Showing posts with label Greece. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Greece. Show all posts

Friday, March 1, 2013

Anafi Island

Overview

If you are seeking genuine, unspoilt Greek island life, Anafi is the one! Sail directly east from Santorini for about 90 minutes and you will hit this pumice blanketed, majestic former berth of the legendary Argonauts. Being one of the least accessible islands of the Cyclades, Anafi does not offer hotel accommodation, excursions by motorcoach or clubs. Instead, one can experience the delights of Agios Nikolaos, the small, cliff-backed port of arrival with its couple of tavernas and cafe and the truly unspoilt hilltop Chora, just a short bus ride (4 km) from Agios Nikolaos. With only a few tavernas, bakery, small shops and post office, your weekly visit to the out of town hypermarket at home will become a distant memory as you stroll the enchanting, narrow alleys of Chora. If you prefer not to travel by bus, a 1.5 km donkey track is still used by enthusiastic walkers.

A coastal walk scene
The string of beaches that run the length of the south coast of Anafi are nothing short of impressive. From the cliff-sheltered sands at Agios Nikolaos, a short walk leads east to Klissidi, 200 metres of gently shelving, fine sand, 2 tavernas and the location of our accommodation. Even more splendid are the dune backed sands of Roukounas, an hours walk east of Klissidi. Monastiri beach and the coves of Katalimatsa are even further east but all within walking distance.

If you are feeling lazy, a small excursion boat operates between Agios Nikolaos & Monastiri from where it is possible to walk to the Monasteries of Zoodogou Pyrgi & Panaghia Kalamiotissa. I hope that Anafi's unspoilt character is retained. In spite of a government building restriction order for the Chora I cannot help wonder how long the island will resist the onslaught of increasing numbers, especially as the island is now feted in a number of guide books. There is of course one simple answer. Go now before the situation changes! (Hurry up!!!)
Here the advices http://www.agencedevoyage.com

Things To Do
Caiques from Agios Nikolaos port to Monastiri beach

Picture Credit : http://www.helleniccomserve.com/anafi.html

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Folegandros Island | In History

Folegandros Island Map


First Occupants


Historians believe that the name derives from Folegandros son of Minos , the previous king of The island. The request by historians may be the discovery of ancient coins from the neighborhood, look around the coins discloses support Folegandros showed marked. The area of Folegandros offered like a refuge for individuals who've been exiled in the island of The island. There's another way of thinking around the title of island think that the title of Folegandros, from the Phoenician word for any rock-strewn land that's just what the island comes. Should you consider the good reputation for Folegandros, he finds out the concerns from Asia Minor were the very first occupants from the island. Then came the Cretans, who ruled the area of Folegandros using the emperor at the very top. Following the Cretans, the amount of Dori ended up being to follow. Archaeologists have discovered proof of inscriptions, that have been excavated came from here. This really is possibly probably the most important explanations why Folegandros not took part in the very first Athenian alliance, that was formerly held 478 BC. Archaeologists have found an inscription Folegandros island of Athens, a yearly fee, that was believed to become 2000 and never 1000 Attican drachmas, drachmas dug payment Sikinos compensated. This really is generous, the island was carefully associated with Athens. Throughout this time around, the occupants from the island would be the worship of Artemis and Apollo. Actually, you will find the remains of the temple of Artemis at Chora. The coins were excavated on Folegandros and copper would be the second and third century BC on one side, the coins represent the figure of Folegadros as the other is really a picture of the bull engraved.

Macedonian Rule

Way in 338 BC Philip the second, that was even the father of Alexander the Great, mastered Athens. Then, each one of the major islands of A holiday in Greece was underneath the rule of Macedonia. Sometimes throughout the first Century BC, once the Romans reigned supreme in Greece, Folegandros possess a place where individuals exiled.

Byzantine Period

Regrettably, very little historic details about the Byzantine period alternation in which all survived 800 years. Historians think that the area was in a condition of oblivion. Historians and archaeologists happen to be in a position to process the data to 1636. Folegandros was Exarchate from the Patriarchate and revered because it was area of the Archbishop of Sifnos. Constantinople was mastered by the Franks in 1204 through the Venetians as well as their entry within the Cyclades. The previous Venetian Markos Sanoudos emperor mastered the Aegean islands and creating the archipelago. Folegandros has additionally been incorporated within this archipelago. Kaiser Sanoudos ruled the islands with humbleness and political knowledge. He offered religious freedom to the people, making certain acquired their trust. Later Admiral Likarios "Decree Sanoudos island. Likarios handled by different emperors in the opinion, and the fans, created an alliance using the emperor Michael VII Palaeologus, who had been instrumental within the inclusion of Constantinople through the Latins effective. Miszil was the individual from the procedures from the military and Likarios together with his intelligent approach could Ios, Sikinos, Folegandros and Sifnos separated in the Duchy of Naxos. The islands didn't last lengthy using the Byzantines, as with 1307 the Spaniards mastered raiders Giannouli Dakoronia all. Dakoronia islands stored in captivity before the year 1464, once the Gozadinians assaulted and taken. Throughout this era, the area of Folegandros susceptible to wave attack turkish, and she wasn't any alternative, the area was abandoned by its occupants.

