Astypalea
is like two islands that are joined with
a strip of land into one. Its resemblance with a butterfly makes it unique and
unusual. Unspoiled by mass tourism but
pretty hospitable for everyone.
Mythology
about Astypalea
According
to Greek mythology, Astypalea and Europe were the daughters of Finikos and
Perimidis.
Because of
its aromatic flowers and fruit, the Ancient Greeks called it "the Gods
Bank".
Astypalea
was the birthplace of the famous athlete, Kleomedes, who, according to myth,
defeated Eccos in wrestling during the first Olympics, by killing him with a
single punch.
Getting
there
By boat
There is
connection with the island of Astypalea from the port of Piraeus as well as
with other nearby ports.
By air
You can
reach Astypalea by plane from Athens.
Accommodation
The island has
at its disposal a great variety of hotels, apartments and studios in Chora
which is the main village of Astypalea as well as in the picturesque Livadi bay
and Gialos bay. Apartments that offer a unique view of the famous castle or
studios with view over the Aegean Sea, they constitute ideal options for
families, couples or group.
Beaches
Livadi Beach
It is a
large beach with sand and fine pebbles. Livadi Beach is the most popular beach
of Astypalaia. You can find restaurants, taverns, coffee shops, club, mini
market as well as sun beds and umbrellas for rent.
Pera Gialos
Beach
It is
situated close to Chora. The bathers can enjoy the swimming in the clear waters
and the sunbathing. There are coffee shops where tourists can buy cold refreshments
and light snacks.
Maltezana
beach
Maltezana
(or Analipsi) village has a wonderful beach where you can find restaurants,
taverns, coffee shops as well as fishing boats to buy fresh fishes. It attracts
most of the island’s tourism. Its name comes from the Maltese pirates who made their shelter on
the island. This is where the French Admiral Bigot set his ship on fire in 1827
so that it may not be captured by the pirates.
You will,
of course, find several other beaches, equally alluring with crystal clear
waters on the island.
Sightseeing
Venetian Castle
Astypalea's
Castle, is built on the ruins of Ancient Acropolis, at the hill's top and is
also called the “Castle of Querini”, named after the Venetian family that ruled
the island until 1522. The family coat of arms still stands over its central
gate.
Outside, visitors can view the stone
fortification walls and the embrasures that protected the island from pirates.
Inside the castle, through narrow labyrinthine
passageways, one can reach the houses of the Querini family which were occupied
until 1956. Of particular note are the two beautiful old churches of Panagia
Kastrou and Agios Georgios. The church of Panagia Kastrou was built in 1790.
Archaeological
Museum
It is
situated in Skala. The collection
exhibits findings from the prehistoric Mycenaean period to the Middle
Ages. Some of the findings are: a marble
coat of arms of the Querini, clay vessels, jewellery and tools from Mycenaean
tombs, silver coins of the Classical Period and of course several other things.
The Church
of Panagia Portaitissa
This church stands near the Castle of
Astypalea in “Rodia”, which took its name from the tree which used to be
nearby. According to tradition, it was built by St. Anthimos in the 18th
century. Outside, one can admire its lace-looking dome, giving a unique beauty
to the sacred building, and its imposing stone bell-tower. Inside, a valuable
wood-carved screen is embellished with gold sheets right where the icon of the
Virgin is placed; this is thought to be a copy of the icon in the Monastery of
Irini in Mt. Athos.
Festival
Many
concerts with contemporary Greek singers are held from June to October.
Religious
feasts
The
celebration of Holy Mary, takes place every year in the monastery of Portaitissa on the 15th of
August. It lasts three days with traditional music and food.
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