Cyclades

The Cyclades are the most touted island cluster of the Aegean and includes some of the most beautiful Mediterranean islands! The spellbinding co-existence of white and blue in Cycladic architecture; the traditional way of life; the island songs; the warm hospitality; the stark landscape embroidered with deserted country churches; the stunning coasts; and the gorgeous beaches, all make a trip to the Cyclades a unique and unforgettable experience.

The islands’ total surface comes to 2,528 square kilometers. Of the 2,200 islands, small islands and islets of the cluster only 25 are inhabited today. The capital of the Cyclades is Ermoupolis on the island of Syros. The name of the cluster, “Cyclades”, means “the islands” and refers to the circle the islands form around the sacred island of Delos.

Greek mythology has it that the Cyclades were created by the God Poseidon, who turned the Cyclades nymphs into islands after the nymphs had provoked the god’s wrath.

The Cyclades have been inhabited since prehistoric times, while the Cycladic civilization flourished from 3200 BC to 1000 BC (early Cycladic, middle Cycladic, and late Cycladic periods) when the island cluster, due to its geographical position, became the hub of commerce and culture.

In the 16th c. BC the eruption of the Thera volcano put an end to the area’s growth. A few centuries later, the Dorians settled on the island. During the Byzantine period, the Cyclades belonged to the Aegean Theme, a Byzantine administrative division, and later were ruled successively by the Venetians and the Franks.

For many centuries the Cyclades were the focus of fierce pirate raids. The ravages the pirate raids caused were such that, during the Turkish Occupation, the islands were given permission to build their own ships so that they may face the pirates on equal terms.

After the 1830 Treaty of London, the Cyclades were joined with the Greek State.

Today, the Cyclades (Santorini, Mykonos, Delos, Paros, Antiparos, Naxos, Ios, Syros, Tinos, Milos, Kea, Amorgos, Sifnos, Serifos, Andros, Kythnos, Kimolos, Anafi, Folegandros, Sikinos, and Koufonisia) are visited by millions of Greek and foreign visitors who, in the radiant light and blue, crystal-clear sea waters of the Cyclades, are each looking for their own “enchanted holiday”.

10 reasons to visit Cyclades

1. The people

Cycladic people, simple, hospitable and smiling, give visitors who come in contact with them their deep wish to know more about them and their past that extends up to ten thousand years before current era. This past is so well preserved that the traveller can still enjoy its aspects on a carefree summer night at the flower filled spring hills of Anafi or at some beach of Irakleia or while relaxing by observing an autumn sunset from a balcony at Venice in Mykonos, or when gazing the shocking view of winter sea from Oia in Santorini.

2. The picturesque scenery of the Cycladic islands

If somebody has only met beaches of Cyclades, then he has only seen their one half. The other one is hidden in the traditional environment that has remained untouched despite the tourist growth of the last years. Even in the busiest of the islands one finds whitewashed churches, cobbled streets, flower filled squares, wild flowers, wild olive trees, vine yards, herbs and in general a ground full of fragrances. The houses are built in human dimensions. The landscape is dry, barren and hard, however poetic. It has inspired poets, painters, composers and architects.

3. The seas

A unique combination of white and light blue. Various and colourful bays with fishing boats and secluded or busy beaches. Spotless seas with transparent waters and many "blue flags" (European indication of clean beaches). Seas that nurture animals unique in the world such as the monk seal (monachus monachus). In the immense "Big Blue" you will meet dolphins that accompany your travel and seabirds that contribute to your splendid voyage of vacations by singing.

4. The particular light of the Cyclades

The unique sunlight in combination with the immense light blue sea surround both nature and people and shape their character. A unique light that has left its marks on poetry, painting, and music of known local creators.

5. The Mystery

In order to experience the magic of the past through discoveries of the early Cycladic culture, the medieval or later history of the islands. Could the Secrets of the Lost Atlantis be hidden in its past?

6. The tasty local dishes

Dishes that local housewives are innovatively creating with intelligence out of the very few products of the islands.

7. The poetry of Elytis that is hidden on each mountain ridge in this small world.

8. The amusement

Combining night life with relaxation. Quietness and isolation together in contrast to frantic parties.

9. The proximity of the islands

All islands are one neighbourhood. With an inflatable boat you can take a swim at Polyaigos and after that a drink at Milos, sail to Irakleia for coffee and after that to Schoinousa in 10΄ for a spaghetti with lobster dish. Even Paros and Naxos are so close to each other that one can easily "take it to the other side" for a game of backgammon.

10. The islands

There are 147 islands and rocky islands, populated and uninhabited. They are all offered for explorations and discoveries of a different lifestyle. Each one of them is by itself an enough good reason!

source: http://www.visitgreece.gr/portal/site/eot/

Beaches

Most beaches on Rhodes have been awarded the European Union blue flag - an environmental award for clean beaches and crystal clear waters and they are world famous like the Santorini beaches.

The Municipality of Rhodes

At the northern tip of Rhodes town is its cosmopolitan beach, one of the most photographed in Greece. It is known as Elli Beach. The towering hotels, Casino and Aquarium are ranked along the longest beach on the island dotted with multi-coloured umbrellas, many canteens and dive boards known by the name of trampolines.

The Municipality of Ialyssos

At Ixia and Ialyssos there are organized beaches with sand, pebbles and waters that suddenly deepen. They are excellent for those who love to swim. Due to the northerly winds which normally blow here they are ideal for lovers of windsurfing like in the east

Beaches of Kallithea

At the baths at Kallithea there is an organized beach with small bays where there pines stretch down to the sea, rock pools and stones sculpted by the sea. Each bay has deck chairs and a canteen.

In the same area are the sandy beaches of Reni and Kokkina.

At Faliraki is an extensive stretch of sand more than 5 km long. Here the major hotels dominate with their organized beaches and a range of water sports. There are also many quiet spots too. Faliraki has beaches to satisfy even the most demanding visitor. Katharas Bay which combines a sandy beach with precipitous rocks is perhaps the most picturesque bay on the island and the area is also known as Nudists Bay. At Traganou Beach the sea penetrates impressive caves that have been carved out of the living rock.

One can also get to Faliraki by boat from Mandraki port in Rhodes Town.

After Faliraki at Ladiko there is a small bay that has just above everything: fine sand, pebbles, trees on the surrounding hills, deckchairs, showers and taverns. Behind Ladiko is Anthony Quinn Beach. The well-known actor Anthony Quinn bought a large property in the area during the filming of "The Guns of Navarone" which today bears his name. Swamped in greenery reflected even in the water, this beach with its impressive colours is one of the most beautiful on the island. There is a small pier for boats while many yachts also drop anchor further out to sea.

Afandou beaches

At Afandou there is a large beach with sand and pebbles. The sea deepens suddenly here. There are a few canteens, kiosks, fish taverns and water sports on offer. Along the coastal road is Rhodes Golf Course. A mini train and buses connect the village of Afandou with the beach.

At Kolympia there is an organized beach with sand, fine pebbles and pedalos. Left and right of the main beach are hotels. In the natural harbour one can enjoy fresh seafood served up where the waves break on the beach.

Archangelos Beaches

Tsambika is one of the prettiest beaches on the island. Large, it has wide stretches of fine, golden sand. Many people of all ages and nationalities come here to swim in its clear, green waters. High above on an imposing rock is the Monastery of Panaghia Tsambika from whence the beach took its name.

Stegna is a beach ideal for all those looking for quiet. A picturesque harbour with sand and pebbles, water sports and a few taverns right at the waters edge and rooms to let.

Haraki is an idyllic small bay with umbrellas and other tourist facilities. The right-hand side of the beach has large pebbles while the left-hand side has sand only.

Shortly before Haraki lies Agathi, a small, beautiful sandy beach sheltered from the wind. It is ideal for camping having a cave at one end where one can camp out overnight.

Beaches in Lindos

At Kalathos is a large beach some 4 km long with sand and fine pebbles. At one point along the beach is a washed up shipwreck.

Vlicha is a large beach just before Lindos. Its crystal clear waters gradually get deep. The most important hotels in the area stand at the sides and in the centre of the beach.

Lindos is the best known beach on the island. The picturesque bay at Lindos is divided into two different stretches of sand. One on the left side of the beach and the other as one directly below the acropolis accessed along Palla St. and known as Palla Beach. Everywhere are deckchairs, umbrellas, taverns and crowds of people. The water here is very shallow and thus ideal for children.

Aghios Pavlos Beach in a sheltered bay has two stretches of sand, that on the right being organized while that on the left is ideal for those who prefer quiet. There is a chapel at the end. Pebbles, sand, rocks for diving and greenish waters are the characteristics of this beach.

The verdant coastal resort of Pefki has an organized beach and modern hotel complexes.

Sheltered Glystra Bay with its lovely windless beach lies close to Lardos. A small and charming beach it has fine sand and is preferred by all those who love quiet and calm.