Turkish Rule

Following the conquest of Constantinople in 1453, suffered lots of difficulties Aegean. With the Franks, the Venetians had dethroned in the islands, the Sultan and France signed an agreement for that in 1536. The Turks were offered by Admiral Varvarosa, and only survived the islands, that have been not controlled through the Venetians, as the relaxation was looted by Varvarosa military. The islands Folegandros, Sikinos, Kimolos, Kythnos and just how were guaranteed. And so the Gozadinon empire had ruled the area for 4 decades. In 1617, the empire was banned by the Franks and also the Turks again dominated the island. It ought to be noted that Folegandros taxes compensated Kapetan be switched. In 1715 Kapoudan Passas Tzanoum Hotza Folegandros assaulted and subjugated the majority of the citizens in revenge specifically for the tacit support of a number of its occupants using the pirates who plundered the neighboring islands. Throughout the Turkish occupation from the consuls from the great forces were positioned around the island, too. In France They consul Georgakis Stais in 1770 reported both. The offices from the ruler and commander. Turkish War - For 4 years of turkish domination was damaged in 1770, when Russian. Anything was signed between Turkey and Russia, and so the islands were came back to Turkey. It was in 1828, after many battles, the citizens is the fact that Folegandros integrated free of the domination turkish and it has been for the rest of Greece. Folegandros can be used for the area of exile for political criminals to become 1900-1970. The exiled criminals were involved with helpful work and established friendly relations using the islanders. Political criminals were skilled in wood carving and frequently would take part in local festivals and festivals through the island.

Friday, September 21, 2012

Ios Island | Look it beautiful II

Agia Theodoti Beach

Agia Theodoti Ios: Following the path of Epano Kambos, northeast of the island, you will be directed Agia Theodoti, a beautiful seaside resort 14 km from Chora. The beautiful beach of golden sand and azure water is known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty.

This is an ideal swimming with spectacular sunsets. Agia Theodoti easily combine cosmopolitan excitement and relaxation in complete privacy. The shore of endless beach is a long clump of trees provides enough shade in the middle of the visitors. There are plenty of sun loungers and parasols to rent a traditional tavern and rooms.

To get to the beach and follow the road "Epano Kambos" windmills of Chora. Near Agia Theodoti are the remains of an ancient aqueduct and a Hellenistic tower.

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Ios Island | Look it beautiful I

Ios Beaches

With some of the best beaches in the Greek islands, Ios gets pretty popular in summer. Mylopotas and Ormos are the busiest and have many beach bars and watersports centres. Fortunately, although it receives many tourists, Ios still have secluded coves to relax.
 

Mylopotas beach

Mylopotas Ios: The famous beach of Ios is located 3 km from Chora. This is the main beach of the island where tourists action takes place. It is known for its long sandy beach stretching over 1 km and tourist facilities fantastic. The crystal clear waters are ideal for swimming and the main reason Mylopotas was repeatedly awarded the Blue Flag.
The sandy beach is covered by numerous sunbathing and umbrellas at reasonable prices, and many beach bars, where all the action happens. The beach is perfect for a range of activities that offer many water sports facilities for visitors, such as windsurfing and scuba diving. Despite the development of tourism in the region remains one Mylopotas beach with a beautiful natural landscape.
Mylopotas receives a large number of people throughout the day as the sun of the Cyclades, sunbathing in the golden sands and swimming in the emerald green water. You can reach Mylopotas by bus from Chora.

Manganari beach

Picture Credit: http://flickriver.com/photos/larahn/4813580525/
Manganari Ios: Manganari is one of the most beautiful beaches of Ios, located 23 km south of Chora. The beach itself has golden sand and crystal clear waters. Due to the remoteness and the long stretch of Chora, the beach is not disturbed by the noise of the crowd, the greater part of the day, while it offers an excellent opportunity to discover the natural environment.
The secluded cove is strong winds calm and offers protected swimming and snorkeling. The beach extends for several meters. Scenes from the famous film "Le Grand Bleu" is Manganari shot, revealing the exceptional quality of the water and beautiful scenery.





Thursday, June 14, 2012

Sikinos | Are we in Paradise?

