Discover Amorgos

The Capital of Amorgos

The Settlement of Hora is the capital of Amorgos located on the central part of the island. The medieval settlement has an authentic atmosphere with whitewashed houses and stone windmills amongst the labyrinthine alleys. The central square of Loza is one of the most charming spots of Hora dominated from the Venetian Kastro. The Hora of Amorgos is considered as one of the most beautiful villages of the Cyclades that has been designated as a preserved settlement.

The Archaeological Site of Minoa 

The Archaeological Site of Minoa is one of the three ancient cities of Amorgos located on the hill of Moundoulia above the settlement of Katapola. Archaeological excavations have brought to light the remains of a settlement revealing evidence that the area was constantly populated since the tenth century BC.  The most important findings include the remnants of the acropolis along with the traces of the defensive wall from the Geometric period, the building of the Gymnasium, the foundations of a sanctuary and the remains of a Hellenistic temple.

The Bay of Liveros 

The Bay of Liveros is a rocky beach with turquoise waters located on the southwest side of the island. The shipwreck of Olympia is located at the beach. Liveros is accessible through the bus to Paradisia beach where you should stop there and head back towards the road and take the first turning on your right to Kalotiratissa. After a walk of thirty minutes, you will be thrilled from the wild beauty of the shipwreck.

The Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa 

The Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa is one of the most beautiful religious and historical sites of the Aegean built into the face of a cliff above the beach of Agia Anna. The monastery has a timeless beauty characterized from unique architecture. It was built from Alexius Comnenus during the 11^th century. Although accessibility to the monastery might be challenging, the view is really rewarding, as it is one of the best views of the Aegean. The monastery celebrates in honour of the saint on November 21.

The Isles of Nikouria and Gramvousa 

The Isle of Nikouria and the Isle of Gramvousa are two deserted islands located on the north side of the island. The isles are characterized from sceneries of pristine natural beauty. You will be charmed from the turquoise waters of the beaches of Nikouria and Gramvousa. Excursion boats operate from the beach of Agios Pavlos , the bay of Kalotiratissa and the harbour of Katapola to the isles of Nikouria and Gramvousa.

The Village of Asfondylitis 

The Village of Asfondylitis is a monument of the rural architecture of Amorgos located in the middle of Megali Strata, the path that connects Hora with Aegiali. Asfondylitis has rich folklore and historical interest as seen from the deserted stone houses and the paintings on the carved rocks. The church of Agios Nikolaos adds a special touch to the deserted settlement.

The Archaeological Site of Aegiali was one of the three ancient cities of Amorgos located on the hill of Vigla close to the village of Tholaria. Archaeological excavations have brought to light important structural remnants and inscriptions carved in the rocks. The relics of a tower of the Hellenistic times are located close to the ancient town.

The Archaeological Site of Arkesini was one of the three ancient cities of Amorgos located on the hill of Kastella close to the village of Kato Meria. Although archaeological excavations have not been conducted in the area, a series of important findings have been found which are displayed in the Archaeological Collection of Amorgos. Inside the site, the Tower of Agia Triada is found which is one of the best-preserved towers in the area of the Cyclades.

The Archaeological Site of Minoa is one of the three ancient cities of Amorgos located on the hill of Moundoulia above the settlement of Katapola. Archaeological excavations have brought to light the remains of a settlement revealing evidence that the area was constantly populated since the tenth century BC.  The most important findings include the remnants of the acropolis along with the traces of the defensive wall from the Geometric period, the building of the Gymnasium, the foundations of a sanctuary and the remains of a Hellenistic temple.

The Castle of Amorgos dominated the capital of the island. The castle was founded from the Venetians in the beginning of the 13^th century in order to protect Amorgos from potential pirate invasions.

The Cistern of Kato Lakkos is located in Hora. It is a medieval cistern that used to supply the town with water. The initial use of the cistern corresponded with the first organized habitation of Hora in the byzantine times.

The Secondary School of Amorgos is located in Hora. This is the first high school that was founded in Greece following the Revolution of 1821. The school was originally built in June 1829 on the expense of the Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa.

The Tower of Gavras is located at the center of Hora. The tower was built from the Venetians in the 16^th century. The tower is characterised for its outstanding architecture and today it houses the Archaeological Museum of Amorgos.

The Chapel of Agia Anna is one of the most beautiful chapels of Amorgos. The chapel is built on a rock by the homonymous beach.  The beautiful chapel distinguishes for its pure traditional Cycladic style.

