Despotiko

 

The Isle of Kouros

Marble Reflections on Turquoise Waters
A tiny isle is sailing in the sea with the sole inhabitants of one thousand goats. However, two centuries ago this tiny isle gathered worshipers from all around the Aegean and the Mediterranean as reflected from the findings that were brought to light from the archaeological investigations. The isle of Despotiko is one of the surrounding islands of Antiparos with great archaeological interest, which used to be connected with the small islet of Tsimindiri. Despotiko is an impressive archaeological site with twelve buildings and imposing artifacts including figurines and vases, ivory buckles and porcelain statuettes, seal stones from semi precious gem stones, iron and lead objects, swords and agricultural tools that worshipers brought to devote to Apollo and Artemis. Archaeological excavations have identified a Doric temple of the archaic period on the northeastern coast of the island along with an elongated complex consisting of five consecutive parallel rooms in the excavation site of Mandra. The remains of the archaeological site are of excellent condition, especially the remains of the facades of the buildings. On the southeast side of Despotiko, a plethora of buildings have been found which have been architectural elements of a Doric temple, confirming the use of the temples in the medieval period. The discovery of the inscribed potsherds with the inscription Apollo reinforces the fact that the temple was dedicated to Apollo. Indeed, the   worship of Apollo was one of the most widespread worships in the Cyclades, with Delos being the center of worship.  However, Despotiko has been identified as the island of Kouros, the beautiful marble statues carved from the Parian marble, which ornamented the Sanctuary. A series of fragmented members were found on the site, a precious gift and a proof of brilliance of this sacred place. Indeed, Despotiko is a haven for archaeology enthusiasts and sailing aficionados!

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Map of Despotiko

About Despotiko

General Information about Despotiko

The island of Despotiko is one of the surrounding islands of Antiparos with great archaeological interest, which used to be connected with the small islet of Tsimindiri, as evidenced from the altar of the Goddess of Hestia Isthmia. Despotiko is an impressive archaeological site with twelve buildings and imposing artifacts including figurines and vases, ivory buckles and porcelain statuettes, seal stones from semi precious gem stones, iron and lead objects, swords and agricultural tools that worshipers brought to devote to Apollo and Artemis. Discover Despotiko through a photographic journey of Google!

Historical Information about Despotiko

Despotiko has been identified as the place of Ancient Prepesinthos from the Greek historian Strabo and the Roman philosopher Pliny. Despotiko formed its own distinctive physiognomy participating in the cultural development of the Cyclades during the Early Bronze Age by its commercial development, its fortified settlements, and the establishment of metalwork centers. Inhabitation of the island is evident from the remains of Early Cycladic settlements, traces of a sacred complex around a temple dedicated to Apollo, a number of carved graves and marble vessels and figurines that were discovered in the areas of Livadia, Panagia and Zoumbaria. The findings of Despotiko suggest a great influence from the neighboring island of Paros. Following the history of the neighboring island of Antiparos, Despotiko was conquered from the Venetians followed from the Ottomans during the 16th century. In the 17th century, the inhabitants of the island were killed from pirates and Despotiko served as a pirate shelter owing to its strategic geographical position at the center of the Cyclades, an important station of the Aegean Sea. Since then, the island remains uninhabited.

Travel Information about Despotiko

By Boat (3 Nautical Miles): Despotiko is accessible by boat from the harbors of Hora and Agios Georgios in Antiparos.

Astonishing Views from Despotiko Isle

Despotiko offers spectacular views towards the islands of Antiparos, Folegandros, Kimolos, Syros, Serifos, Sikinos and Sifnos.

Camping on Despotiko

Although free camping is prohibited from the State of Greece, Despotiko is one of the best destinations for free camping!

Cruising around Despotiko

Despotiko Isle is one of the finest uninhabited islands of the Aegean. One will have the opportunity to discover and admire the turquoise waters of its pristine bays and coves. The two bays on the southern side of Despotiko are amongst the best ones for lovers of inflatables and yachts. Also, you will find another beautiful place to anchor on the isle of Tsimindiri between the islands of Antiparos and Despotiko.

Leave Only Footprints

Please show your utmost respect this beautiful archaeological site and never take anything with you other than pictures!

Strongilo Isle: The Finest Bay

On the southern side of Strongilo, the islet just off Despotiko, you will find a magnificent sandy bay with turquoise waters. The bay is safely protected from the winds.