South Rhodes beaches

Kiotari is a modern tourist resort along the length of an impressive, seemingly endless stretch of sandy beach. Holidaymakers here are usually families or couples looking for quite and good sea. It is worth stopping off for a swim at the wonderful beach with its clean, golden sands and trying the traditional dishes served at restaurants where attention is paid to detail.

Gennadi has sand and small pebbles as far as the eye can see but also the loudest beach parties on the island. The beach has two sides: intensity and quiet.

Aghios Pavlos has wet sand difficult to walk on, cedars and is usually deserted. It is the ideal place to spend some time alone. To get to the beach take the dirt track through the cypress trees opposite the Italian Monastery with its impressive bell and clock tower.

At the southernmost tip of the island is Prasonisi, wavy on the right and windless on the left, and surfers everywhere. On either side of the sandy causeway linking Prasonisi with Rhodes are small bays. Depending on wind direction there are waves on one side or the other. The island can be reached on foot or by swimming - this depends on the season and the water level. The sea on both sides often mingles covering the land and creating images of outstanding beauty. This is a paradise for surfing particularly in July and August when strong winds blow.

Fourni is a small quiet beach with pebbles and choppy seas, ideal for those who love authentic beauty. Along the beach one can also find wild bays and a single rock in the shape of a boat which dominates the view out to sea. Every so often sea turtles (Caretta caretta) appear on the beach.

Beaches of Attavyros

A short distance outside of Siana village is Glyfada beach, one of the less well known beaches on the island and ideal for those who enjoy exploring. Its many pines stretch down to the rocks along the coast and their reflection gives the waters a wonderful hue.

Skala Kameirou beach with its charming little harbour and fish taverns is ideal for fishing.

The Municipality of Petaloudes

A sandy beach, summer breezes, and specialized facilities all make Tholos an ideal place for fans of windsurfing.

source: http://www.visitgreece.gr/portal/site/eot/

Churches

Churches in Greece

Churches, places intended to meet the needs of Christian worshipping, are a characteristic and inseparable element of the Greek landscape. From austere, aisle-less chapels to magnificent cross-in-square types, churches follow specific architectural forms that were gradually established since the first centuries of Christianity and after. Their decoration -whether paintings, mosaic or other- always reflects Orthodox doctrine, following specific style trends and established iconographic programs.

Over the centuries, renowned architects, builders or painters have contributed to the construction and adornment of the Greek churches, many of which are now preserved monuments.

The oldest churches in Greece, the more significant being those in Thessaloniki, Nea Anchialos, Nikopolis, Athens and Corinth, date back to the Early Byzantine Period (4th - 6th Century A.D.).

During this period, important Ancient Greek temples, such as the Parthenon, the Erechtheion or the “Thission” in Athens, were converted into and functioned as churches, while many Christian churches were built near to or on the sites of known idolatry centers (e,g. Daphni, Elefsina, Delphi, Epidavros, Delos). Churches were also built on sites relating to persons or events that were important to Christians, such as the burial sites of martyrs.

Greek churches acquired an intensely local character during the Middle Byzantine Period (7th C. - 1204 A.D.) and were quite different from corresponding monuments in Constantinople. The more notable ones are situated in Attica, Viotia, Argolida, Mani, etc. Some of these are the katholicons or main churches of the monasteries they belong to.

The churches of the Late Byzantine Period (1204-1453) continue to follow traditional architectural models. Some of the most significant churches built during that period have been preserved in Arta, Veroia, Kastoria, Thessaloniki and Mystras Churches constructed after this period in regions under Frankish or Venetian occupation adopted quite a few western elements – architectural or decorative.

Churches built in Greece during the Ottoman occupation are especially austere. Exceptions to this were churches situated in areas under Venetian or generally Western influence (Crete, Ionian Islands). After the War of Independence, the economic recession did not allow the construction of ostentatious churches. An exception to this rule is the Metropolis of Athens, built in the middle of the 19th C. in order to function as the cathedral church in the capital of the newly-established Greek State. However, there was a new rise in ecclesiastical architecture from the end of the 19th C. and especially during the beginning of the 20th C.

source: http://www.visitgreece.gr/portal/site/eot/

Dodecanese

The island complex of Dodecanese in south-eastern Aegean is the sunniest corner in Greece. Twelve large islands and numerous smaller ones with crystal clear waters, sandy or pebbly beaches, important archaeological finds, imposing Byzantine and medieval monuments and unique traditional settlements are waiting to be discovered. If you are desperately seeking to discover lesser-known, unspoiled destinations visit Leros or Pserimos. But there is always Rhodes and Kos, larger and more cosmopolitan islands awaiting to offer you strong, and treasured memories. Just take your pick!

Welcome to Rhodes, a medieval treasure beautifully preserved throughout the centuries. Wander around its magnificent Old City, surrounded by medieval walls with seven gates, and admire the Palace of the Grand Master, the most awe- inspiring building in the whole island. Take a romantic stroll around the famous Street of the Knights and feel like a holy warrior in shining armour, or a noble princess. Peer into the historic past of the city with a visit to the Archaeological Museum.

Mandraki, the (ancient) harbour, is distinguished from the outer harbour by the 3 windmills and the fortifications at the end of the dock. During your quest, you will encounter some of the city’s most remarkable buildings: the National Theatre, the Courts, the City Hall and the Governors Palace. Visit stunning wonders of nature, such as the Seven Springs, the Valley of the Butterflies and Rodini Park, a green valley with running waters, small bridges and many peacocks, the trademark of the park! Get a deeper insight into the rich history of the island through your visit to the breathtaking Acropolis of Lindos and Ialissos as well as Ancient Kamiros, which were all powerful cities in ancient times. Well-preserved castles, like the ones of Kritinia and Monolithos are also waiting to be discovered!

Don’t forget to come back in spring to attend one of the most famous medieval festivals in Greece, the Sound and Light Festival, a visual extravaganza that you cannot afford to miss.

Kos. Sandy beaches, turquoise waters, lush vegetation, ancient and medieval monuments, tree-lined wide roads, large squares, parks, a superb city plan and an extensive bicycle-only routes network are the distinctive characteristics of the third largest island of the Dodecanese, Kos! The island’s trademark is its medieval castle (Nerantzia Castle) situated at the entrance of the port. Wander along the impressive avenue with the Palm Trees, or stroll around famous squares like Platanou Square and Eleftheria Square and admire legendary buildings, remains of the Italian rule. Interested in history? Pay a visit to the ancient city of Kos and observe important archaeological finds dating back to the 4th century. Did you actually know that you can sit under the plane tree where Hippocrates himself, the Father of Medicine, used to teach his students and examine his patients? The plane tree must be over 2,500 years old, and it is in fact the oldest in Europe! Don’t miss the 4th century Asclipiion, the Antimahia 15th century castle with its imposing battle tower, as well as one of the most scenic villages of Kos with a distinctive traditional character, Zia nestled amongst a dense cedar forest.

Kalymnos.Welcome the opportunity to visit the “island of the sea sponge harvesters”, an internationally known alternative tourism destination. Did you know that after WWII Kalymnos remained the only Greek sponge-harvesting industry supplying both domestic and international markets with sea sponges? The first picture to see upon arriving on the island is Pothia, both the capital and the port of Kalymnos, spreading amphitheatrically on two hills. Visit among others the castle of Chrissoheria and the Archaeological Museum. Set out on a day trip to the traditional settlement of Horio, the former capital of the island, and admire interesting Byzantine monuments (like the Great Castle). The early-Christian settlement at Elinika is a must-see, since it is perhaps the best preserved settlement in Greece. A perfect occasion to visit the island would be the International Climbing Festival in May, a unique festival that will thrill the action fans! The culinary enthusiasts should taste mouth watering delights, such as sweet smelling thyme honey, juicy tangerines, homemade mizithra cheese, delicious sea-dried lobster tail, and sea ray preserved in sea water!

Pserimos means “looking for the ideal destination for serene, relaxing holidays”. Enjoy sandy beaches with crystal clear waters, swim in paradise bays (like the small bay of Vathi), rent a boat and sail around the island’s beaches, follow several hiking routes, participate in local fairs (the most famous ones take place on 15th August) or go scuba diving and climbing. Whether you are looking for an action packed holiday or a relaxing visit, you will be quite astonished by the choices on offer on such a small island!

Telendos. Did you know that this tiny beautiful island formed part of Kalymnos in antiquity, but was separated in 554 AD due to a devastating earthquake? Today there is only one small village on the island. Follow walking paths through the dense pine forest on the south of the island, where also ruins of Byzantine residencies still stand. Swim in sun-drenched beaches (like Plaka, Potha, and Paradise), go scuba diving and explore the ancient city sunk between Kalymnos and Telendos or go hiking, climbing, wind surfing, canoe-kayaking and spear fishing! You can reach Telendos by boat departing from the cove of Mirties at Kalymnos.