The Chapel of Agios Georgios Valsamitis is located on the top of a hill at the southern side of the island on the way to Kamari. The chapel was built in the 17^th century. It is whitewashed chapel with a beautiful cobblestone courtyard that offers breathtaking views over the surrounding areas. Inside the chapel, one can admire a lovely iconostasis.

The Chapel of Agia Triada is located above the settlement of Lagada. The cavernous chapel was used as a shelter from pirate invasions. Here, one can admire panoramic views over the Gulf of Aegiali.

The Church of Kyra Eleousa is one of the most beautiful churches of Amorgos located in Hora. It is believed that the church was constructed during the byzantine times. Inside the church, one can admire numerous interesting icons of the Cretan School, out of which the icon of Panagia Glikofilousa stands out.

The Church of Panagia Katapoliani is located in Katapola. The beautiful church distinguishes for its pure traditional Cycladic style. According to historians, the church was built on the traces of an ancient temple dedicated to Apollo.

The Church of Agios Giannis Theologos is the oldest monastery of the Amorgos located on a plateau on mount Krikelos. According to tradition, the church was built from a seaman who made a solemn promise for his ship to be saved when he was sailing on adangerous sea area close to Aegiali. It is worth joining the festivals that are organized in the church on May 8 and September 8. The monastery is accessible through a hiking path from the region of Lagada.

The Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa is one of the most beautiful religious and historical sites of the Aegean built into the face of a cliff above the beach of Agia Anna. The monastery has a timeless beauty characterized from unique architecture. It was built from Alexius Comnenus during the 11^th century. Although accessibility to the monastery might be challenging, the view is really rewarding, as it is one of the best views of the Aegean. The monastery celebrates in honour of the saint on November 21.

The Archaeological Museum of Amorgos is housed in the Tower of Gavras at Hora. The museum exhibits findings from the archaeological excavation of Amorgos.

The Ecclesiastical Museum of Amorgos is housed inside the monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa. The museum exhibits byzantine ecclesiastical artefacts including portable icons, liturgical vestments and carved wooden crosses along with a series of manuscripts.

Aegiali is the second largest harbour of Amorgos located on the northeast side of the island. It has an authentic atmosphere and a traditional character, as it is a true specimen of the Cycladic architectural style. A series of hiking trails have as a starting point the village of Aegiali. The village is known as the nightlife spot of Amorgos. The whitewashed houses and the cobblestone alleys of the settlement will captivate you with its authentic traditional atmosphere.

Arkesini is one of the oldest settlements of Amorgos located on the southwest side of the island. The main occupation of the islanders is cattle breeding and fishing. The authentic traditional character of Arkesini is evident from the beautiful whitewashed houses and the colourful courtyards. The village is renowned for its delicious taverns!

Asfondylitis is a monument of the rural architecture of Amorgos located in the middle of Megali Strata, the path that connects Hora with Aegiali. Asfondylitis has rich folklore and historical interest as seen from the deserted stone houses and the paintings on the carved rocks. The church of Agios Nikolaos adds a special touch to the deserted settlement.

Hora is the capital of Amorgos located on the central part of the island. The medieval settlement has an authentic atmosphere with whitewashed houses and stone windmills amongst the labyrinthine alleys. The central square of Loza is one of the most charming spots of Hora dominated from the Venetian Kastro. The Hora of Amorgos is considered as one of the most beautiful villages of the Cyclades that has been designated as a preserved settlement.

Katapola is the main harbour of Amorgos located on the north side of the island. The beautiful settlement has an authentic traditional atmosphere as seen fro the whitewashed houses in the colours of blue and white and the glorious Venetian Castle. The harbour lies in the most verdurous part of Amorgos and it is considered to be one of the biggest natural harbours of the Aegean

Kalofana is an agricultural village located n the south side of the island. The beautiful settlement has a tranquil atmosphere ideal for those looking for tranquillity and seclusion. The surrounding area of Kalofana offers numerous trails for hiking enthusiasts.

Kamari is a mountainous village located on the east side of the island. It is one of the most authentic villages of Amorgos that has managed to preserve its traditional character. The stone houses and the cobblestone alleys of the settlement will captivate you with its authentic traditional atmosphere. One can also visit the ancient acropolis of Arkesini. The surrounding area of the village is ideal for hiking lovers.

Lagada is a mountainous village located on the north side of the island. The village combines the beautiful mountainsides with the panoramic views over the Aegean. The neighbouring village of Stroumbos is a small settlement characterized from the traditional architecture and the beautiful atmosphere. The village offers panoramic views as it is lying in a scenic setting above the gorge. You can also cross the gorge of Araklos and visit the tiny chapel of Prophet Elias at the top of a steep hill.

