Naxos sightseeing by Juliana
Αξιοθέατα
The Statue of Kouros in Melanes, Naxos: The remarkable statue of Kouros can be seen outside the village of Melanes, in the countryside of Naxos. There is a second Kouros statue located outside of the village of Apollonas, in northern Naxos. The statue of Melanes lies on the ground, at the exact position that it was found by the archeologists. It is 6 meters long and dates back to 7th century.
Archeologists believe that this statue used to hold a temple roof but they were decidedly abandoned by the ancient sculptors due to faults in the marble and stone that were made of. Historians assume that the statue depicts god Apollo or god Dionysus. Others believe that the statue represented a local hero, which is why it is so large in size. Remains of ancient temples surround Kouros statue.
There is a third Kouros Statue about 200m away from this one.
76 yerel halk öneriyor
Kouros at Melanes
The Statue of Kouros in Melanes, Naxos: The remarkable statue of Kouros can be seen outside the village of Melanes, in the countryside of Naxos. There is a second Kouros statue located outside of the village of Apollonas, in northern Naxos. The statue of Melanes lies on the ground, at the exact position that it was found by the archeologists. It is 6 meters long and dates back to 7th century.
Archeologists believe that this statue used to hold a temple roof but they were decidedly abandoned by the ancient sculptors due to faults in the marble and stone that were made of. Historians assume that the statue depicts god Apollo or god Dionysus. Others believe that the statue represented a local hero, which is why it is so large in size. Remains of ancient temples surround Kouros statue.
There is a third Kouros Statue about 200m away from this one.
The Jesuit Monastery in Kalamitsia, Naxos: In a walking distance of 2 km from the villages of Melanes, in the region of Kalamitsia, there is a deserted Jesuit Monastery. This monastery, also known as the Jesuit Palace, is surrounded by low hills and olive trees. Constructed in 1673 by the Jesuit monk Roberto Sauze, this monastery was constructed on the ruins of an older Venetian mansion. Its marvelous design, elegance and luxurious style provoked the reactions of the residents that time as this luxury was opposed to the supposedly austere life of the monks.
The first years, this monastery was used as a place of meditation for Jesuit monks, but in the next years, it passed into the hands of other Catholic orders. The building has two storeys and many ancillary wings. Although it is totally deserted today, it is kept in relatively good condition. Visitors can see the kitchen, the laundry rooms, stables, and cells. As the building has not been restored, special attention is required during the visit.
11 yerel halk öneriyor
Kalamitsia
The Jesuit Monastery in Kalamitsia, Naxos: In a walking distance of 2 km from the villages of Melanes, in the region of Kalamitsia, there is a deserted Jesuit Monastery. This monastery, also known as the Jesuit Palace, is surrounded by low hills and olive trees. Constructed in 1673 by the Jesuit monk Roberto Sauze, this monastery was constructed on the ruins of an older Venetian mansion. Its marvelous design, elegance and luxurious style provoked the reactions of the residents that time as this luxury was opposed to the supposedly austere life of the monks.
The first years, this monastery was used as a place of meditation for Jesuit monks, but in the next years, it passed into the hands of other Catholic orders. The building has two storeys and many ancillary wings. Although it is totally deserted today, it is kept in relatively good condition. Visitors can see the kitchen, the laundry rooms, stables, and cells. As the building has not been restored, special attention is required during the visit.
Potamia Naxos: Located 9 kilometres from Naxos Town, the lovely village of Potamia is perched on a hillside and surrounded by wonderful green nature. With a population of 300 inhabitants, the main financial sources of the village today are agriculture and livestock. Potamia, whose name means riverside, actually consists of three villages: Ano Potamia (Upper Riverside), Mesi Potamia (Middle Riverside) and Kato Potamia (Down Riverside). The name derived from a wonderful river that crosses these three villages and makes a great place for hiking.
In the Medieval times, Potamia was very prosperous, as shown by the many Venetian towers and the 14 mills, whose ruins can be seen around till today. Very impressive is the 17th century Tower of Kokkos with a watermill in its basement. In Ano Potamia, next to a prehistoric water spring, there is the tavern Pigi, one of the best taverns on the island.
8 yerel halk öneriyor
Ano Potamia
Potamia Naxos: Located 9 kilometres from Naxos Town, the lovely village of Potamia is perched on a hillside and surrounded by wonderful green nature. With a population of 300 inhabitants, the main financial sources of the village today are agriculture and livestock. Potamia, whose name means riverside, actually consists of three villages: Ano Potamia (Upper Riverside), Mesi Potamia (Middle Riverside) and Kato Potamia (Down Riverside). The name derived from a wonderful river that crosses these three villages and makes a great place for hiking.
In the Medieval times, Potamia was very prosperous, as shown by the many Venetian towers and the 14 mills, whose ruins can be seen around till today. Very impressive is the 17th century Tower of Kokkos with a watermill in its basement. In Ano Potamia, next to a prehistoric water spring, there is the tavern Pigi, one of the best taverns on the island.
Routsouna Waterfall is an amazing sight, untouched by human intervention. It is located near Keramoti, a picturesque villages on Naxos. Note that you need a 45 minutes walk to reach the waterfall.
The waterfall is created by two streams that converge at the western edge of the village. The origins of these rivers are spotted on Koronos and Fanari mountains. The height of Routsouna Waterfall is about 20 meters.
