Naxos, Kastromonastiro

Naxos ορ Axia is the largest island of the Cyclades in the Aegean Sea.Its surface is 435 sq. km. and has a coastline of 91 km. There are many beautiful villages, like Apeiranthos, Filoti, Chryssi, Apollon and more of the most beautiful beaches of the Mediterranean, like Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, Mikri Vigla, Kastraki, Aliko, Moutsouna etc.

The island has been inhabited since prehistoric and neolithic times, flourished during the classical period and then during the Byzantine and the Frankish period was the centre of the commerce in all Aegean sea. Samples of the culture that developed there throughout the island, including Portara at the port of Hora and two statues of Kouros, of gigantic proportions, near the villages of Apollonas and Melanies, in their propre position. Interesting archeological areas are Iraeo (temple dedicated to Hera) and Gyroulas with the temple of Demetra and important byzantine churches.

In Hora there is the Frankish Castle and the Catholic Metropolis (Cathedral). Till nowadays Naxos, Syros and Tinos are the islands with the most catholic people of Greece.

Naxos is famous for its products, especially art of weaving, meals, excellent local cheeses, potatoes, capers, honey and regiomal drinks (liqueurs).

The island has good enough roads and is a popular touristic destination, with many hotels and facilities.

(text by C. Theodorou)