Sikinos, a small pearl slowly and more visitors every year, but it's still one of the most pristine island in the Cyclades. They come here for peace and enjoy the relaxed life of its inhabitants. As tourism has not yet been reached Sikinos in the real sense, you will see that the island only speak a little English, if necessary, but they are very friendly and do their best to make you feel welcome. People make their own wine, but also because of the nature of the soil hard and sterile, It has often suffered from hunger and poverty.
sikinos-map
About the story: In the early years, Sikinos was called Inos, meaning the island of the wine. Archaeologists seem to be able to identify a temple to Apollo at Episkopi in the ancient world, but do not know too much about it. According to mythology, the island has changed its name to as King Thoas of Lemnos by the women of Lemnos had killed all mankind, was pursued. On Inos he married a nymph, and her son was named Sikinos. The Ionians settled on the island in the 10th century BC, and soon the Dorians arrived from the mainland. Venetians ruled the Cyclades in the 13th to the 16th Century, Sikinos was conquered by the Turks in 1566. The islanders have fought bravely in the war of independence, and was liberated in the 19th century.
Sikinos_church
You should see: The capital, Chora, is situated high up in the mountains. It really consists of two villages, an old and a new one. The old part is also called Chorio ("Village") and the new Kastro. Here, you'll find a small folklore museum and a quite impressive church from the 18th century. When the island was invaded by Turks or pirates, the islanders, who all lived in Kastro, used to pour boiling oil on the enemy. You can still see where the oil came out just outside the wall. Another sight is the nunnery Zoodochos Pigi (Life-giving Source) built in the 15th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Make sure you are appropriately dressed though before you enter: long skirt and covered shoulders for women, long trousers for men. Episkopi is also well worth a visit. No one knows for certain what the ancient ruins under the 7th century church were. The most common theory is that it was a temple dedicated to Apollo, and there is also an amphi-theatre here (I wonder why Dionysus hasn't been mentioned yet: he was the patron god of both wine and the theatre!).
Activity: The island is ideal for diving and fishing. You can also take long walks, bring your camera, the scenery is fantastic.There are no sandy beaches, here you will find great cliffs to jump when in - and get out. There is a boat to take you to the beach of Ag Georgios. It is not a party island, but you can enjoy the evening in taverns in Chora or in port. If you're lucky, people begin to sing and play traditional songs. There are some bars on the island as well. The food on the island consists of high quality, traditional Greek dishes. A few taverns in Chora, and some in the Aloprina port. Chora has a few shops, but they are small and the selection is limited. Here also have a local bus connecting Chora with the harbour. You can not rent a vehicle, but a boat can take you to the Ag Georgios beach.
Sikinos House
Getting there: The best way to get there is to fly to Santorini, then take the ferry. Sikinos is also connected to Athens from Piraeus, Naxos and Mykonos. It is a good idea to leave the island at least a day before departure since the boats are cancelled if it gets too windy, leaving you stranded here. You can find guide book from Lonely Planet (Travel Guide) via this site usshoptoo.com




Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Santorini | Where is Heaven

Santorini is one of those places in the world that will be permanently etched in your mind. Everywhere you look, you will find another photo opportunity. In essence, the land is the remains of an enormous volcanic explosion which destroyed the earliest settlements on what was once a single island. The day after the explosion has created what we see today, a caldera. All whitewashed, charming cottages cling to the cliffs of the circle, while the deep blue Aegean Sea wraps around the geological masterpiece, hundreds of feet below. Its spectacular physical beauty, with a dynamic nightlife, have made a single island of the big attractions for Europe.
santorini-map
Santorini is the last of the Cyclades islands in the South. The nearest islands are Ios, Folegandros, Sikinos in the North, Anafi and Amorgos to the East and Crete to the south.
We call this one, but it is actually a complex of five islands. Santorini (Thira) is the main island and around Thirasia Aspronisi and (parts of the ancient Stroggili) and two volcanic islands Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni.
It was an island called Stroggili (circle in Greek) until about 1645 BC, when the volcano erupted in the center of the island and Caldera was created. The two volcanic islands appeared much later from various eruptions starting 157 BC until the last in the 20th Century (1950).
Santorini i
santorini ii
  Many reasons have known this island and the world more or less everything that we have a picture of him (picture was that the agency used for Greece) have seen. There is a discourse on the relationship between Thira and mythical Atlantis. Also Jules Verne made Santorini famous watch, with its books "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea" and "Mysterious island," in which Captain Nemo and his crew break out of the volcano. It was one of the visitors and scientists who came to Thira during the eruptions of 1866 - 1870 and wrote the famous book soon after. It is really the mysterious island, the volcano's rules, the view of the caldera, the most spectacular on the planet!
santorini iii
Upon arrival in Santorini, you have three options for how to go to the island on foot, by cable car or donkey. The gateway to the sea in the city consists of 657 four-inch-high steps. This allows a natural workout stepper very well, especially on a sunny day! The cable car ride takes about three minutes ... but you could wait 15 minutes or more for your train. Your final option, riding on a donkey from the old port of Fira is one of the most authentic rustic experience, you will find in Santorini. These animals were once the only means of transportation supporting winding paths of Santorini. A typical speed limits will take about 30 minutes uphill. The more you get, the more points of view! It is truly an experience you never forget. Try it, then you'll see heaven on Earth!