The surrounding area enchants you with its tranquil atmosphere and dense vegetation, which comes as a result of the continuously flowing streams. Routsouna waterfall is definitely a unique sight that differs from the common Cycladic setting.
10 yerel halk öneriyor
Routsouna's Waterfall
Routsouna Waterfall is an amazing sight, untouched by human intervention. It is located near Keramoti, a picturesque villages on Naxos. Note that you need a 45 minutes walk to reach the waterfall.
The waterfall is created by two streams that converge at the western edge of the village. The origins of these rivers are spotted on Koronos and Fanari mountains. The height of Routsouna Waterfall is about 20 meters.
The surrounding area enchants you with its tranquil atmosphere and dense vegetation, which comes as a result of the continuously flowing streams. Routsouna waterfall is definitely a unique sight that differs from the common Cycladic setting.
The Temple of Demeter in Sangri Naxos: The Temple of Demeter on Naxos is located near the village of Sangri. This magnificent temple has been made of the finest quality of Naxos marble and is believed to date back to the 6th century BC. As Demeter was the ancient goddess of grain, people used to build temples to her close to fertile areas. Such a fertile ground is found around the village of Sangri, on Naxos.
✔ DISCOVER THE TEMPLE OF DEMETER WITH US!
Discover the available Tours or get there with your own car rental, starting at 14€ per day.
Some excavations in the area certify that the area was used for a religious purpose since the late Mycenaean Era. That time, the cult of the gods was open air. The temple was built in around 530 B.C in the classical architectural style.
The temple declined after the 3rd century B.C. With the domination of Christianity, the temple of Demeter was turned into a Christian religious center and a small chapel was built in the center of the temple. This chapel was dedicated to Agios Ioannis and was constructed using the marble of the ancient temple. The church was probably ruined in the 6th century A.D., after an invasion of the Arabs. It was rebuilt in 1977 in a southern location.
The remains of the ancient temple of Demeter were discovered by the archaeologist Nikolaos Kontoleon in 1949. The excavation works lasted from 1976 to 1995. Ruins of the temple were found all over the area, although much of its precious marble had been stolen. In the middle 1990s, a group of German archaeologists restored the temple to its ancient glory. Today, the Temple of Demeter is one of the most beautiful ancient temples, set in a picturesque environment. It can be reached by car. It is found in Ano Sangri, at a distance of about 10 km from Naxos Town.
How to get there
The Temple of Demeter is located in Sangri village.
124 yerel halk öneriyor
Demeter Tapınağı
The Temple of Demeter in Sangri Naxos: The Temple of Demeter on Naxos is located near the village of Sangri. This magnificent temple has been made of the finest quality of Naxos marble and is believed to date back to the 6th century BC. As Demeter was the ancient goddess of grain, people used to build temples to her close to fertile areas. Such a fertile ground is found around the village of Sangri, on Naxos.
✔ DISCOVER THE TEMPLE OF DEMETER WITH US!
Discover the available Tours or get there with your own car rental, starting at 14€ per day.
Some excavations in the area certify that the area was used for a religious purpose since the late Mycenaean Era. That time, the cult of the gods was open air. The temple was built in around 530 B.C in the classical architectural style.
The temple declined after the 3rd century B.C. With the domination of Christianity, the temple of Demeter was turned into a Christian religious center and a small chapel was built in the center of the temple. This chapel was dedicated to Agios Ioannis and was constructed using the marble of the ancient temple. The church was probably ruined in the 6th century A.D., after an invasion of the Arabs. It was rebuilt in 1977 in a southern location.
The remains of the ancient temple of Demeter were discovered by the archaeologist Nikolaos Kontoleon in 1949. The excavation works lasted from 1976 to 1995. Ruins of the temple were found all over the area, although much of its precious marble had been stolen. In the middle 1990s, a group of German archaeologists restored the temple to its ancient glory. Today, the Temple of Demeter is one of the most beautiful ancient temples, set in a picturesque environment. It can be reached by car. It is found in Ano Sangri, at a distance of about 10 km from Naxos Town.
How to get there
The Temple of Demeter is located in Sangri village.
The Statues of Kouros in Naxos Cyclades: These remarkable statues can be seen at the villages of Melanes and Apollonas, on Naxos. The statue in Apollonas, also known as the Kouros of Apollonas is a life-size statue, exceeding 10 meters in height. It dates back to 8th century and archeologists haven't actually decided on whether the statue depicts the god Apollo or the god Dionysus.
The statue remained incomplete for unknown reasons. Its construction is simple without any decorative features. The other statue is located in Melanes village. It lies on the ground, at the exact position as the historians found it. It is smaller than the one in Apollonas and it dates back to 7th century BC. Archeologists believe that these statues were predestined to hold on to a temple roof but they were decidedly abandoned by the ancient sculptors due to faults in the marble and stone that were constructed of. Remains of ancient temples surround both statues.
49 yerel halk öneriyor
Apollonas
The Statues of Kouros in Naxos Cyclades: These remarkable statues can be seen at the villages of Melanes and Apollonas, on Naxos. The statue in Apollonas, also known as the Kouros of Apollonas is a life-size statue, exceeding 10 meters in height. It dates back to 8th century and archeologists haven't actually decided on whether the statue depicts the god Apollo or the god Dionysus.