Karpathos. An island blessed with an abundance of streams, pine-tree forests, vineyards, olive groves, rocky caves (which are actually home to monachus monachus) and mountainous landscapes, Karpathos is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and lovers of deep-rooted tradition. The villages of the island seem like open folklore museums, whereas their inhabitants are still dressed in old traditional costumes, and speak their local, old dialect. The rich folklore tradition of villages, such as Olympos and Mesohori, will weave a powerful spell over you. Even if you are a wind surfing fan, “anemoessa” Karpathos (“she of the many winds”, according to Homer) is the perfect place to exercise your favourite sport. Visit also Karpathos during Easter or Carnival time and participate with the locals in celebrations that will remain in your memory forever!

Tilos. Ragged mountainscape, densely forested ranges and hilly vistas, verdant valleys –home to four hundred species of flowers and herbs–, and habitat of rare species of birds. These are the ingredients of an unparalleled destination, a huge ecological park protected by international treaties. This is Tilos! Visit Meyalo Horio, the island’s capital, with its imposing stone houses and narrow alleys. The view from the medieval castle (built in the location of ancient Tilos) that stands imposingly at the top of the hill will certainly take your breath away.

Leros. Welcome to the island of Artemis, the goddess of forests and hunting, according to mythology. If you are looking to spend peaceful holidays in a pure, dreamy environment with pine trees, olive groves and low plains with freshwater streams, then Leros is your destination! Swim in azure seas, admire exquisite works of Italian architecture in Ayia Marina, the capital of the island, wander around centuries-old magnificent castles (like Brouzi and Castle of Panayia), or go scuba diving to explore ship wrecks lying on the seabed since the Second World War. Don’t forget to come back in Carnival time when ancient old customs revive.

Patmos. The “island of the Apocalypse” or “Jerusalem of the Aegean” welcomes you! Patmos is quite popular amongst pilgrims since in one of the island’s caves John the Theologian, one of Christ’s disciples, wrote the “Book of Revelations”. The stunning beauty of Hora, a carefully preserved medieval settlement with narrow, maze-like alleys and stone-built houses will take your breath away. Don’t miss the imposing fortified monastery of Saint Ioannis and the Theologian Apocalypse cave! Visit Patmos at Easter, when deeply religious and spiritual celebrations are held throughout the Holy Week.

Arki and Marathi. Visit a dreamy cluster of islands east of Patmos with sparse vegetation, old whitewashed houses, and cute little tavernas. Get into a boat and sail around Marathi, another small island with a beautiful beach covered with lentisks and tamarisk (salt cedar).

Astipalea is the westernmost island of the Dodecanese, located at the point where the Dodecanese meet the Cyclades. This is the reason why in Astipalea the characteristics of both island complexes blend together to create the island’s uniquely varied scenery. Visit Hora, the island’s capital and port, one of the most picturesque settlements of the Aegean. At the hilltop stands imposingly Hora’s castle, surrounded by small houses with whitewashed walls, blue doors and wooden balconies overlooking the open blue sea below.

Kassos. Despite its small size, Kassos was once a mighty maritime and commercial power. The well-preserved mansions that still stand in Fre, the island’s capital and main port, reflect today this former grandeur. Take a stroll around Bouka, an old pirate lair, with moored small fishing boats, traditional coffee shops and its old lighthouse. Don’t forget to visit Armathia, the largest of the islands around Kassos, where you can find some excellent beaches, like Marmara and Karavostassi!

Simi. There are many reasons to visiting Simi apart from experiencing its unique cosmopolitan atmosphere, and wandering around its remarkable neo-classical settlement. Many visitors, for instance, come here to venerate the miraculous icon of Archangel Michael kept at the monastery of Panormitis, one of the most significant monasteries of the Dodecanese. Alternatively, you can come to Simi in summer to attend the famous Simi Festival, which includes among others classical music concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions.

Halki. Enjoy peaceful holidays in the “Island of Peace and Friendship”, where young people from all over the world gather here every year for their annual meeting! The town of Halki or Niborio, the island’s capital, is listed as a traditional settlement and it is amphitheatrically built overlooking the clear-blue sea, whereas impressive neoclassical mansions reveal the prosperity the island enjoyed in the past.

Nissyros. Take the opportunity to visit an unspoiled destination formed by volcanic eruptions. It is rather impressive that today Nissyros is still an active volcanic centre together with the volcanic centers of Milos, Santorini and Methana! Actually at the village of Nikia there is a “Volcanic Museum”, the only one of its kind in Greece, exhibiting samples from the most characteristic volcanic rocks of Nissyros. Strolling along the narrow streets of beautiful Mandraki, the island’s capital and port, is a richly rewarding experience. Don’t forget to observe its colourful houses which are actually built with hewn slabs of andesite and dacite (volcanic material)!

Lipsi is the largest island belonging to a cluster of many others islets. It forms part of the Natura Network. It is an ideal destination for relaxing, and serene holidays. Here, both landscape and people will definitely help you find inner peace and tranquility. Lipsi is also surrounded by countless uninhabited islets ideal for bird watching.

Agathonissi is the northernmost island of the Dodecanese; it consists of three large traditional settlements (Agios Georgios, Megalo Horio and Mikro Horio). Agathonissi has a significant and vulnerable ecosystem rendering it an important habitat of rare bird species. Together with the nearby islands it belongs to the Natura Network as well.

Kastelorizo lies at the easternmost end of Greece, a stone’s throw away from the Turkish coast. Its main settlement is filled with cheerfully painted houses of exceptional architecture, awe-inspiring churches and picturesque alleys. Taste the island’s traditional sweets katoumari and strava, and organise a boat excursion to Galazio Spileo, the largest and most spectacular sea cave in Greece. Don’t forget to visit the nearby legendary island of Ro where the famous “Lady of Ro” Despina Achladioti used to raise the Greek flag every day.

source: http://www.visitgreece.gr/portal/site/eot/

Religion

Religion in Greece

Seeking the majesty of the divine in Greece.

Religious tourism is not a new idea, something thought up recently. It is the oldest, the most important form of “tourism” in the history of Mankind. Every society has produced members whose quest was to commune with the divine. Religious travel has its roots in the pilgrimages of a bygone age. Since antiquity the desire to embark on a journey for religious purposes has inspired Greeks and non-Greeks to make their way to religious sites throughout Greece. From the earliest times it has been a custom of the Greek people to express their religious sentiments, their deep faith and their reverence for God, a key characteristic of the Orthodox faith for 2000 years.

There is a direct link between religion as a cultural phenomenon and tourism. Religion in terms of tourism is based on a clear cultural bedrock of tradition. Greeks and foreign visitors are stunned by Greece’s majestic churches of the Byzantine era, countless rural churches and metochia (monastery grounds and gardens), sacred places of pilgrimage and religious sites, all of which inspire awe. Whether they are here for religious purposes or purely for pleasure, visitors to mainland Greece and its islands are amazed by the countless number of sites of religious devotion and major references to the divine. Visitors have the chance to see buildings and religious sites related to various dogmas and religions, which all co-exist in a state of ongoing dialogue and thus highlight the rare historic and cultural mosaic of Greece.

Some of Greece’s most important religious centres include the monastic community of Mount Athos, the impressive monasteries of Meteora the Cave of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of Saint John Theologos on Patmos, the places where the Apostle Paul preached, and the pilgrim destinations of the Madonna (Panayia) of Tinos, the Panayia Soumela, the Panayia Ekatontapiliani, etc.

Such sites, with their divine immanence or their representation of preternatural forces, exist by the happiest of consequences side by side with the splendours of Greek nature. Every rock, every cave, every mountain and every island - each of them offers a route to the divine. A religious trip offers a journey through a different side of Greece, through expressions of religious sentiment over the centuries. Such a journey is, in effect, a trip through time, a journey that everyone should undertake at some time.

All through the year, Greece plays host to religious festivals with customs and traditions that have become deeply rooted over the centuries. These festivals, some local, some celebrated all over Greece, offer a chance for merrymaking and an escape from the dull monotony of everyday life. Fortunate indeed is the visitor who ends up as a spectator at such popular religious events. Without even realising it, he will soon find he is not just a spectator, but also a participant!

The greatest of all these celebrations in Greece is Easter, with its host of religious events and popular traditions each spring (in Corfu, Patmos, Skiathos, Leonidio, etc.). The “summertime Easter”, the Assumption of the Virgin Mary on 15th August, is similarly spectacular and is especially popular in this country. The weather at this time of year helps, of course, and many festivals take place the length and breadth of the country. Many major Orthodox saints who play an important role in the Orthodox calendar of saints, often patron saints of different cities or countries, are also joyously celebrated on the day which is devoted to them, with major festivals or something on a smaller scale taking place in their honour.