Potamos is a mountainous village located on the northwest side of the island. The beautiful settlement is ideal for those looking for tranquillity and isolation. The village has a peaceful atmosphere ideal for moments of relaxation with spectacular sunsets over the endless blue.

Tholaria is a mountainous village located on the northwest side of the island. The settlement is a beautiful sample of the traditional architecture of the Cyclades. The village has an authentic traditional character and one can enjoy moments of relaxation at the beautiful beaches of Levrosos, Hohlakas and Psili Ammos.

Spot: Archaeological Site of Minoa, North Amorgos

Spot: Castle of Amorgos, Central Amorgos

Spot: Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, East Amorgos

Spot: Village of Potamos, Northwest Amorgos

Boat Trip: The Isle of Nikouria and the Isle of Gramvousa are two deserted islands located on the north side of the island. The isles are characterized from sceneries of pristine natural beauty. You will be charmed from the turquoise waters of the beaches of Nikouria and Gramvousa. Excursion boats operate from the beach of Agios Pavlos , the bay of Kalotiratissa and the harbour of Katapola to the isles of Nikouria and Gramvousa.

Boat trip: The Island of Donousa is a tiny island of just thirteen square kilometres, which, as the locals say, you can walk around it on foot. The natural terrain of the island boasts steep cliffs plunging into the sea while interesting hiking paths of the inland are passing through old farmhouses and rural churches lead to beautiful beaches with emerald waters. The island exhales a serene landscape of an indented coastline in the northeastern part and wonderful sandy beaches on the southern part. Some of the most beautiful seashores of the Cycladic coastline are spreading at this island that will make you want to spend there the rest of your journey. So if you are from those travellers who want to escape and experience something different, Donousa is the island for you.

Boat trip: The Island of Heraklia is a diamond shaped island of the Small Cyclades lying between the islands of Ios and Naxos. In an island of a hundred fifty inhabitants, the permanent peace of Heraklia is swinging in the air. When you arrive at the charming harbor of Agios Georgios, you feel like you have disembarked from a time machine boat travelling to the past. .Heraklia is a tranquil island embellished from pristine mysterious beauty with scenic bays and crystalline waters with shipwrecks surrounded from smooth hills on a simple Cycladic architectural landscape of whitewashed houses and charming chapels. Maybe it’s the time for you to be charmed from the simplicity of virgin nature and the magic of tardiness liberating the freedom of living.

Boat trip: The Islands of Koufonisia are two mysterious dots sail carefree in the the Aegean Sea. Ano Koufonisi is a charming island embellished with whitewashed houses of Cycladic architecture surrounded from golden beaches and crystal emerald and turquoise waters.  Whatever Koufonisia lacks in size, it replenish in landscapes and colors; besides they say less is more. The peacefulness of Ano Koufonisi emits an astonishingly mystic atmosphere spreading over an area of just four square kilometers while the wilderness of Kato Koufonisi releases a relaxing Cycladic aura surrounded from the sapphire waters of the sea with the shadow of the Cycladic silhouette of the island of Keros hiding in the deep sea. The boundless blue of the Aegean is matching with the white and blue houses of Koufonisia creating a magical atmosphere. Koufonisia are a paradise of natural beauty boasting a unique geomorphology with steep rocky shores and coves surrounded from beaches of tropical beauty with golden sand and emerald waters. An island blessed with strips of golden sand interchanging with wave carved rocks and the wild sight of caves, a beautiful escape to the unknown.

Boat Trip: The Island of Schinoussa possesses a special energy that will make you appreciate the simple moments in life. The feeling of calmness is definitely one of a kind. The harmonic sceneries of the island will undoubtedly fulfill your every day. Schinoussa is a place you will find peace of mind while the simplicity and kindness of the local people will make you feel like you become part of their lives. The beauty of Schinoussa is a mysterious puzzle. Are you eager to discover? All you need is time and patience. The tops of the higher hills offer panoramic views of the surrounding areas. Just with a single glimpse, you will enjoy an astonishing picture of the islands of Amorgos, Ios, Iraklia, Keros, Koufonisia, Naxos, Santorini and Serifos. Just lying there in the incrediblue. The indented coastline of Schinoussa is blessed with the magic of the deep blue. Staring at the endless horizon of the sea elicits an indescribable feeling of freedom. Although Schinoussa is a small island, you will always find a place to isolate yourself to feel peace and tranquillity.   Fresh air, hospitable people, beautiful sceneries and the feeling of serenity; what else you might need?