The statue remained incomplete for unknown reasons. Its construction is simple without any decorative features. The other statue is located in Melanes village. It lies on the ground, at the exact position as the historians found it. It is smaller than the one in Apollonas and it dates back to 7th century BC. Archeologists believe that these statues were predestined to hold on to a temple roof but they were decidedly abandoned by the ancient sculptors due to faults in the marble and stone that were constructed of. Remains of ancient temples surround both statues.
Naxos Portara, Cyclades: The Portara, or the Great Door, is essentially a massive marble doorway (of the temple of Apollo), that stands proudly as the jewel of Naxos. It lies close to the port, on the islet of Palatia which was once a hill. Back in the ancient times, a strip of land connected the north side of Naxos port to the islet of Palatia. Today, the strip of land has been replaced by a causeway. Myth has it that the islet of Palatia was exactly where Ariadne, the Minoan princess was abandoned by her lover, Theseus after he killed Minotaur on the island of Crete.
Around the year 530 B.C when Naxos was at its peak of glory, the then ruler, Lygdamis wanted to build the highest and most magnificent buildings in all of Greece in Naxos. He ordered for a massive temple to be built but when war broke out between Naxos and Samos, the work stopped abruptly.
After that, Lygdamis was overthrown in 506 BC and the temple, which was supposed to be at least a hundred feet tall, was never completed. Today all that remains of the temple is the Portara. The temple was supposed to be Ionic, 59 m long and 28 m wide with a peristyle of 6x12 columns with double porticos at its end. It is believed that this temple was to be built in the honor of Apollo, the Greek God who protected music and poets. Proof of this lies in the fact that the temple faces in the direction of Delos, which is believed to be Apollo's birthplace.
However, some scholars believe that this temple was to be built in the honor of Dionysus, the God of wine and patron God of Naxos. The gate is around 6 m high and 3.5 m wide built with four separate columns. Each column weighs about 20 tons. During the Middle Ages, a church was built behind the Portara. Later under Venetian rule, it was dismantled so that the marble could be used to build the Kastro, which is a fortress built during the time of the Venetians and other monuments and buildings.
Thankfully, the Portara was too heavy and massive to be completely dismantled. However, today of the four columns only three have survived. One has to agree that even though it is quite a steep climb to the top of the hill, just the experience of viewing the sunset through the Portara is completely worth it. Wherever you are in Naxos, your eyes cannot possibly miss the Portara.
202 yerel halk öneriyor
Apollon Tapınağı - Portara
Naxos Portara, Cyclades: The Portara, or the Great Door, is essentially a massive marble doorway (of the temple of Apollo), that stands proudly as the jewel of Naxos. It lies close to the port, on the islet of Palatia which was once a hill. Back in the ancient times, a strip of land connected the north side of Naxos port to the islet of Palatia. Today, the strip of land has been replaced by a causeway. Myth has it that the islet of Palatia was exactly where Ariadne, the Minoan princess was abandoned by her lover, Theseus after he killed Minotaur on the island of Crete.
Around the year 530 B.C when Naxos was at its peak of glory, the then ruler, Lygdamis wanted to build the highest and most magnificent buildings in all of Greece in Naxos. He ordered for a massive temple to be built but when war broke out between Naxos and Samos, the work stopped abruptly.
After that, Lygdamis was overthrown in 506 BC and the temple, which was supposed to be at least a hundred feet tall, was never completed. Today all that remains of the temple is the Portara. The temple was supposed to be Ionic, 59 m long and 28 m wide with a peristyle of 6x12 columns with double porticos at its end. It is believed that this temple was to be built in the honor of Apollo, the Greek God who protected music and poets. Proof of this lies in the fact that the temple faces in the direction of Delos, which is believed to be Apollo's birthplace.
However, some scholars believe that this temple was to be built in the honor of Dionysus, the God of wine and patron God of Naxos. The gate is around 6 m high and 3.5 m wide built with four separate columns. Each column weighs about 20 tons. During the Middle Ages, a church was built behind the Portara. Later under Venetian rule, it was dismantled so that the marble could be used to build the Kastro, which is a fortress built during the time of the Venetians and other monuments and buildings.
Thankfully, the Portara was too heavy and massive to be completely dismantled. However, today of the four columns only three have survived. One has to agree that even though it is quite a steep climb to the top of the hill, just the experience of viewing the sunset through the Portara is completely worth it. Wherever you are in Naxos, your eyes cannot possibly miss the Portara.
The Castle (Kastro) of Naxos, Cyclades: The Castle of Naxos Town is actually the old Venetian town. Along with the Tower of Glezos, it served as a protective shield to the impregnable fortress of Sanoudos in Chora of Naxos, and was originally built under the supervision of Markos II Sanoudos (the Venetian conqueror after whom it was named), who came along with the establishment of Frank sovereignty in the Aegean in 1207.
The fortification adjoining the fortress is conspicuous by its pentagonal shape and has three gates. The Glezos tower popularly referred to as the Krispi stands like a sentinel in close proximity to the northwestern gate and certain parts of the tower extend to the western and northern side of the fortress. It consists of four floors and it is the only castle in Naxos with a round shape. The fortress circuit towers, particularly the Glezos tower is impeccably preserved even to this day. The entry to the tower is conspicuous by the customary coat-of-arms that once belonged to the Crispi family.