Thousands of visitors are interested in seeing Byzantine or post-Byzantine works of art with a religious theme, such as icons, murals and mosaics, cultural tributes from the past which pay testimony to dedication and tradition and to the tenacious relationship between Art and Religion. The major Byzantine museums in Athens, Thessaloniki, Veria, Ioannina, Kastoria, etc., will stun you with the richness and quality of their sublime collections of exhibits.

Whether you come on a pilgrimage or to discover places and monuments that bring us closer to the divine aspect of our existence, come and visit these special places in Greece, where Man once raised his eyes up to search for the Divine Light. And then discovered it within his own soul.

source: http://www.visitgreece.gr/portal/site/eot/

Ancient Kamiros of Rhodes

Whenever you visit any part of Greece you know you are in with a chance of seeing some ancient ruins or signs that many other people have been there centuries before you.

This is indeed the case when you visit Rhodes. One of the most fascinating sights of all is probably not the best known. We’re talking about ancient Kamiros – and yes, you can still see a lot of the ancient signs of life today.

This was a major force in Rhodes in ancient times and although only ruins are left today, it is easy to imagine what it would have been like in times gone by. The amazing thing is that you can see lots of foundations and lower levels of walls and outlines of buildings here. These enable you to build the rest up in your mind, and walk along the same paths that were used by ancient peoples living in Rhodes.

You will find Kamiros on the north western shores of Rhodes. The high times of Kamiros were back in the 6th century, when it even had its own currency. Over time though things changed, and it was not the success it had once been. The place was abandoned and left to go to ruin, eventually being covered and forgotten as the centuries gathered pace.

It would not be until 1929 that Kamiros was uncovered once more, and although it took several years archaeologists were able to eventually reveal the remains of Kamiros to the world. Their painstaking work, care and attention have made it possible to see what it would have been like to live here.

You will certainly be amazed at the scale of the ruins you will find. Some pillars remain in areas, but in others nothing more than a few levels of stone are there to indicate where walls and windows would once have been. You can imagine what it would have been like to live there all those centuries ago, making olive oil and trading figs in a bustling marketplace.

Kamiros may not be the successful and thriving town it once was, but it still has a lot to show and tell us.

Kalithea Springs of Rhodes

There are many areas in Rhodes that are worth visiting, and one of them must surely be the Kalithea Springs. These are quite famous on the island and have a long history you are sure to find interesting.

The original opening of the springs took place way back in 1929, and since then they have been enjoyed by lots of people from many countries. Those in Rhodes certainly know the history and the value of the springs, and they are an important tourist attraction for those visiting the island every year.

The springs were thought to be beneficial in helping to alleviate the symptoms of many physical ailments. They were used by many people who were hoping to find a natural remedy for some kind of medical problem. Today they don’t work any more but the springs have been regenerated and worked on to provide an incredibly attractive monument to visit. The circular building has white washed walls and a mosaic floor that is quite stunning to see.

The pattern of the floor fits in nicely with the circular building, and as you look closer you will see just how many pebbles there are which go to make up the total design. It is really quite something to see.

Even though the springs themselves are no longer available to bathe in, you are not far from the sea and the delightful beach you will find there. There is a small beach right below the baths that you can bathe in if you wish, and it is often used by people who are visiting the area. This is essentially a rocky cove that offers some good opportunities to swim and snorkel, and you will be rewarded with seeing lots of fish and other delights beneath the waves too.

Even though the Kalithea Springs are no longer in operation, you will still benefit from seeing them as they are quite spectacular to look at. Grab your camera and commit some of it to more than just your memory, as it really is quite an amazing area to visit.

Best beaches in Rhodes

Lots of people come to Rhodes because of its beaches. There are other reasons too of course, but this is undoubtedly one of the main attractions. And one of the most popular beaches of all on the island is Faliraki Beach. Before you book your holiday in Rhodes it will pay dividends to find out why.

Faliraki is situated on the north eastern end of the island. It is the most popular beach the island has and because of this it is very well set up for tourists in lots of different ways. For example if you love your water sports just as much as you love lazing around on the beach, you will feel right at home here. With windsurfing and jet skiing available among other things, you will love every minute of your time on the beach and beyond it.

It’s also a nice place to go if you simply love to sunbathe. As you might expect from the best beach on the island, you’ll have sun beds and umbrellas to hire if you need them. Arriving earlier in the day will net you a great spot for the day, but wherever you end up staking out your spot you won’t be far from beach bars and food places to grab a bite to eat at lunch time.

You can expect it to get noisier and livelier when the sun goes down though, as this is a key area for partying the night away as well. If you are visiting with a young family you should think about staying somewhere slightly further out of town, to ensure you get a quieter evening if you want it.

If you are part of a couple and you want somewhere where you can enjoy a nice romantic meal in the evening, Faliraki is ideal for this too. Not every establishment is of the loud and raucous variety, so you won’t be disappointed if it is a romantic holiday you are after.

In short, you can’t really go wrong when you elect to stay in or near Faliraki. It has everything you could ever wish for.

Rhodes island Ancient and Modern

Rhodes is well known as a Greek island with a history that stretches back for thousands of years. There is ample evidence that the island was inhabited back in Neolithic times (basically that means a long, long time ago, for those people who are not familiar with their ancient history).

This brings forward an interesting point of view to remember whenever you are thinking of booking a trip to Rhodes. There is now a wonderful combination of ancient and modern sights on the island and it is up to you how many sights of each type you want to see.

Some people undoubtedly visit Rhodes to enjoy their clubs, bars and restaurants. You will no doubt want to enjoy a taste of one or more of these yourself, depending on the kind of holiday you have in mind. Modern Rhodes is well known for its tourism and it caters extremely well for people in this respect.

But the truth is that wherever you go in Rhodes there are signs of the ancient times still there to see. It is unfortunate that an earthquake back in 226BC was responsible for felling the great Colossus of Rhodes – an icon that was known to be one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World. It is thought that the entrance to the harbour is where the Colossus once stood, although no one can be sure of this. You can go there and see the platform on either side of the entrance though, and wonder whether it did once stand there long before you or I even existed.

The ruins of Kameiros also hark back to times long before we existed. This site dates back to the Bronze Age so again you will have a chance to look back at another portion of history.

In a sense Rhodes is a living history lesson. There is so much here to see and appreciate about the island in centuries gone by. It would be a shame not to see at least some of it while you are there on holiday. You might go home with a whole new appreciation of Rhodes.

The Knights avenue

One integral part of the Old Town is the so called Avenue of the Knights. This is more commonly known today as Ipoton Street, but somehow Avenue of the Knights sounds more dramatic and indeed romantic as well. The knights of old once lived here and so the street is often named after them. The avenue runs from the east to the west of the Old Town, and it is quite amazing to look at.

It could be said to be quite plain in some ways; there are doorways and windows peppering its length on both sides, and it is paved with cobbles from top to bottom. But for all its plainness it is also quite striking and indicative of a time in history in this part of Rhodes that is long since gone. It has been restored in the past, around a century ago, and as such it really doesn’t look a lot different at the beginning of the 21st century than it did at the turn of the 20th century.

Modern businesses and offices now take up much of the Avenue of the Knights, but you would not realise this to look at it from the exterior. It is this eerie and forbidding tone of the street that makes it a must see for anyone visiting Rhodes and the Old Town. You would be amazed at how striking it is in person and in photos, and you will definitely want to take plenty of those.

Of course you have the rest of the Old Town to explore as well, and you should certainly make the effort to do so. But this is going to be just one part of your trip to the town – and walking up the Avenue of the Kings to reach it is the best way to make its acquaintance.

Islands

Greek islands

The islands are the main characteristic of Greece’s morphology and an integral part of the country’s culture and tradition. Greek sovereign land includes 6,000 islands and islets scattered in the Aegean and Ionian Seas, of which only 227 islands are inhabited. This is a truly unique phenomenon for the European continent.

The Greek Archipelago takes up 7,500 km of the country’s total 16,000 km coastline, offering a highly diversified landscape: beaches stretching over many kilometers, sheltered bays and coves, sandy beaches with sand-dunes, pebble beaches, coastal caves with steep rocks and dark colored sand typical of volcanic soil and coastal wetlands.

Many of these Greek beaches have been awarded the blue flag under the Blue Flags of Europe Program, providing not only swimming, but also scuba diving, snorkeling, water skiing, sailing and windsurfing.

Some of the oldest European civilizations developed on the Greek islands (Cycladic, Minoan civilizations, etc.), so therefore the islands have unique archeological sites, a distinctive architectural heritage and the fascinating local traditions of a centuries-old and multifaceted civilization.

Moreover, 58.5% of the country’s hotel units and 62.6% of hotel beds are found on the islands (2003 data). This data, in conjunction with ideal climate, safe Greek waters and small distances between ports and coasts, have made the Greek islands extremely popular among Greek and foreign visitors.

Most of the islands are found in the Aegean Sea and are divided into seven groups (from north to south):

The Northeastern Aegean Islands

Agios Efstratios, Thasos, Ikaria, Lesbos, Limnos, Inouses, Samos, Samothrace, Chios, Psara.