Diving: The varied coastline of Amorgos offers numerous exciting explorations for diving enthusiasts. The cavern of Nikouria Isle, the shipwreck of Manina Three, the reef of Gramvonisi Isle, the crystal waters of Aegiali Bay, the Deep Blue Wall, the caves of Sparti and the Old Mines of Amorgos are some of the most interesting diving spots. You will find a diving center in the harbour of Aegiali.

Hiking: Amorgos hosts numerous paths ideal for lovers of hiking. (1) One of the most beautiful routes is the route of Palea Strata that starts from Hora and passes through the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, the villages of Kapsala, Asfondylitis and Potamos and leads to the bay of Aegiali. (2) Another interesting route is the route of Fotodotis that starts from Hora and passes through Milies and Agia Irini leading to harbour of Katapola. (3) The route of Itonia is also quite interesting. The route starts from the area of Lefkes and passes through the areas of Agioi Saranta, Kamari, Ancient Arkesini, Vroutsi, Rahoula and leads to the Tower of Agia Triada at Arkesini. (4) One can also follow the route of Valsamitis. The route starts from the harbour of Katapola and passes through the church of Agios Georgios Valsamitis and leads to the archaeological site of Minoa. (5) Another interesting route includes the route of Melania. This starts from the bay of Aegiali and passes through the areas of Lagada, Stroumbos and Panagia Epanohoriani and leads to the village of Tholaria.

Rock Climbing: Are you a climbing enthusiast? The mountainous island of Amorgos is ideal for you! The Rock Climbing Centre of Amorgos will provide you with all the information and equipment you need!

Agia Anna is a sandy beach with crystal clean waters and rocky formations with surrounded from the charming chapel of Agia Anna. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Amorgos. The beach is ideal for those looking for relaxation and seclusion. Agia Anna offers panoramic views of the endless blue.

Agios Panteleimonas is a sandy beach with dark blue waters located close to the harbour of Katapola. The beach is accessible either by foot from the area Ksilokeratidi or by a boat from Katapola.

Agios Pavlos is white sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the northern side of the island. The beach is partially organized with a nice restaurant. Excursion boats operate to the island of Nikouria from the beach.

Aigiali is a sandy beach with emerald waters located on the northwest side of the island. It is the longest beach of Amorgos with numerous amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas, taverns and snack bars.

Ammoudi, else known as Kambi, is a dark pebbled beach with blue waters and high cliffs located on the east side of the island. The beach is ideal for those looking for seclusion and tranquillity.

Fokiotripa is one of the most beautiful beaches of the island located on the northwest side of the island. It is a secluded sandy beach with turquoise waters surrounded from steep cliffs. Fokiotripa is an ideal spot for nature lovers.

Halara is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. The beach is ideal for those looking for tranquillity and isolation. The beach is accessible from a hiking route starting from the deserted settlement of Asfondylitis.

Kalotaritissa is a sandy bay with turquoise waters and verdant vegetation located in the southern side of the island. The beach is well organized with sunbeds and umbrellas and a small beach café. Excursion boats operate to the island of Gramvousa from the beach.

Levrosos is a sandy beach with blue waters located on the northern side of the island. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches of the island with panoramic views over the surrounding areas. Levrosos is accessible through a path starting from the area of Tholaria.

Liveros is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the southwest side of the island. The shipwreck of Olympia is located at the beach. The beach is accessible through the bus to Paradisia beach where you should stop there and head back towards the road and take the first turning on your right to Kalotairitissa. After a walk of thirty minutes, you will be thrilled from the wild beauty of the shipwreck.

Maltezi is a sandy beach with emerald waters located on central part of the island. The beach has a beach bar and it is accessible by a boat from Katapola or by a path starting from the area of Ksilokeratidi.

Mikri and Megali Vlychada are two golden sandy beaches with turquoise waters located on the northwest side of the island. The beaches are accessible through a pathway from the village of Tholaria.

Mouros is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the northeast side of the island. The beach is ideal for those seeking for seclusion. The underwater caves of Mouros are ideal for snorkelling.

Paradisia is a sandy beach with turquoise waters and imposing rocks located on the northwest side of the island. The beach is ideal for those seeking for tranquillity.

Plakes is a sandy bay with turquoise waters and rocky cliffs located on the central part of the island. The beach is ideal for those seeking for seclusion. Plakes is also an ideal spot for diving owing to the rich marine life of the area.

Psili Ammos is a remote sandy beach with emerald waters located on the northeast side of Hora. The beach is ideal for those seeking for seclusion and it is also an ideal spot for diving. The easiest way to access the beach is by boat from the harbour of Katapola.