The tower was handed over to the Archaeological Service by Mr. Petros Glezos who believed that the tower would be well preserved by such a prestigious institution. Restoration work is still going on and the Archaeological Society intends to build a Museum. Upon successful completion of the work, it will become the foremost Byzantine Museum in the whole of Cyclades. The Glezos tower was restored in the period 1968-1969. In the year 1968, the tower underwent comprehensive restoration. In more recent times, from the year 1995 work on building the museum commenced and is an ongoing activity.
91 yerel halk öneriyor
Castle (Kastro) of Naxos
The Castle (Kastro) of Naxos, Cyclades: The Castle of Naxos Town is actually the old Venetian town. Along with the Tower of Glezos, it served as a protective shield to the impregnable fortress of Sanoudos in Chora of Naxos, and was originally built under the supervision of Markos II Sanoudos (the Venetian conqueror after whom it was named), who came along with the establishment of Frank sovereignty in the Aegean in 1207.
The fortification adjoining the fortress is conspicuous by its pentagonal shape and has three gates. The Glezos tower popularly referred to as the Krispi stands like a sentinel in close proximity to the northwestern gate and certain parts of the tower extend to the western and northern side of the fortress. It consists of four floors and it is the only castle in Naxos with a round shape. The fortress circuit towers, particularly the Glezos tower is impeccably preserved even to this day. The entry to the tower is conspicuous by the customary coat-of-arms that once belonged to the Crispi family.
The tower was handed over to the Archaeological Service by Mr. Petros Glezos who believed that the tower would be well preserved by such a prestigious institution. Restoration work is still going on and the Archaeological Society intends to build a Museum. Upon successful completion of the work, it will become the foremost Byzantine Museum in the whole of Cyclades. The Glezos tower was restored in the period 1968-1969. In the year 1968, the tower underwent comprehensive restoration. In more recent times, from the year 1995 work on building the museum commenced and is an ongoing activity.
Ursulines School & Merchant Academy in Naxos, Cyclades Greece: Established by monks of the Jesuit order in the 17th century, the Ursulines School is located inside the Chora’s Kastro (the Castle), close to the Catholic Cathedral.
The School’s operation initiated originally in 1628, under the supervision of the Jesuit monks that arrived in Naxos due to the extension of French diplomacy during the time. It was the order’s monastery that hosted the separate schools - for boys and girls respectively- and aimed at the proper education of the Catholic youth of Naxos. It is worth mentioning that the Ursulines established the first school for girls ever to exist in Greece, allowing women to have access to higher education. The School was run by Jesuits until 1782, and after they fled the island, it came under the administration of Lazarist monks -according to the decision of King Louis XVI- until 1891. It was then that the Salesian monks proceeded to the reorganization of the School and established the renowned Merchant Academy that quickly gained fame all over Greece for the quality of its studies; the celebrated Greek writer and philosopher Nikos Kazantzakis attended the Academy in 1897, while its operation lasted until 1927.
Nowadays, the Ursulines School continues to provide Greek French-oriented education while the Academy’s building is as of 1985 property of the Greek State and functions as a cultural center.
Πολιτιστικό Κέντρο Νάξου - πρώην Σχολή Ουρσουλινών
Ursulines School & Merchant Academy in Naxos, Cyclades Greece: Established by monks of the Jesuit order in the 17th century, the Ursulines School is located inside the Chora’s Kastro (the Castle), close to the Catholic Cathedral.
The School’s operation initiated originally in 1628, under the supervision of the Jesuit monks that arrived in Naxos due to the extension of French diplomacy during the time. It was the order’s monastery that hosted the separate schools - for boys and girls respectively- and aimed at the proper education of the Catholic youth of Naxos. It is worth mentioning that the Ursulines established the first school for girls ever to exist in Greece, allowing women to have access to higher education. The School was run by Jesuits until 1782, and after they fled the island, it came under the administration of Lazarist monks -according to the decision of King Louis XVI- until 1891. It was then that the Salesian monks proceeded to the reorganization of the School and established the renowned Merchant Academy that quickly gained fame all over Greece for the quality of its studies; the celebrated Greek writer and philosopher Nikos Kazantzakis attended the Academy in 1897, while its operation lasted until 1927.
Nowadays, the Ursulines School continues to provide Greek French-oriented education while the Academy’s building is as of 1985 property of the Greek State and functions as a cultural center.
The Church of Panagia Drossiani on Naxos: The church of the Panagia Drossiani, meaning Dewy Virgin, is the oldest Christian church of Naxos. Located near Moni, it is also considered one of the most important Byzantine churches and is therefore of immense historical significance. There are two different views on why it is called. One reason is that the location where it is built is called Drossia while others believe that the name refers to the icon of the church seeping or weeping every time the village is in danger. Hence the name Dewy Virgin.
The exact location of the church is in the middle of Naxos alongside the road to Apollonas. It dates back at the end of 6th century A.D. It is full of rare paintings and offers a beautiful view of the Tragea Valley. The dome shows Jesus Christ Pantokrator.
In front of the altar on the right side, you will see Agios Georgios on a horse with a little boy sitting behind him carrying water. The early iconostasis was made of marble. However, when that was pulled down, a wooden one was found behind it. The wooden one was made of a heavy kind of wood which may have been chestnut tree wood. It is decorated with an ancient style relief tendril. Its stem traces out wide waves and has big grapes and strange twin vine leaves.