The Sporades

Alonissos, Skiathos, Skopelos, Skyros

Evia

Islands of Argosaronic

Angistri, Aegena, Methana, Poros, Salamina, Spetses, Hydra.

The Cyclades

A group of 56 islands, with the most important being Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Ios, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Santorini, Serifos, Sikinos, Sifnos, Syros, Tinos, Folegandros, as well as the “Minor Cyclades” comprising Donousa, Irakleia, Koufonisia and Schinousa.

The Dodecanese

Astypalaia, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kasos, Kastelorizo, Kos, Lipsi, Leros, Nisyros, Patmos, Rhodes, Symi, Tilos, Chalki.

Crete

The Ionian Sea has only one island complex:

The Ionian Islands

Zakynthos, Ithaca, Corfu, Kefallonia, Lefkada, Paxi, and Kythira which is situated opposite the southern Peloponnese (Lakonia), the biggest islands in Ionian Sea, constitute the Eptanissa.

Antipaxi, Ereikoussa, Kalamos, Kastos, Mathraki, Meganissi, Othoni, Skorpios, Strofades are smaller islands in Ionian Sea.

The islands of Gavdos (situated south of Crete), Elafonissos (in the Gulf of Laconia) and Trizonis (in the Gulf of Corinth), do not forming a group but are still of unparalleled natural beauty.

source: http://www.visitgreece.gr/portal/site/eot/

Nightlife

Rhodes nightlife

Night outings on Rhodes, particularly during the summer months, begin early in the evening and last until dawn. There are countless choices and all musical tastes are catered for. Rhodes by night competes with many other tourist areas of Greece like the nightlife in Mykonos, Kos, Santorini or Athens

Coffee shops with well-made aromatic coffee, fresh sweets and snacks, bars with a warm atmosphere and suitable lighting with Greek or foreign music covering jazz to ethnic and rock and bars with calmer music for the romantic at heart are all available.

There are clubs with loud music for dancing the night away and nightclubs with love popular and traditional performances. Of course there is no shortage of places with rembetiko music.

New Town nightlife: Casino: The casino is located in the famed Rhodes Hotel at G.Papanikolaou street, right on the beach front. One can play roulette, black jack and casino poker while 300 slot machines are available. Entry to the gambling area is only permitted to persons aged over 23. Around the same area you will find all kinds of restaurants and bars, some of the bars and restaurants along the street are made especially for several nationalities from Scandinavia like Norway, Finland, Denmark et.c ,with their signs written in Norwegian, Finish and Danish.

Another jolly mile bursting of restaurants, pubs, and cafes packed from the package tourism masses located in the triangle between Griva, Mandilara and Iroon Polytehneiou streets. Do not expect to enjoy a Greek island's atmosphere there, alternatively you can enjoy Greek cuisine in the grill restaurants and the taverns inside the Mandraki market. Next to Mandraki right behind the taxi station inside the old market place are a couple of taverns with live Greek music. Another place with live Greek "tourist music" is at Neorion restaurant bar at the main entrance to the Marina towards the windmills before the main gate to the Old town.

For coffees, snacks ice creams and drinks the Aktaion one of the oldest cafes of Rhodes town is one of the the most recommended and popular among the locals place. Aktaion witch is run by the Rhodes municipality has kept its style for decades and its clientele are mostly Greeks, in its huge verandas you can enjoy the deep shadow of large trees and the fresh breeze from the marina of Rhodes with the wonderful views to the windmills and the yachts. Ideal for families with a children playground Aktaion is the jewel of Mandraki. Walking down the seafront towards the beach is located the Music club Elli one of the oldest music clubs of Rhodes with live program including Greek and international music.

One of the most popular Disco in Rhodes town is the Disco Babylon on the port area of Kova, the music includes mostly great sounds from the 70's and 80's.

Old town: In the Old town of of Rhodes you will find numerous Cafeterias, fast food, souvlaki and Gyros shops, Greek taverns and restaurants. Around Evdimou square and along the Socratous street are most of them. In Ipokratous (Hippocrates) square the Taverna Plaka offers live Greek music while in the bar Panorama you can enjoy cocktails, view and music from the bar on the second floor. The steps of the Kasteloni the old Venetian building just behind the fountain of Hippocrates square is probably the best place to enjoy a take away souvlaki with a can of beer (that you can buy from a souvlaki shop near by) hearing the music from the surroundings and watching the tourist crowds passing by, and all that for free (except the souvlaki and the beer).

Finally if you want to enjoy the best home made Mousaka in Rhodes you must take a taxi and go to Jordan's bar next to Kalithea beach and Spa, one of the best places for a day outing.

Destinations

Destinations in Greece

Greece is much more than we were taught at school and than we have seen in the photos with beautiful sunsets and golden sandy beaches.

In Greece, you are in a crossroad of colors and cultures; you feel the strength of History and the warmth of the southern extremity of Europe and you discover the evolutionary course of thought, influence and experience.

You are in a country with a uniquely affluent historical past, whose people, however, do not rest on their laurels and are not stuck in that past.

You are in a country that, though statistically small, is huge in its diversity. You see landscapes that have given thousands of postcard images but remain incredibly vivid and of unrivalled beauty.

Greece is a country of beautiful contradictions, a constant journey in time, from the present to the past and back again. Walk through the olive groves, through archaeological sites; move to clusters of islands, go through beaches and mountains and explore the breathtaking scenery.

In Greece the succession of images is not just our imagination; it is a sheer reality.

Greek islands

The islands are the main characteristic of Greece’s morphology and an integral part of the country’s culture and tradition. Greek sovereign land includes 6,000 islands and islets scattered in the Aegean and Ionian Seas, of which only 227 islands are inhabited. This is a truly unique phenomenon for the European continent. The Greek Archipelago takes up 7,500 km of the country’s total 16,000 km coastline, offering a highly diversified landscape: beaches stretching over many kilometers, sheltered bays and coves, sandy beaches with sand-dunes, pebble beaches, coastal caves with steep rocks and dark colored sand typical of volcanic soil and coastal wetlands.

Find out more about Greek islands.

Main Cities

Greece is the ideal place for city tourism. Discovering the soul of a Greek city is much more than a quick tour around its monuments and sightseeing. Greek cities are full of possibilities, easily accessible and visitor friendly around the year, offering a great sum of modern facilities and choices. Greek cities combine excellent conference facilities with unique museums, archaeological sites, shopping and nightlife.

Think of the perfect city break. And then visit a Greek city, where it will be planned and organized for you!

Find out more about Main cities in Greece.

source: http://www.visitgreece.gr/portal/site/eot/

Aghios Ioannis Theologos Monastery

Spiritual sites in Patmos: the holy Cave and the Monastery of St. John

The island of Patmos owes its fame to St. John the Evangelist, the most beloved disciple of Christ, and to the monastery, built during the 11th century AD to honour the evangelist’s name. The monastery has always been the “heart” of the island. A small settlement, called Hora (Chora), started to develop around the monastery and the inhospitable island grew to become the jewel of civilization in the Archipelagus.

As it is well known throughout Christianity, St. John was exiled in Patmos where he wrote “The Apocalypse” (Revelation) with the help of his disciple Prohorus, in a cave. The Apocalypse is considered the most difficult semantically book of the New Testament. Its main idea is the Second Coming of Christ as a fair Judge and the fight between good and evil, light and darkness, the Church and the Antichrist, leading to the definite triumph of the Church and Christ. The Cave became the holiest site of the island.

Tradition kept alive the memory of the presence of St. John by indicating the spots on the rocky surface of the cave where he rested his head, where his hand held the rock and where the parchment was set and the crack on the rock where the voice of God was heard from.

The arrival of the monk Christodoulos at the island of Patmos took place in 1088 AD, and was due to the successive pressure of the Turks (already having invaded Asia Minor in 1071 AD) and the existence of an organized orthodox monastic community in Miletus. The monk, a man of vision, chose Patmos because it was a “place rough and miserable, but suitable for spiritual fruits”. He ensured the issuing of “golden” decrees by the emperor Alexios Komnenian the first providing the island with benefits. Since the uninhabited island was repeatedly ravaged by the Turks, the monks emphasized on the fortifications of the monastery which gradually acquired its heavy, austere form and high towers wreathed with crenellations. At the same time works of great intellectual significance were slowly but steadily gathered in the monastery proving the social status and education of the abbots. Icons, manuscripts, sculptures, frescoes are the best indicators of the monastic spirituality of Patmos, housed today in the museum.