Sparti is a scenic bay with emerald waters located in one of the remotest parts of the island.  The easiest way to access the beach is by boat from the harbour of Katapola.

Coffee Corners

Bayoko: Coffee, Hora

Frou Frou Coffee, Aegiali

Kalisto: Pastries, Hora

Loza: Coffee, Lagada

Meli Kanella: Pastries, Katapola

Triporto: Breakfast and Coffee, Hora

Gastronomic Delights

Amorgialos: Greek Cuisine, Aegiali

Capetan Dimos: Seafood, Katapola

Horeftis: Ouzo and Meze, Tholaria

Koralli: Seafood, Aegiali

Levrosos: Greek Cuisine, Levrosos

Limani tis Kyra Katinas: Greek Cuisine, Aegiali

Moschoudaki: Ouzo and Meze, Aegiali

Nikos: Greek Cuisine, Lagada

Panorama: Greek Cuisine, Tholaria

Petrino: Italian Cuisine, Hora

Santouraki: Greek Cuisine, Tholaria

To Steki tis Sofias Lydiaki: Ouzo & Meze, Asfondylitis

Cocktails Inspirations

Aperanto Galazio: Cocktails and Drinks, Katapola

Botillia: Cocktails and Drinks, Hora

Disco The Que: Cocktails and Drinks, Aigiali

Seladi: Cocktails and Drinks, Tholaria

Yasemi: Cocktails and Drinks, Hora

The local products of the island include cheeses of ladotiri, skliro and xino.

The local specialties of the island include patatato, a local dish made from lamb cooked with potatoes, fava, a dip of split pea, kakavia, a dish of fish soup, xidato, a dish made from goat meat soup with entrails, kalogirous, a dish made from eggplants with cheese and meat, pasteli, a honey and sesame bar, xerotigana, a sweet made from fried pastry with honey and the local alcoholic drinks of rakomelo which is hot raki with honey, and psimeni raki which is a sweet drink with honey, herbs and raki.

Every May, the International Short Tourism Film Festival takes place in the island of Amorgos.

Every 23^rd of June, the Klidonas Feast takes place in the island of Amorgos. The feast hosts the revival of the old tradition of Klidonas, where the identity of the future husband of unmarried women is revealed.

Every July, the Up Music Festival takes place in Amorgos.

Every 26^th of July, the traditional celebration in honour of Agia Paraskevi takes place in the island. This festival is considered to be one of the biggest religious celebrations of Amorgos.

Every 15^th of August, the traditional celebration in honour Panagia Epanohoriani takes place in the village of Lagada.

Every summer, the Pasteli and Psimeni Festival takes place in the island of Amorgos.

Every 9^th of September, the traditional celebration in honour of Virgin Mary takes place in the isle of Nikouria.

Every 14^th of September, the traditional celebration in honour of the saint takes place in the chapel of Stavros at the village of Lagada.

Every 21^st of November, the traditional celebration in honour of Panagia Hozoviotissa takes place at the Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa.

Mythology

According to mythology, the Minoans founded the city of Minoa on the island of Amorgos during the Minoan period. It is supposed that King Minoa ruled the island. However, another myth states that Minoa was a colony of Samos while Arkesini was a colony of Naxos and Aegialis was a colony of the Milecians. Those three cities formed the Tripolis of Amorgos.

History

In Ancient times, Amorgos was one of the most important centres of the Cycladic civilization as evidenced from their development on the areas of arts, trade and marine navigation in the ancient cities of Amorgos, Arkesini and Minoa. Besides various artistic artefacts, ancient towers and stone tools indicate the importance of the ancient civilization developed at the island.  Amorgos was one of the first places that the Ionians passed on their way to Cyclades owing to its close proximity to Asia Minor and the ancient town of Halicarnassus, Ephesus and Miletus. Amorgos was dominated from various conquerors while its strategic geographical position made the island vulnerable from pirate attacks. In 1207, the Venetian Gizi family took control of the island and it became a pirate shelter. However, the island was thereafter occupied from the Ottomans, the time when Amorgos became a self-governed democracy taxed from the Sultan. The island of Amorgos became a part of the Greek State in 1835 and one of the first schools of the free country was founded in the island.

By Boat (127 Nautical Miles): Amorgos is accessible by boat from the harbour of Piraeus. The journey usually lasts from six to nine hours. Amorgos is also connected with the islands of Donousa, Heraklia, Koufonisia, Naxos and Schinoussa amongst others.Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !