monastery,
• To Zoodochos Pigi’s Monastery (meaning there are remains of mediaeval fortification.
Life Giving Fountain) - Kato Panagia. There is a • To Kleisidi, a coastal village, 2.5 km SE of
remarkable iconostasis and 19th century icons Chora.
in the monastery’s main church (katholikon). • To Agios Nikolaos (the island’s harbour),
Within the monastery grounds and in the following the scenic uphill path that connects
greater surrounding area you will find scattered the village to Chora.
architectural members and ruins of the sanctuary • To the country chapels of Christos (Christ),
of Aiglitis Apollo or Anafaios Apollo. 4.5 km N., and Faneromeni, towards the island’s
• To Drakontospilo (Dragon cave), east of northern part.
Zoodochos Pigi’s Monastery. • To Agios Antonios’ Byzantine church (N.),
• To Panagia Kalamiotissa’s Monastery (Ano having built-in ancient architectural members
Panagia). It is located on Kalamos’ mountain and amazing 13th century murals.
25Anafi130a_new-ENG_new_NOV14.indd 1 06/11/2014 3:39 μ.μ.

Events
ANAFI
• Argonaftika, cultural and sports events, in mid-
August.
• Panagia Kalamiotissa Feast, the island’s patron
saint, on September 7th -8th.
175
SOUTHERN CYCLADES
Activities
on the island
• Hiking is the best way to get to know the island
as there are trails (total length: 18 km), which
go through the largest part of Anafi.
• Climbing.
• Swimming in the south coast, in Kleisidi, Agios
Nikolaos bay, Katsouni, Roukounas, Flamourou,
Katelimatsa (Katalimatsa), Megalos (or Megas)
Potamos, Agios Ioannis, Agioi Anargyroi and
Monastiri (Prasies). Along the west shoreline,
go swimming in Kameni Lagkada, Vagia and
Prassa, whereas on the north coast, you can
visit Drepano, Livoskopo, Agios Georgios bay
and Chalara. Anafopoula, a small island lies 225. The beach in Agios Nikolaos cove.
south of Anafi.
• Fishing. • Police station - Port authority: 22860-61.216
• Municipal office: 22860-61.266 Website: www.anafi.gr
226. The sandy beach of Mikros Roukounas and Megalos Roukounas stretches for 1 km.
PUBLICATION: GREEK NATIONAL TOURISM ORGANISATION
November 2016
Publication Supervision: PENELOPE NOMPILAKI
Director, Directorate of Market Research and Advertising
Publication Coordination: POLINA VRACHATI
Head, Department of Publications & Audiovisual Media
Greek Text: YANNIS RAGOS
Design Supervision: MARIA MANDREKA
Translation: ANGELIKI CHRISTOPOULOU
Page Layout - Colour Proofs: V+O COMMUNICATION
English Layout Adaptation: ZOE TZOMENTZIDOU
Photo Credits: F
ront Cover, 2, 14, 22, 25, 28, 51, 54, 74, 88, 109, 155, 156, 158, 167, 168, 174,
178, 194, 195, 197, 199, 200, 203, 220, 222, 224, 225, 226: C. MOUSTAFELLOU
- 217: M. AINALIS - 150, 216: F. BALTATZIS - 153 E. BELLIYIANNI - 45a:
N. DESYLLAS - 3, 8, 42, 46, 123, 136, 137, 138, 144, 145, 147, 149, 160, 162,
163, 190, 191: G. DETSIS - 210, 213: G. DIAMANTOPOULOS - 173, 175: P.
DIMITRAKOPOULOS - 184: K. KAFIRIS - 66: H. KAKAROUHAS - 35, 127:
G. KAVALLIERAKIS - 105, 117, 128: N. KONTOS - 201: G. KOULAXIDIS - 34,
36, 37, 39, 41, 47, 49, 52, 53, 55: K. KOUZOUNI - 161, 223: M. MANDREKA
- 10, 12, 15, 16, 20, 30, 50, 80, 85, 97, 129, 135, 139, 140, 166, 170, 172, 176,
221: P. MATSOUKA - 143: ANT. NIKOLOPOULOS - 165: S. PAPADIMITRIOU -
44, 106, 107, 196, 198, 202: Y. PSILAKIS - 212: D. ROZAKI - 89, 154:
B. SFYRAS - 21, 26, 29, 60, 95, 104, 108, 111, 114, 116, 124, 148, 182, 188,
192, 193, 204, 205, 206, 208, 209, 214, 215, 218: Y. SKOULAS - 27, 84:
M. STAFYLIDOU - 32, 58, 62, 75, 189, 211, 219: P. STOLIS - 72, 86, 134:
K. VERGAS - 63, 68: SHUTTERSTOCK - (183, 186, 187: G. KAPSALIS -
185: Y. LOUDAROS) AMORGOS MUNICIPALITY - 65, 69, 70, 71: ANDROS
MUNICIPALITY - 100: CASINO OF SYROS - 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, 38, 56, 57, 64, 73,
77, 81, 94, 96, 99, 118, 119, 120, 125, 126, 151, 152, 159, (164: Y. GAVALAS
- 90: ST. MAMIDIS - 48: D. POUPALOS - 157, 169, 171, 177, 179, 180: AN.
SMARAGDIS - 130, 131, 132, 133: PAROS MUNICIPALITY) DEVELOPMENT
CORPORATION OF LOCAL AUTHORITIES OF CYCLADES S.A. - (110,113:
P. CHATZIDAKIS - 121: Y. KOURAGIOS - 141, 146: EIR. LEGAKI - 61:
CHR. TELEVANTOU - 40: N. XENIKAKIS - 115: ARCHAEOLOGICAL
MUSEUM OF DELOS) XXI DIRECTORATE OF PREHISTORIC AND
CLASSICAL ANTIQUITIES - 19, 31, 45b: GNTO ARCHIVES - 79: KOSTAS
TSOCLIS MUSEUM - 13, 17, 18: KYTHNOS MUNICIPALITY - 1: MUSEUM
OF CYCLADIC ART - 59a, 59b: MUSEUM OF MODERN ART - V. & E.
GOULANDRIS FOUNDATION - 4, 23, 33, 43, 67, 83, 91, 112, 122, 142, 181,
207: NUMISMATIC MUSEUM, ATHENS - 24: SERIFOS MUNICIPALITY
- (92, 93, 98, 101, 102, 103: ST. MAMIDIS) SYROS- ERMOUPOLI MUNICI-
PALITY - 76, 78, 82, 87: TINOS MUNICIPALITY
Photo Editing: KATERINA KOUZOUNI
Maps: TERRAIN Editions S.A.
Print: PRESSIOUS ARVANITIDIS S.A.
ISBN: 978-960-534-074-2
Copyright: GREEK NATIONAL TOURISM ORGANISATION
THIS PUBLICATION IS NOT FOR SALE

