Original Greece is an amazing country, presenting many new discoveries. The cradle of European civilization with a rich history harmoniously combines the ancient spirit and the most modern achievements of mankind. The sunny Mediterranean fairy tale is a relaxed vacation and fascinating excursions to the many islands of Greece, the sights of which make the country's image unique.
Cyclades created by Poseidon
The archipelago in the southern Aegean Sea is an extremely picturesque region. It consists of 2,200 islands, of which only about 30 are inhabited. Land plots form a circle, and in its center is Delos (Dilos) - the birthplace of the sun lord Apollo and his sister Artemis.
Cyclades are rocky islands, decorated with colorful villages and surrounded by an endless sea. Their name comes from the Greek word "circle" given to the archipelago for its location around Delos. Locals pass on the legend from generation to generation, according to which the terrible god of the sea Poseidon, angry with the daring nymphs of a paradise, turned them into the Cyclades islands. But in fact they are the peaks of the Aegean massif plunged into the sea 5 million years ago.
Branch of heaven on earth
This is indeed a blissful corner where tranquility and harmony reign. Here, almost 300 days a year, the dazzling sun shines, and the sea surface sparkling with hundreds of glare is remarkable for its amazing beauty, which no photograph can convey. They come to the Cyclades islands, considered the greenest in the Aegean, in search of an earthly paradise, and all travelers find it here. This is an ideal refuge for those who are tired of all the charms of civilization. No smog, crowding and crowds! Only excellent weather, the cleanest sand underfoot, the boundless azure sea, in which the blue sky is reflected.
Important finds on Keros
The Cycladic islands, located not far from each other, attract tourists not only with magnificent beaches, but also with a rich cultural heritage. Archaeologists constantly work here, drawing conclusions about life in ancient Greece. So, on the small Keros, the area of โโwhich is only 15 km 2 , the ruins of buildings of the early Kylak period were found.
Once a desert island was the center of a powerful civilization. Scientists from the Euphrates of Antiquities of the Cyclades Islands (an organization owned by the Ministry of Culture and engaged in the preservation of the country's rich heritage) discovered fragments of marble figures shattered to smithereens. According to the most conservative estimates, the statuettes are about 4 thousand years old. It is believed that this island was chosen as the burial place of ritual objects. In addition, ruins of buildings were found whose age exceeds the age of the palaces of the Minoan civilization of Crete, and traces of drainage channels where metal processing was carried out.
Color of the archipelago
The most popular among the Cyclades in Greece are Santorini and Mykonos. The villages of the archipelago cause a real delight among tourists: the snow-white facades of residential houses with colorful doors and windows, small churches with bright blue domes, colorful windmills make an indelible impression.
It is unusual devices powered by the wind that are considered one of the main attractions of the islands. Windmills, first appeared in the XIII century, on the archipelago of about 600. Devices resembling towers with powerful outstretched wings process up to 100 kilograms of wheat per hour.
Romantic santorini
Santorini is not in vain recognized as the most romantic island on our planet. It gained incredible popularity among travelers due to the volcano extinct even before our era, the eruption of which led to the flooding of part of the land and the formation of a picturesque crater. You can sail to its center on a cruise ship, and then take a walk along the rocks framing a depression at the top of a giant erupted by burning lava.
Black sand beaches, amazing in their beauty , low pretty houses, unique landscapes make the rest here unforgettable. Santorini's hallmark is snow-white windmills with thatched roofs and huge blades. Now the giants are not used for their intended purpose: they were repaired and turned into cozy cafes and modern exhibition halls.
Fashionable Mykonos
Only two hours by sea, and tourists will find the original Mykonos, recognized as the most expensive resort, which attracts many celebrities. Covered with hills decorated with dense greenery, it amazes the guests. The capital of "Greek Venice" is the city of Chora (Mykonos), famous for winding narrow streets, in the maze of which you can even get lost, and unique architecture. This layout allowed the townspeople to escape from pirate raids.
The most favorite place for walking among tourists is the historical center, reminiscent of an Italian city, built in a lagoon on numerous islands. Cozy houses are located on the water, and from the balconies you can dive right into the sea. A marvelous corner saturated with the atmosphere of romance evokes the only desire - to return here again.
The real treasure of Greece
Sacred Delos is the main attraction of the Cyclades. An island in Greece, considered the true gem of the country, holds ancient monuments erected in honor of Apollo. Once ฮฮฎฮปฮฟฯ acted as a link between different cities, uniting the Ionian Greeks. The center of the Attic Maritime Union has always been a wealthy metropolis, since the Roman Empire granted it the status of a free port. A tax-free first European trade zone developed economically, and only with the spread of Christianity did the city begin to die out.
Walking through the uninhabited land of the gods
You can get to the treasure (which is exactly how the name of the island is translated) from Mykonos, which has a connection with the mainland. Only half an hour and tourists will be able to walk on the land, which is now uninhabited. It is forbidden to depart from trodden paths, since Delos, protected by UNESCO, was chosen by snakes. Ancient poets called him "the unshakable diva of the whole world." The glory of the homeland of Apollo and Artemis and the beautiful harbor, which became the safest place for ships, was so great that the attacking enemies did not plunder the divine cloister.
