The island and the city

Naxos is the largest island of the Kyklades. It has a settled population of approximately 20 000 people. The first population came to Naxos in 3000 BC. In 1207 Naxos was captured by the Venetians. Towers and buildings from that era can be seen all over the island. The landscape around the villages is green, with vegetation such as olive-trees and citrus-trees. The terrain is perfect for hiking. Naxos Island is also known for its many beautiful beaches.

The highest peak of the island is Zas (1000 m), named after Thesevs from Greek mythology. You can climb the mountain from several angles, and on your way you can see large marble cuarries. If you reach the top, you can see eagles circling the sky.

There are several historical sights located on the island. For instance by Apollon on the north side of Naxos, lies an unfinished statue from 600 BC (10, 5 m). There are also small villages spread around the island.

There are a lot of churches from the first christian era, to be seen on Naxos. The oldest is Panagia Drosiani from 500 AC.

The capital of the island is Chora, and its location by the sea is very beautiful. By the city you can see an enormous marble gate: The Portara from 522 BC. It was supposed to be the entrance to the temple of Apollon, but the temple was never finished.

At the port of Chora has a large selecton of taverns and restaurants, and behind the restaurants is the oldest part of the city, with narrow alleys and plenty of giftshops and charming taverns. The castle “Kastro” is located at the highest peak of the city. It has been there since the conquest of the Venetians, when it belonged to the catholic aristocracy. These days it houses an archaeologic museum.