The center of the monastic complex is the inner courtyard diverting the light from above, while a number of arches are erected towards the sky enhancing the beauty of the limited space. The old katholicon, dedicated to St. John, and the chapel of Virgin Mary were built around the central courtyard too. The chapel is famous for its frescoes (12th century AD) that indicate a close connection to the workshops of Constantinople and strongly prove the high level of spirituality in a place so far away from the Byzantine centers. The structure of the fortification resembles to a labyrinth. Chapels, cells, magazines, cisterns, warehouses and the refectory, the symbolic space of the communal life of the monks, and many other secondary rooms have formed a creative spiritual nucleus for Asia Minor and the Archipelagus. The accumulation of treasures never ceased. All this wealth can be witnessed today in the collection of treasures of the monastery, especially the Byzantine manuscripts. The Byzantine and post Byzantine icons, documents and holy relics have made Patmos great pilgrimage of the East. Its glory and fame have spread throughout the world.

Author: Ioli Vingopoulou

Translated by Helen Premeti

Licensed Tourist Guides

source: http://www.visitgreece.gr/portal/site/eot/

Arts

Rhodes Arts and Museums

Arts

The Municipality of Rhodes

The Museum of Modern Art: NESTORIDION MEGARON: The museum hosts a standing exhibition of modern Greek art and sculpture from the 20th century with works by Konstantinos Maleas, Konstantinos Parthenis, Spyros Vasiliou, Giannis Tsarouchis, Nikos Engonopoulos, Georgos Bouzianis and the younger artists Alekos Fasianos, Dimitris Mytaras and Kostas Tsoklis. It is a record of the history of Modern Greek art from its greatest artists.

On the 1st floor is the Modern Greek art exhibition up to 1960 with the subjects being landscapes, still life, portraits and scenes from daily life.

On the 2nd floor is a series of works from 1960 to the present day on the subjects of modern visual concerns and showing a range of styles.

Tours and educational programmes are available.

Address: Gavril Haritou Sq., Ekato Hourmadies

The Municipal Art Gallery - Museum of Modern Greek Art: A definite port of call after strolls around the narrow streets of the Old Town is the Municipal Art Galley which exhibits part of the collection of Greek engravers while also displaying periodic exhibits of renowned Greek and foreign artists.

Address: 2 Symis Sq., Old Town

Modern Art Centre - Museum of Modern Greek Art: The centre hosts the annual visual arts programme MOTER which supports and shows new artists from all over Greece. It includes works from painting and small sculptures to digital art, video art, photography, installations and other constructions.

Address: 179 Sokratous St. Old Town

The Municipal Εpavlis: This is a traditional building with a regal garden which has been laid out and operates as a cultural centre with a library, music department and exhibition space.

Museums

The Municipality of Rhodes

The Palace of the Grand Masters is the most imposing building in Old Town. Many rooms are adorned with early Christian mosaics from across the Dodecanese, ancient statues and imposing antiques and furniture. The room with an exact copy of the famed Laocoon sculpture is worth a visit. On the ground floor of the building is an archaeological exhibition laid out in line with a modern approach to museum display. The exhibits are presented in thematic units (early Christians and the Paleo-Christian years, economy, daily life, defence and administration and so on) while maps and audiovisual material provide the visitor with a strong image of the island's history from antiquity to the middle ages.

Address: Ippoton St., Old Town

Archaeological Museum: This museum is housed in the medieval Knight's Infirmary building. Construction was completed in 1489 by the famed Grand Master D'Aubusson. The building has two floors and an inner courtyard surrounded by cloisters and on all four sides. In the courtyard one's glance will surely be drawn to the Hellenistic statue of the lion and to the piles of stone catapult missiles, a reminder of the tens of sieges which the town endured. Along the length of the cloisters one can see numerous inscriptions, grave stelae and round altars. The museum exhibits are located on the first floor. In its small rooms overlooking the courtyard are grave finds from ancient Ialyssos and Kameiros from the Geometric, Archaic and Classical periods, vessels, statuettes, jewellery and metal objects. On the side of the facade in the large "patient's hall" one can see grave slabs from the period of rule by the Knights (14th - 16th century) and heraldic shields. The most interesting rooms are those housing the sculpture collection with works from the Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods. Two headless Archaic kouros statues from Kameiros (550-530 BC), a grave stele of Krito and Timarista (420-410 BC) and the famed grave stele of Kalliarista (350 BC) stand out.

Lastly, from the marble head of Helios (250-160 BC), an excellent example of "Hellenistic Baroque" and the statue of the nude Aphrodite from 100 BC we can get a taste of Hellenistic art from its zenith on the island. The statue room leads out into a second, smaller courtyard where statues and grave monuments are also on display.

Address: Apellou St., Old Town

Folklore Museum: This museum includes a rich collection of local costumes, Rhodian, Lindian and European plates with rich, coloured plant or geometric designs and an embroidered bed curtain from the 17th - 18th century.

Address: Arygrokastrou Sq., Old Town

Byzantine Museum: This museum is housed next to Panaghia Nikis Church near Mylon Gate in the Old Town. It was built by the Grand Master in 1480 since the Virgin appeared at this location and granted victory to the town then under siege by the Turks. A purely gothic church, it was destroyed by the Turks during the siege of 1522 and the only remains left are the apses which are adjacent to the town walls. The museum contains wall paintings from the arch-roofed church of Aghios Zachariou at Finiki on Halki from the end of the 14th century and icons from the late Byzantine and post Byzantine period such as the Virgin Hodegetria from the mid 14th century.

Aquarium - Rhodes Hydrobiological Station This is one of the most important scientific research centres on marine life in Greece. Many species of fish and marine life from the Greek seas and tropical fish too live in suitably landscaped tanks. Stuffed mammals are on display as well as shells from all over the world.

The Municipality of Archangelos

Archangelos Folklore Museum: The museum includes local costumes, old household items and agricultural tools and tools for painting, handicrafts, weaving and embroidery.

The Municipality of Attavyros

Embonas Folklore Museum: The museum is housed in a traditional building donated by the poet Ioannis Konstandakis. It includes household items from an old traditional house, agricultural tools, cookware and personal items from the donor.

Kritinia Folklore Museum: Traditional costumes, agricultural tools, looms and woven fabrics are on display.

The Municipality of Southern Rhodes

Asklipios Ecclesiastical - Folklore Museum: The ecclesiastical collection includes sacred vessels from the 16th to 18th century, icons, priests clothing, gospels, oil lamps, a font, bells, ancient columns and capitals and other objects. The folklore collection includes agricultural tool, a wheat grinding machine and household items from yesteryear. Among the exhibits the old equipment from an olive oil press which has survived intact is impressive.

The Municipality of Petaloudes

Natural History Museum in Butterfly Valley: The museum houses an incubating facility - butterfly display, library and information bureau from where one can by informative material. One can also see exhibits about the flora, fauna, minerals and rocks on Rhodes.

Bee-keeping and Bee Natural History Museum: See the amazing world of bees in transparent observation beehives and get to known the tradition and history of bee-keeping on Rhodes.

Learn about bees and their valuable products: honey, pollen, wax, propolis and royal jelly.

Unwind in the picnic area and enjoy what is a truly unique experience.

The Municipality of Lindos

In an old house in Lindos from the 15th -16th century is the Ioannidis Collection which includes 71 plates, more than 200 household and decorative items and an 18th century wedding bed.

The Municipality of Afandou

The small collection of Panaghia Church in the square in Afandou consists of icons, bibles, and the church's archive and photographs of former metropolitans.

The Municipality of Kallithea

Koskinou Traditional House: In the centre of the village is a beautiful listed house where tradition, art and the grandeur of the village's residents lives on. Plates from Koskinou, embroidery and white thread embroidery work, a bridal bed, pottery and everyday items of folklore art are on display.

Libraries:

The Municipality of Rhodes

The Castellania Library in Ippokratous Square contains remarkable ancient books and a newspaper archive.

The Municipal Library is housed in the Epavlis Mansion, a traditional building which has been laid out and operates as a cultural centre with a library, music department and exhibition space.

Muslim Library: Founded in 1794 by Hafuz Ahmet Aga. It contains remarkable manuscripts such as the chronicle which describes the siege of Rhodes by the Turks in 1522.

Ionian islands

The temperate climate; the deep and cool sea waters; the mountains; the lush vegetation; the cultural heritage; and the cheerfulness of the inhabitants, make the Ionian Islands the ideal place for a holiday as well as rest and relaxation.

What is more, the traits of the Ionian Islands are perfectly combined with a flawless tourism infrastructure, excellent hotel accommodations, restaurants, diving centers, sea sports, cultural events, and a multitude of sights, historic monuments and museums worth visiting.

Scattered along the western coastline of Central Greece, the Ionian Islands as they are known, are an island cluster comprising twelve small and large islands whose total surface area comes to 2,200 square kilometers. Zakynthos, Ithaki, Kerkyra (Corfu), Kefalonia, Lefkada, and Paxoi are the six, large Ionian Islands. Antipaxi, Erikousa, Mathraki, Othoni, Meganisi and the deserted islets of Strofades south of Zakynthos are the smaller Ionian Islands.