The church has a lovely courtyard which also houses the cemetery of the village. Every year on Good Friday during the mid-day, this church bustles with locals from the village of Moni celebrating an old tradition of offering strong alcohol, raki, and bread with raisins and nuts to all the guests.
64 yerel halk öneriyor
Panagia Drossiani Church
Eparchiaki Odos Chalkiou-KeramotisThe Church of Panagia Drossiani on Naxos: The church of the Panagia Drossiani, meaning Dewy Virgin, is the oldest Christian church of Naxos. Located near Moni, it is also considered one of the most important Byzantine churches and is therefore of immense historical significance. There are two different views on why it is called. One reason is that the location where it is built is called Drossia while others believe that the name refers to the icon of the church seeping or weeping every time the village is in danger. Hence the name Dewy Virgin.
The exact location of the church is in the middle of Naxos alongside the road to Apollonas. It dates back at the end of 6th century A.D. It is full of rare paintings and offers a beautiful view of the Tragea Valley. The dome shows Jesus Christ Pantokrator.
In front of the altar on the right side, you will see Agios Georgios on a horse with a little boy sitting behind him carrying water. The early iconostasis was made of marble. However, when that was pulled down, a wooden one was found behind it. The wooden one was made of a heavy kind of wood which may have been chestnut tree wood. It is decorated with an ancient style relief tendril. Its stem traces out wide waves and has big grapes and strange twin vine leaves.
The church has a lovely courtyard which also houses the cemetery of the village. Every year on Good Friday during the mid-day, this church bustles with locals from the village of Moni celebrating an old tradition of offering strong alcohol, raki, and bread with raisins and nuts to all the guests.
Naxos Archaeological Museum, Cyclades: The Archaeological Museum of Naxos is situated at the central square at the top of the Kastro. It is inside a beautiful 17th Century Venetian building, a perfect example of architecture during the Frankish period. It has five floors and was built to be a school for Jesuits eventually housing the School of Commerce in the late 19th Century and later becoming the Archaeological Museum in 1973 also being declared a historical monument since then.
All the findings of excavations carried out over the years are exhibited here at the Archaeological Museum. It houses everything from objects of everyday use to works of art dating from the Late Neolithic period to early Christian times. The Cycladic Civilization was at its peak of glory in the third millennium B.C and Naxos was a center of Cycladic art back then. Around this time there were Cycladic settlements along the east coast of Naxos and outside the town of Naxos at Grotta.
The museum houses an impressive collection of marble Cycladic statues, gold jewelry, vessels, marble and clay pots, wooden tools, funeral gifts that were found from the sites of these places. Many of the vessels are hand-made consisting of coarse grain clay sometimes decorated with a herringbone design.
The white marble Cycladic statues displayed here range from earlier simple violin shapes to the more detailed female forms with tilted flat heads, folded arms and legs slightly bent at the knees. The male forms are simpler and appear to be seated. Many scholars believe that this is because the female statues usually represented grave and fertility goddesses while the males were servant figures.
The museum also has an outstanding collection of Mycenaean pottery dating back to the second millennium B.C. Besides this, pottery, terra-cotta figurines and statues from the Bronze Age, Archaic period, Classical era, Roman Era and Hellenistic period can also be found here. Some of the interesting exhibits of the museum include:
• The Clay rhyton, a ritual vase form the early Cycladic period.
• A marble vase from the early Cycladic period.
• Vases from the early Cycladic period found on the island of Epano Koufonisi.
• Early Cycladic pyxis made of marble and schist from the cemetery at Aplomata
• Marble from early Cycladic era found at the cemetery at Keros
• Mycenaean jar found at the Aplomata cemetery decorated with an octopus design
• Mycenaean jug from the Kamini cemetery decorated with a scene of a circular dance.
• Four golden plaques retrieved from a child burial at the Kamini cemetery depicting the dead child.
• Golden jewelry from tombs at Tsikalario and Chora dated to the Geometric Period
• Torso of a Naxian kouros dated to the second half of the 6th Century B.C.
• Detail of a mosaic floor from Aplomata depicting a Nereid on a bull from the Roman period. Naxos has always been the center of art and architecture in Greece.
The Archaeological Museum has helped incredibly and beautifully to preserve this culture and history for the whole world to see for ages to come.
87 yerel halk öneriyor
Αρχαιολογικό Μουσείο Ναξου - Archaeological Museum of Naxos
3 Leof. Naxou EggaronNaxos Archaeological Museum, Cyclades: The Archaeological Museum of Naxos is situated at the central square at the top of the Kastro. It is inside a beautiful 17th Century Venetian building, a perfect example of architecture during the Frankish period. It has five floors and was built to be a school for Jesuits eventually housing the School of Commerce in the late 19th Century and later becoming the Archaeological Museum in 1973 also being declared a historical monument since then.
All the findings of excavations carried out over the years are exhibited here at the Archaeological Museum. It houses everything from objects of everyday use to works of art dating from the Late Neolithic period to early Christian times. The Cycladic Civilization was at its peak of glory in the third millennium B.C and Naxos was a center of Cycladic art back then. Around this time there were Cycladic settlements along the east coast of Naxos and outside the town of Naxos at Grotta.
The museum houses an impressive collection of marble Cycladic statues, gold jewelry, vessels, marble and clay pots, wooden tools, funeral gifts that were found from the sites of these places. Many of the vessels are hand-made consisting of coarse grain clay sometimes decorated with a herringbone design.