Open-air museum
Revered along with Olympus and Delphi, Delos is an archaeological area in which it is forbidden to stay for the night, and all excursions are made in the afternoon. The open-air museum attracts tourists who adore the legends and myths of ancient Greece. The place, distinguished by its delightful silence, actually consists of archaeological sites. Guests can explore the ancient city with the ruins of pagan temples and ancient theater, see altars and chapels dedicated to the gods.
Travelers admire the temple of Apollo, which once housed his sculpture, as well as gold and other valuable relics, and the sanctuary erected in honor of Artemis. The Lviv road passed right there, decorated with huge marble sculptures of carnivorous animals. The archaeological museum is located here, and its exhibits tell about the life and life of the ancient Greeks. A boat trip to Delos (Cyclades Islands, Greece) is an exciting adventure and new discoveries that will appeal to history buffs.
Secret corners in the Aegean
Holidays in Greek Polynesia will be appreciated even by the most demanding tourists. Particular attention should be paid to the so-called Small Cyclades (Greece) - a chain of 12 islands located between Ios, Naxos and Amorgos. This is a secret place with pristine nature and exotic beaches.
All islands are connected to each other, so you can land on any of them. The largest are Keros, Schinus, Donus, Heraclius and Koufonisia. The corners of paradise inhabited in prehistoric times were recently recalled, and soon tourists reached out, who appreciated their fabulous beauty. All those who dream of a relaxing holiday in the lap of nature should visit the pearls of the Aegean world, which keep many secrets.
Tips of experienced travelers
According to tourists, the most economical way to travel to the islands and cities of Greece is to use the ferry. It is worth remembering that it passes by Delos and Mykonos, and the main ports are Naxos and Paros. Ferries take on board up to 350 passengers and accommodate 12 cars. The only island that can only be reached by bus from Athens is Andros. In addition, Naxos and Amorgos go skopelitis, which is a tiny little vessel that can withstand a strong storm.
On the islands themselves, a popular vehicle is a car that does not restrict tourists in choosing a route.
The peak tourist season falls in July and August. At the height of summer, local beaches are not crowded, so it is best to come here in late spring or autumn (in September or October). The weather is warm at this time, and there are not so many tourists.
Since the archipelago is a very popular holiday destination, tourists who decide to spend their holidays in the Cyclades should worry about tickets in advance. Locals also enjoy visiting resorts in the heart of the Aegean.
When traveling around the islands, you should buy a special card that will allow you not to buy a new ticket every time for a ferry ride.
Cyclades Islands of Greece: reviews
This is the most grateful archipelago for those who love to travel, moving from one island to another. Tourists even admit that the land plots located in a round dance around the sacred Delos, are a small universe, living by its own rules.
Each island, which can be fully explored in a few days, has its own traditions and customs. The unique and at the same time not without similarities corners created for a relaxing holiday, attract foreign visitors with expressive landscapes and unique sights.
The local color leaves a lasting impression, and guests, fascinated by the architecture in blue and white colors and the slowed-down rhythm of life, seem to fall into another dimension. And multi-colored volcanic beaches marked with symbols of the international standard for water quality, and the hotels located above them complement the overall picture.
In addition, tourists who come to admire Christian churches often come to the islands of Greece, where 95% of the inhabitants profess Christianity. Entrance to religious sites is free for all.
Where else to go?
Judging by the reviews, the Cyclades islands are an ideal place for relaxation, where blissful silence reigns and the gentle sun shines. Here time flows slowly, clean sea air is surprisingly gentle, and the locals are distinguished by special hospitality.
You should definitely visit the following pearls lost in the Aegean:
- Milos is an island with a volcanic landscape. Having gained world fame as the place where the statue of Aphrodite (Venus of Milos) was found, he can boast of ancient historical monuments and developed tourist infrastructure.
- Sifnos, which will surprise with the delightful beauties of traditional architecture and pristine nature. Unique examples of Cycladic architecture, Christian churches and chapels, which are scattered throughout the island, will delight every traveler.
- The tiny Anafi with a population of 300 people will appeal to lovers of a relaxing holiday. Superb beaches, stunning panoramic views, windmills and the ruins of the Venetian fortress are the main attractions of the island.
- Tinos, adjacent to Andros, is part of the Cyclades in Greece. A photo of an authentic place where tourists rarely appear, evoke the only desire - to instantly be in a paradise. This is the sacred island of the Virgin Mary, hosting pilgrims. On August 15, the Church of the Virgin Mary is overflowing with believers, hurrying to receive a blessing. Each guest is in the center of a noisy holiday that lasts several days.
Surprisingly, there is a theory according to which many scientists consider the Cyclades islands to be fragments of Atlantis, a mythical state that disappeared into the depths of the sea. It is backed up by the works of Socrates and Plato, and you can check the guesses yourself by going on a trip that promises a lot of interesting things.