Together with the island of Kythira and the neighboring Antikythira the islands form the island cluster of Eptanisa. Nevertheless it should be noted that Kythira and Antikythira are completely cut off from the rest of the Ionian islands situated as they are across southern Peloponnese and the coast of Laconia.

Once, the Ionian Islands were part of Central Greece but were torn apart when the terrain sank due to the seismic activity along the great coastline fault of the Ionian Sea. This accounts not only for the ragged shores and hauntingly beautiful beaches but it also accounts for the islands’ tall mountains, once part of the Pindos mountain range which crosses Central Greece. It also accounts for the great depth of the waters in the area which, at 4,406 meters, is the greatest in the Mediterranean.

The Ionian islands have a mild and temperate climate which makes them the ideal location for vacation or residence. In winter, the mountains of Central Greece stop the cold northern winds from reaching the islands while, in summer, the heat is tempered by the meltemia, the soft, northwestern winds, and the sea breezes. Due to the air currents prevalent on the Ionian islands, many of the island beaches have developed into internationally acclaimed windsurfing centers.

The Ionian Islands have been inhabited since Paleolithic times, have been through many invasions, and have received the influence of a variety of cultures.

The Ionian Islands were part of the Byzantine Empire until1204 when the Franks took over Constantinople and the Ionian Islands were eventually ceded to the Venetians. Under Venetian rule, the Ionian Islands formed their own local nobility whose register survived as late as the 19th century.

From the time of Frankish rule until 1864 when they were joined with Greece, the Ionian Islands were also ruled by a number of foreign conquerors. The presence of the Europeans on the Ionian Islands at a time when Greece was still under Ottoman rule gave rise to significant intellectual activity something that is still visible today both in the islands’ architectural tradition as well as their charming cultural traits.

source: http://www.visitgreece.gr/portal/site/eot/

Monuments

Monuments of religious significance

From the years of the Byzantine Empire (330-1453 A.D.), Greek land has been indissolubly linked to the Eastern Orthodox Christian Church, which played a significant role during the Turkish Occupation Period in maintaining the language and identity of the Greeks, while the clergy played an active role during the Greek War of Independence (1821-1830) in throwing off Ottoman yoke and creating the New Hellenic State. Orthodox Churches and Monasteries were always important convocations of social cohesion and references. The plethora of churches and monasteries constitute actual architectural monuments, while the atmosphere they encompass gives the visitor a sense of devoutness.

source: http://www.visitgreece.gr/portal/site/eot/

Sights

Rhodes island sights

The Medieval City

During the 14th and 15th centuries the Knights of the Order of St. John extended the Byzantine city and reinforced its fortifications creating the medieval town of Rhodes. Of note is the architecture in the gothic style developed in Provence at the Papal Court of Avignon (1309-1424) with which the Knights maintained close ties.

Eleven gates provided access to the city which is divided into two parts: The Collachium, where the Knights resided - the most impressive buildings from that time are located here: the Grand Master's Palace, the Infirmary and the Langues - and the Burgo, the main town.

The Old Town, as the locals call it, is today one of the best preserved fortified medieval towns and has been listed by UNESCO and a world cultural heritage monument. Walking down its paved streets, admiring the imposing Knightly buildings, the walls and their dry moat and the bastions, the Byzantine churches and the mosques, the squares, gardens and courtyards of houses, the visitor feels that time has stopped while at the same time discovering that this unique town is still living, full of surprises and just asking you to explore it.

The Knights' Street (Odhos Ippoton) is 200 m long and 6 m wide. It was the main official street connecting the religious and political centre of the fortress, in other words the Catholic Cathedral (Panaghia Kastrou) and the Palace of the Grand Master. Along its length are the most important public and private buildings erected by the Knights. Here, with few exceptions, is the accommodation for the Knights, the "Langues", the national divisions of the Order of the Knights of St. John. The street is inclined and unusually for a medieval city completely straight. That is one indication that it was first marked out in antiquity. This was retained by the Knights precisely because the strict linear layout suited them and the new political importance they attached to it.

Visit the Clock Tower built in 1851 which was once used as lookout post. It has a small collection of archaeological finds discovered there. The view of the Old Town from the tower is breathtaking.

Melina Mercouri Theatre in the dry moat of the medieval city with the magical backdrop created by the battlements and towers of the curtain walls is used each summer to host concerts, theatre shows and dance.

Panaghia Bourgou is a late gothic church dating from the 14th century. It was bombed during World War II and today the three apses of the sanctuary are what remain.

Sokratous St. ends in Ippokratous Square. It is the main commercial street in the Old Town. Around the square with its large fountain are many bars, restaurants and nightclubs.

Of the many impressive mosques in the Old Town the Suleyman Mosque is truly noteworthy. The present-day building was constructed in the 19th century on the site of an older one which tradition says was erected by the town's conqueror Suleyman the Magnificent. Note the intricate marble entrance which comes from a grave monument from the time of the knights. In Dorieon Sq. lies Retzet Pasha Mosque.

New Town

The Temple of Aphrodite from the 3rd century BC. Its ruins were unearthed in the heart of the new town between Mandraki and Akandia Port in Symi Square.

Murat Reis Mosque with its elegant minaret lies near the Prefectural Building. It is built on the site of Aghios Antonios Church next to the Knight's Cemetery. The Turkish cemetery contains the tombs of exiled Turks, an admiral of Suleyman II's fleet in a round mausoleum and a poet banished by the Sultan for his sarcastic poetry. In the square around the mosque the ruins of the ancient walls have been found together with inscribed stone balls marked with their weight. They begin at 5 mnes and reach 10 talents (2 to 261 kilos approximately). From the type of letters the balls have been dated to the famed siege by Dimitris Poliorcetes.

Aghios Nikolaos lighthouse is a fortress at the end of the jetty with the same name where the deer statutes stand at the entrance to the port welcoming visitors to the island.

At the other end are three windmills. The first houses the offices of the Army Hydrographical Service where maritime maps can be purchased. The second from the 15th century operates as a museum. One can see the grinding mechanism while the third houses a travel agency.

Aghios Stefanos Hill also known as Monte Smith after an English admiral of Napoleon who called at the island in 1802. In the well laid out and verdant archaeological park are the surviving remains of a 3rd century BC Stadium where the Alies Games were held, the largest celebration for the Ancient Rhodians in honour of the god Helios.

Next to the stadium a small, marble open-air theatre has been restored and is used for musical performances just like in antiquity.

At the peak of the hill is the temple of Apollo Pythia, protector of the city. From here the view over the town and the sea is panoramic and the sunset enchanting.

The tombs of St. John are in the central part of the extensive Rhodian necropolis. Important monuments are the large corner tomb complex with domed graves, the group of domed graves crowned by a monument with triglyphs and metopes and the tomb carved into the rock with a monumental gateway. Of most interest is the underground quarry into whose tunnels grave chambers were dug.

History

History of Rhodes island Greece

Rhodes was inhabited at the Neolithic era. In 322BC, Rhodes was joined with the empire of Alexander the Great. After his death , Rhodes maintained in close trade with the kingdom of Ptolemy's in Egypt. In 164BC, Rhodes signed a treaty with Rome. At the first century of our era,St Paul visited the island. Between 1307 and 1522, the island was the seat of the order of Knights of St John of Jerusalem. The Knights occupied Rhodes in 1307 and completed the conquest in 1310 . They strengthened the city, leaving the Great current walls. In the low part of Rhodes, they built the palace of the Great Master . The island was a first seat in 1480, before falling to the hands from the Turks from Soleiman the Magnificent in 1522, after a five month siege. In 1912, Italy seized the island which belonged to the Turks then. The island reunited with Greece in 1948.The Colossus of Rhodes

After defeating Demetrius Poliorcetes in 305 BC, the citizens of Rhodes used their booty to erect a thank offering to their divine patron Helios. Chares of Lindos, a pupil of Lysippus, built (292-280 BC) a bronze statue of the nude young god wearing a sun-ray crown and looking out to sea. Many stories exaggerate the size of the statue; it must, however, have been approximately 36 m (120 ft) high on a base of white marble 6-7.5 m (20-25 ft) high and thus larger than any other statue. It stood beside, not over, the harbor. Although reinforced with stone and iron, the Colossus broke at the knees and fell in an earthquake 60 years later. It remained a wonder until the Arab invasion (AD 653), when it was broken up and sold for scrap metal. Nothing of it remains except very dubious copie.