The white marble Cycladic statues displayed here range from earlier simple violin shapes to the more detailed female forms with tilted flat heads, folded arms and legs slightly bent at the knees. The male forms are simpler and appear to be seated. Many scholars believe that this is because the female statues usually represented grave and fertility goddesses while the males were servant figures.
The museum also has an outstanding collection of Mycenaean pottery dating back to the second millennium B.C. Besides this, pottery, terra-cotta figurines and statues from the Bronze Age, Archaic period, Classical era, Roman Era and Hellenistic period can also be found here. Some of the interesting exhibits of the museum include:
• The Clay rhyton, a ritual vase form the early Cycladic period.
• A marble vase from the early Cycladic period.
• Vases from the early Cycladic period found on the island of Epano Koufonisi.
• Early Cycladic pyxis made of marble and schist from the cemetery at Aplomata
• Marble from early Cycladic era found at the cemetery at Keros
• Mycenaean jar found at the Aplomata cemetery decorated with an octopus design
• Mycenaean jug from the Kamini cemetery decorated with a scene of a circular dance.
• Four golden plaques retrieved from a child burial at the Kamini cemetery depicting the dead child.
• Golden jewelry from tombs at Tsikalario and Chora dated to the Geometric Period
• Torso of a Naxian kouros dated to the second half of the 6th Century B.C.
• Detail of a mosaic floor from Aplomata depicting a Nereid on a bull from the Roman period. Naxos has always been the center of art and architecture in Greece.
The Archaeological Museum has helped incredibly and beautifully to preserve this culture and history for the whole world to see for ages to come.
Location: Halki
The church of Agios Georgios Diasoritis in Naxos Greece, Cyclades: Quite close to the picturesque village of Halki, in the path that leads towards the Monoitsia settlement, visitors can find a small yet impressive church that is dedicated to Saint George.
Built in an idyllic mountainous region, in the valley of Tragaia, the church is estimated to have been constructed upon the remains of an ancient temple and dates back to the 11th century. The architectural style it exhibits is quite rare for the region of Naxos, as it is a Byzantine edifice that belongs to the cruciform genre with symmetric lines and a dome. The church is built upon four columns and features impressive stone arches, as well as includes tombs, most of which are empty and pre-existed its resurgence.
What is most striking regarding the temple is its interior, which is evidently the work of a skillful artist. The enchanting frescoes are well-preserved to this day and impress with their colors as well as elaborate style and illustrations. The most prominent ones portray Saint George, the archangel Michael and Saint John, while others depict major celebrations of Christianity.
Byzantine church St George Diasoritis (Άγιος Γεώργιος Διασορίτης)
Location: Halki
The church of Agios Georgios Diasoritis in Naxos Greece, Cyclades: Quite close to the picturesque village of Halki, in the path that leads towards the Monoitsia settlement, visitors can find a small yet impressive church that is dedicated to Saint George.
Built in an idyllic mountainous region, in the valley of Tragaia, the church is estimated to have been constructed upon the remains of an ancient temple and dates back to the 11th century. The architectural style it exhibits is quite rare for the region of Naxos, as it is a Byzantine edifice that belongs to the cruciform genre with symmetric lines and a dome. The church is built upon four columns and features impressive stone arches, as well as includes tombs, most of which are empty and pre-existed its resurgence.
What is most striking regarding the temple is its interior, which is evidently the work of a skillful artist. The enchanting frescoes are well-preserved to this day and impress with their colors as well as elaborate style and illustrations. The most prominent ones portray Saint George, the archangel Michael and Saint John, while others depict major celebrations of Christianity.
Location: Filoti
The Cave of Zas in Naxos, Cyclades: The Cave of Zas is located at the western side of Mount Zas, at an altitude of 600 meters. According to the Greek mythology, God Zeus was raised here as he found shelter in the cave while he was prosecuted by his father, Kronus. Afterward, it was here that he was given the mighty lighting that made him ruler of Olympus and to honor him, the Naxians named the mountain as well as cave after him.
The cave exhibits unique geological interest. A 10 meters high and 2,5 meters wide gate leads to the impressive interior of the cave, that can reach 115 of height and 75 meters in width. The cave has imposing stalactites and stalagmites, while archaeological research in 1962 brought to light finding from various historical periods (Neolithic, Roman etc.) During the Ottoman Sovereignty, it was used as a refuge, and near the entrance, you can find the chapel of Zoodochos Pigi.
If you are interested in visiting the cave, you can choose between two different paths, one starting off Filoti and the other off Danakos village, near the church of Agia Marina. Special signs will provide you guidance, while near the cave you will find the fountain of Aries, with it crystal-clear, drinkable water. The view from the cave to the Aegean Sea is spectacular, while there are rich flora and fauna in the surrounding area.
67 yerel halk öneriyor
Mount Zas
Location: Filoti
The Cave of Zas in Naxos, Cyclades: The Cave of Zas is located at the western side of Mount Zas, at an altitude of 600 meters. According to the Greek mythology, God Zeus was raised here as he found shelter in the cave while he was prosecuted by his father, Kronus. Afterward, it was here that he was given the mighty lighting that made him ruler of Olympus and to honor him, the Naxians named the mountain as well as cave after him.