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GREECE

GREEK NATIONAL TOURISM ORGANISATION

Cover: Sculpted geometrical white-coloured surfaces reflecting

The website for all the islands is: www.cyclades-tour.gr

3. Panoramic view of Ioulida.

Promenade in Chora 13th century.

and its characteristic chimney, where old

9. Panagia Kastriani’s Monastery is the island’s most important place of worship.

Activities on the island 9

Useful phone numbers (+30)

11. Kea boasts a rich cultural tradition.

12. General view of the village and the harbour of Merichas.

• Agrokipio, a wooded area with eucalyptus Merichas 3

carved iconostasis and the hierarchical

19. Thyme honey is one of the island’s top quality products.

Useful phone numbers (+30)

Activities on the island • Rural Medical Clinic: 22810-31202

Trips around the island

Panagia 3 in it that date back to 1300. It is worth visiting the

27. Panagia Skopiani’s church located

Activities on the island

sandy beach of Livadi, at the beaches of Megalo

30. The White Tower, northwest of Koutalas.

31. Serifos’ Chora at sun-setting.

32. Chrysopigi’s monastery is one of Sifnos’ most famous sights.

Apollonia 1 (1894). The historic monastery of Agios Ioannis

Promenade in Apollonia according to tradition – by angels who celebrate

34. Traditional architecture is Apollonia’s strongpoint.

Useful phone numbers (+30)

Activities • Folk Art Museum:

42. A aerial view of Plaka.

Plaka 1 photographic material relating to everyday life.

44. The traditional syrmata in Klima.

Emporeios 9 Useful phone numbers (+30)

• Rural Health Centre: 22870-22.700 • Ecclesiastical Museum (Adamantas):

49. Impressive rocks made of petrified lava in Sarakiniko.

51. View of the village and harbour of Psathi.

Activities • Archaeological Museum: 22870-51.291

on the island • Folk Art - Maritime Museum:

Useful phone numbers (+30):

56. View of Chora.

60. Panoramic view of Stenies village, built in a verdant area.

64. The fortress-like tower of Agios Petros

Ammolochos 6 Must see:

69. Tis grias to pidima beach - the upright rock

Activities • Gavriotika, cultural events in Gavrio, during the

70. Kremmydes, an exquisite beach south of Ormos Korthiou.

• Korthiana, cultural events in Ormos Korthiou

• Police station (Gavrio): 22820-71.220

Activities • Rural Health Centre: 22823-60.000-1

on the island 22820-71.210

• To Kechrovouni Monastery (10th c.) in Arnados

Trips around the island

Kionia 3 Agios Ioannis Porto 5

83. Local silver coin

Useful phone numbers (+30)

87. Megali Kolympithra, one of the island’s top beaches.

89. Ermoupoli. Ano Syros and San Tzortzi’s church l

has been painted by El Greco.