Rhodes

Rhodes island Greece

Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands and one of the largest in the Aegean sea. It is situated approximately 17,7 km from the coasts of Turkey. The population is about 130.000 persons , of which approximately 60-70.000 reside in the city of Rhodes. Rhodes called from its local people the Rose of the Aegean and deserves its name because is one of the most beautiful Greek islands. Rhodes has the oldest tourist history from all the islands of Greece and is famous all over the world, this wonderful Greek island together with the islands of Kos, Crete, Mykonos, Santorini and Corfu attracts the most tourism in Greece. Many Hollywood films have been filmed here ,that helped more the global advertisement of Rhodes and its beauties. The island of Rhodes has an excellent tourist infrastructure with modern Hotels of every category .During the summer hundreds of charter flights landing at Rhodes airport in Maritsa. Rhodes town is divided to the new town and the old town from the big medieval wall. The beauty of Rhodes town is the old town with the medieval castles ,houses and streets. At the port the visitor will find Mandraki with its circular Market and the Cafes at the seafront ,further on are the Art Deco buildings of the Metropolis from the times of the Italian occupation. At the entrance of the port are the famous two columns with the two Deers at the place where supposed to be the colossus of Rhodes .The ancient city of Lindos is another of the main Attractions of the island.

Major national, European and world congresses are held on Rhodes each year. All congress facilities ranging from ancient theatres to the medieval palace or ultra-modern buildings meet the necessary operating and technological specifications.

Geographical location of Rhodes: the wonderful island of Rhodes as we can see in a map of Greece located in the south east Aegean in the Dodecanese south of Kos and east of Karpathos. Very near to the north east part of the island are the Asia Minor coast.

Sporades

Explore the Sporades islands, in the northwest Aegean! Dense vegetation; rocky landscapes, and pure blue seas: a uniquely alternative destination. Go island-hopping in a paradise island complex!

Trace Skiathos walking routes, and discover its hidden beauties. With your mind’s eye follow the footsteps of great writers, such as Alexander Papadiamantis, as they walked through dense forests and olive groves! The nature enthusiasts should follow a lovely route through the famous Koukounaries forest and around Lake Strofilia. (Length 4.2 km). Alternatively, take a leisurely, easy walk round Kanapitsa Peninsula (4,9km)!

Seeking to experience some religious awe? Take a rather long-distance walk (7km) to Skiathos historical churches (Evagelistrias Monastery & the Churches of St. Haralambos, St. Apostolos and St. Dimitrios).

Do you know that the island of Alonissos is home to the Mediterranean Monk Seal (: monachus monachus), one of the biggest seal species? Go to the National Marine Park of Alonissos and support the rescue of newborn pups!

Looking for a peaceful island to enjoy your family holidays? Skopelos is your destination! Find yourself in a green surrounding with rich pine forests, crystal blue seas and sandy beaches! Taste the famous cheese-pie of Skopelos, and have a shot of ouzo in tavernas by the sea!

Are you a movie fan? Trace the paths of the exciting film “Mamma Mia”! Yes, the amazing chapel on the rocks (where the wedding ceremony took place) really exists! It’s “Saint Ioannis Chapel” in Skopelos!

In the island of Skyros ride a cute pony in the heart of a dense pine-tree forest, or participate in the famous carnival celebrations. The island is also home to the “Skyros Institute of Holistic Studies”, which offers alternative therapy programmes (yoga or even windsurfing)!

source: http://www.visitgreece.gr/portal/site/eot/

Walking

Walking in Rhodes

Rhodes has some lovely walks in store for you if you want to take them; if you pack some walking gear into your suitcase as well as stuff for the beach, you will be prepared for all eventualities.

One thing you should really do before heading out to Rhodes is a bit of research. If you have already booked your holiday take the time to find out more about the local area. You can try and plan a few walks before you leave, to save time once you arrive. In contrast if you are still looking to book your holiday you may be able to book an apartment or hotel room somewhere near a prime place for walks. In either case you can have some idea of what to expect once you get there.

Walks in Rhodes also give you the opportunity to get away from the cities and towns for a while. You can explore a different side of Rhodes. For example Tsambika Beach promises a path that leads you all the way up to the Tsambika Monastery. The walk may be something of a challenge but you will see some superb views once you reach the monastery itself.

Elsewhere you could opt to get away from the beaches and move towards the forests and mountains instead. Mount Profitis Ilias is more of a challenge if you prefer a longer walk that takes you into the mountainous part of Rhodes. You may be surprised at how different this part of Rhodes actually is if you have only ever stayed in the coastal regions.

So you can see that walking around on the island promises to be a wonderfully involving activity. Whatever you think of Rhodes now, your opinion may be changed for the better once you tackle some walks there.

Excursions

Rhodes excursions

The Aquarium

On the northernmost tip of Neohori stands the official Institute of Hydrobiology (the Aquarium). As well as being the premier research laboratory for scientific projects, the centre also presents a popular aquarium. On display are rare species of fish and other marine fauna. Particularly impressive are the tanks located below sea-level which feature special marine exhibits.

The Medieval Town is a living monument, an exquisite museum if you like, that has much to reveal to the visitor. Every corner, every street, every building has its own history, and so it is understandable that a “guide” will confine him or her self to the best-known sights. They will have time only for some key historical facts, leaving visitors, perhaps with the help of some more detailed or specific information, to discover by themselves, walking along the narrow maze of streets, a taste of the Old Town that we cannot give in the course of our short “tour”.

Starting from Mandraki, and passing through Eleftheria Gate at Symi Square, the first building we see is the 15th century Inn of Tongue of Auverge, now the offices of the Archaeological Services. To the right of Symi Square is the Municipal Art Gallery with its Collection of works by modern Greek painters. Just a litle further is Argyrokastro Square, a beautiful small space, at the center of which is a fountain made out of an early-Christian baptismal font.

Also In Argyrokastro Square is one of the oldest and most beautiful buildings in the medieval town – the old arsenal of the Knights – which today houses the Folk Art and Folklore Museum.

On show are various exhibits from the past, such as the Rhodian “sperveri”, a hand-made curtain of asbestos cloth and silk surrounding the nuptial bed. Other treasures include plates from Rhodes and Byzantium, local costumes, furniture, and various traditional household items.

Leaving Argyrokastro Square and walking through the low arch that today controls vehicle access to the medieval town, we arrive, at the foot of the Street of the knights, at the Byzantine 12th century Church of the Virgin Mary of the Castle (now the Byzantine Art museum).

Immediately after, in Museum Square, are the inn of the Tongue of England, and the old hospital of the knights, which today houses the Archaeological Museum.

As visitors leave the Castle, suitably impressed, they will probably be thinking that there is nothing of the Medieval town left to see. But they soon realize this isn’t the case, and as they continue walking they quickly discover that a new surprise beckons at every corner.

Further delights await as the walker passes Kleobulos Square and crosses Orpheus Street, a wide road shaded from the sun by the large, spreading plane trees. There the visitor can rest opposite the canons of the Castle at the base of the Clock Tower, which is now a nightclub. This tower is often a willing model, posing for the open-air pavement artists of the area. And so our stroll goes on…

At the foot of Orpheus Street, beyond the inner wall of the Castle, where Socrates Street begins, is the mosque of Suleiman, built in 1808, opposite the Ahmet Hafuz library, which dates from 1794.

And now before us is Socrates Street, with its scores of busy shoppers, or window-shoppers, buying or browsing in the hundreds of stores that line both sides of this 24-hour high-street!

Off Socrates Street, both left and right, narrow lanes wind into the heart of the medieval town. One of them, Hippodamus Street (right), leads to the Turkish quarter. A little way on the right-hand side is the 15th century church of Agia Paraskevi and shortly after this, on the left, is the very narrow Arhelaou Street, which gives on to Arionos Square and the mosque of Sultan Mustafa (1765) and the Turkish Hamam (baths), which are still operated by the local municipality.

From Arionos Square a lane descends to the open-air theatre. Regularly, on summer evenings, folk-dance performances are held here.

A little further down, taking the road to the right, we come to the Byzantine church of Agios Fanourios. Walking back along Agios Fanourios Street, we end up half-way down Socrates Street, and still descending, we reach the beautiful fountain in the center of Hippocrates Square.

In the square stands the important building known as “Castellania”, of an unusual architectural style with a grand external staircase. During the Italian period it was the hub of the town’s commercial life, and the first floor held the Commercial Court. Today the Folklore Archives of the Dodecanese and the Public Library are housed here.

Leaving Hippocrates Square, we traverse Aristotle Street towards the square of the Hebrew Martyrs, the heart of the Jewish quarter. In the middle of this square there is an ornate fountain with tiles depicting shells, starfish, and marine life, and the beautiful decoration is completed with three large iron sea-horses.

On the north side of the square is the Admiralty (15th century), for many years the residence of the Bishop of Rhodes. On the south-eastern side is the Synagogue and, continuing to the end of the street, we arrive at the Church of the Virgin Mary of the Burgh (14th century), the biggest church of the medieval town, now divided into two sections.

An extension of Aristotle Street leads to the reconstructed Hostel of Saint Catherine, and a little further to the east, in another square, is the 15th century church of Agios Panteleimon.

Moreover, if you want an even more complete picture of the Old Town, you can walk along the walls (as permitted) and also in the moat surrounding the walls, behind which thrives the medieval Town of Rhodes.