The cave exhibits unique geological interest. A 10 meters high and 2,5 meters wide gate leads to the impressive interior of the cave, that can reach 115 of height and 75 meters in width. The cave has imposing stalactites and stalagmites, while archaeological research in 1962 brought to light finding from various historical periods (Neolithic, Roman etc.) During the Ottoman Sovereignty, it was used as a refuge, and near the entrance, you can find the chapel of Zoodochos Pigi.
If you are interested in visiting the cave, you can choose between two different paths, one starting off Filoti and the other off Danakos village, near the church of Agia Marina. Special signs will provide you guidance, while near the cave you will find the fountain of Aries, with it crystal-clear, drinkable water. The view from the cave to the Aegean Sea is spectacular, while there are rich flora and fauna in the surrounding area.
Location: Rina
Rina cave is a beautiful sea cave located at the beach of the same name. It can be accessed by boat from Panermos beach or from a day cruise from Naxos port.
11 yerel halk öneriyor
Panormos
Location: Rina
Rina cave is a beautiful sea cave located at the beach of the same name. It can be accessed by boat from Panermos beach or from a day cruise from Naxos port.
Location: Agiassos
The chapel of Agios Sozon in Naxos Greece, Cyclades: Built upon the steep rock, seemingly hanging a few kilometers away from the bright blue waters of Agiassos bay in the southwest part of Naxos, the whitened chapel of Agios Sozon attracts many visitors as it shines brightly under the sun. The chapel is accessible by foot or by boat.
Traditionally regarded as the protector of sailors, Agios Sozon’s worship is to this day celebrated in island and coastal regions. His name actually translates in Greek as “the one who saves”. The small chapel with the cone-shaped dome is considered to date back to the Byzantine era, having been built as a vow of a merchant, who, during a shipwreck, swore to raise up a church in honor of Agios Sozon in case the grace of the Saint helped him survive the incident. Reportedly, as his merchandise was mainly wine and oil, he placed these ingredients in the foundations of the chapel.
Agios Sozon is accessible by taking the hiking path that begins from the beach of Agiassos, while you can also reach the chapel by boat.
Church Agios Sozon
Location: Agiassos
The chapel of Agios Sozon in Naxos Greece, Cyclades: Built upon the steep rock, seemingly hanging a few kilometers away from the bright blue waters of Agiassos bay in the southwest part of Naxos, the whitened chapel of Agios Sozon attracts many visitors as it shines brightly under the sun. The chapel is accessible by foot or by boat.
Traditionally regarded as the protector of sailors, Agios Sozon’s worship is to this day celebrated in island and coastal regions. His name actually translates in Greek as “the one who saves”. The small chapel with the cone-shaped dome is considered to date back to the Byzantine era, having been built as a vow of a merchant, who, during a shipwreck, swore to raise up a church in honor of Agios Sozon in case the grace of the Saint helped him survive the incident. Reportedly, as his merchandise was mainly wine and oil, he placed these ingredients in the foundations of the chapel.
Agios Sozon is accessible by taking the hiking path that begins from the beach of Agiassos, while you can also reach the chapel by boat.
Location: Town
Situated inside the Chora’s Castle (Kastro), near the Archaeological Museum, the Catholic Cathedral is an outstanding medieval monument that dates back in the 13th century.
Constructed during the Venetian rule, under the supervision of Markos Sanoudos, the original temple has been restored between 1500-1600 AD by the prominent Catholic families of Naxos, whose donations are preserved to this day. The temple exhibits particular historic and cultural interest, as it includes icons that combine western and eastern influences while a definite must-see is the prominent 11th century, a two-faceted icon of Virgin Mary and John the Baptist.
Catholic Church - Kaθολικη Μητροπολη
Location: Town
Situated inside the Chora’s Castle (Kastro), near the Archaeological Museum, the Catholic Cathedral is an outstanding medieval monument that dates back in the 13th century.
Constructed during the Venetian rule, under the supervision of Markos Sanoudos, the original temple has been restored between 1500-1600 AD by the prominent Catholic families of Naxos, whose donations are preserved to this day. The temple exhibits particular historic and cultural interest, as it includes icons that combine western and eastern influences while a definite must-see is the prominent 11th century, a two-faceted icon of Virgin Mary and John the Baptist.
Location: Kinidaros
The Garinou Spring is located in a valley behind Kinidaros village, about 40 minutes walk. It is a verdant place with many water turtles. It can be accessible by car but only a 4x4.
Garinou Spring
Location: Kinidaros
The Garinou Spring is located in a valley behind Kinidaros village, about 40 minutes walk. It is a verdant place with many water turtles. It can be accessible by car but only a 4x4.
Location: Abram
The Tower of Agia in Naxos Greece, Cyclades: Located at the area of Agia, in the northern part of Naxos island, the renowned Tower of Agia is an edifice of special historic interest. The tower is easily accessible as it is situated near the coastal road, just 6 miles before arriving at the village of Apollonas from the Chora of Naxos, while its strategic location provides a spectacular view to the Aegean Sea.The exact year of its resurgence is not known, however, it is estimated that the imposing tower was built during the 17th century and is an architectural example of the post-Byzantine era. Following the tradition of other buildings of the tower genre that were extensively built around the Cyclades during the years of the Venetian and Ottoman sovereignty, the tower of Agia was originally the resort home of the Kokkoi family. At that time, wealthy families would retreat to summer houses from late spring until late autumn, followed by servants who would take up the household and agricultural operations.
The seemingly remote location of the tower is not irrelevant, as towers were usually built in places that would not be easily accessible in case of pirate attack so to ensure the protection of the residents - as well as the best possible supervision of the sea. In the surrounding area, one can find remainings of the old oil press and warehouses, while the tower itself is in a semi-ramshackle state, due to a fire that severely destroyed its interior in 1992. The original building was made of Naxian stone and was not elaborately decorated. It featured three levels, and visitors can still enter to the second floor through a steep staircase. The floors were wooden, using “fida”, a species of wild cypress that has soundproof qualities. In a small distance, built at an altitude of 220 meters, visitors can also see the Monastery of Agia, which is dedicated to the Holy Mary.
Agia Tower
ΝαξουLocation: Abram
The Tower of Agia in Naxos Greece, Cyclades: Located at the area of Agia, in the northern part of Naxos island, the renowned Tower of Agia is an edifice of special historic interest. The tower is easily accessible as it is situated near the coastal road, just 6 miles before arriving at the village of Apollonas from the Chora of Naxos, while its strategic location provides a spectacular view to the Aegean Sea.The exact year of its resurgence is not known, however, it is estimated that the imposing tower was built during the 17th century and is an architectural example of the post-Byzantine era. Following the tradition of other buildings of the tower genre that were extensively built around the Cyclades during the years of the Venetian and Ottoman sovereignty, the tower of Agia was originally the resort home of the Kokkoi family. At that time, wealthy families would retreat to summer houses from late spring until late autumn, followed by servants who would take up the household and agricultural operations.
The seemingly remote location of the tower is not irrelevant, as towers were usually built in places that would not be easily accessible in case of pirate attack so to ensure the protection of the residents - as well as the best possible supervision of the sea. In the surrounding area, one can find remainings of the old oil press and warehouses, while the tower itself is in a semi-ramshackle state, due to a fire that severely destroyed its interior in 1992. The original building was made of Naxian stone and was not elaborately decorated. It featured three levels, and visitors can still enter to the second floor through a steep staircase. The floors were wooden, using “fida”, a species of wild cypress that has soundproof qualities. In a small distance, built at an altitude of 220 meters, visitors can also see the Monastery of Agia, which is dedicated to the Holy Mary.
Location: Egares
The olive tree is an inextricable part of the Greek culture, gastronomy, and history. In Naxos, the production of olive oil and its by-products was a major part of the economy and everyday life, and “liotrivia” (olive press houses) were numerous. The Olive Press Museum is hosted in a renovated olive press building in Eggares village, which is located at the western part of the island, under 8 kilometers from Chora. The original building dates back to the mid 19th century and was operating until 1960, while now it has been fully restored and transfers the visitor to an authentic, traditional era. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the history of the olive tree, olive press techniques as well as soap making and other uses of olive oil and its by-products.The Museum has a free entrance as well as provides guided tours and it is open to the audience on a yearly basis from the 1st of April to the 30th of September, from 9:00 to 18:00. For more info, please visit www.olivemuseum.com.
17 yerel halk öneriyor
Eggares Olive Press Museum
Location: Egares
The olive tree is an inextricable part of the Greek culture, gastronomy, and history. In Naxos, the production of olive oil and its by-products was a major part of the economy and everyday life, and “liotrivia” (olive press houses) were numerous. The Olive Press Museum is hosted in a renovated olive press building in Eggares village, which is located at the western part of the island, under 8 kilometers from Chora. The original building dates back to the mid 19th century and was operating until 1960, while now it has been fully restored and transfers the visitor to an authentic, traditional era. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the history of the olive tree, olive press techniques as well as soap making and other uses of olive oil and its by-products.The Museum has a free entrance as well as provides guided tours and it is open to the audience on a yearly basis from the 1st of April to the 30th of September, from 9:00 to 18:00. For more info, please visit www.olivemuseum.com.
Location: Damarionas
Panagia tis Spilias (Virgin of the cave) is a church built in a cave, located in the area of Xerokampos, near Damarionas village. Upon entering the small cave, one can see a collection of various icons and votive offerings that are placed beneath an imposing natural stone formation.
According to a local legend, a maiden coming from a local noble family found this cave while seeking refuge to protect herself from armed pirates that were persecuting her. Inside the cave she found two icons -one of them depicting Virgin Mary. She prayed to Virgin Mary and promised that she would build a church if she was saved. As if by miracle, the pirates passed by the cave and did not see her. So the girl built the front entrance to thank Virgin Mary and the small church remains well-preserved to this day.
Παναγία της Σπηλιάς / Δαμαριώνας Ναξος
Location: Damarionas
Panagia tis Spilias (Virgin of the cave) is a church built in a cave, located in the area of Xerokampos, near Damarionas village. Upon entering the small cave, one can see a collection of various icons and votive offerings that are placed beneath an imposing natural stone formation.
According to a local legend, a maiden coming from a local noble family found this cave while seeking refuge to protect herself from armed pirates that were persecuting her. Inside the cave she found two icons -one of them depicting Virgin Mary. She prayed to Virgin Mary and promised that she would build a church if she was saved. As if by miracle, the pirates passed by the cave and did not see her. So the girl built the front entrance to thank Virgin Mary and the small church remains well-preserved to this day.