history of the island
by mindcrime
The history of the island goes back to Ancient Greece times. Herodotus had written about the products of the island (fruits, olives, wine). What’s more, Naxos had high quality marble. In Cycladic Era (2500 BC) the town must been in the area above the castle where many tombs, statues and other things have been found. During the second millennium BC (Minoan Era) Creta takes all the power that lasts for many centuries. During the Classic Era in the island many temples and statues are dedicates to the Gods. Because of the marble quality sculptors and architectures had the opportunity to build temples for Dimitra, for Apollo, the statues of Kouros etc
At 490 BC during the Persian war Naxos lost, the inhabitants went away and many cities tried to take advantage of this after (Athens, Sparta, Egypt, Macedonia etc). The roman empire used the island as place of exile. During Byzantium era many churches build over the temples and in 1207 the Venetian Marko Sanudo founded the Douchy of Aegean sea, built the castle in Hora and his offices built their towers across the island. The ottoman empire were taking taxes but there’s nothing left on the island to be seen by that period (1564-1821)
Agios Prokopios beach
by Aggeliki
Agios Prokopios is a very big beach which is situated at the southwest coast of Naxos and is considered as one of the most beautiful of the island. The water is crystal clear and the sand is gold and due to its position protected from the north winds.
Celebration of the first of May
by songlines
The first of May is celebrated on Naxos Island by hanging beautifully created fresh flower wreaths on the door or front of the houses. I saw some made from just lavender and that was lovely blue/purple. But many were multi colored.
Families would go out all together and have a meal of goat stew and other Greek delicacies. Some of the photos show you gatherings like this in a tavern.
The people of Naxos were also telling us about putting their donkeys on top of the roofs during the evening but I wonder if they were joking as I did not see one instance of this.
Traditional music and dancing also abound on this day and everyone just celebrates.
Find your own beach at Naxos
by Roardo
Just drive along the road from Naxos to Appolon. Half an hour drive with a scooter (I don't remember the name....) on the top of a hill you can see a small lagoon-like beach. Go there! No tourists, no facilities, but your own beach! Just drive down the dirtroad to the end, and your there.
Scooter is rented downtown for 6-7 EUR a day pluss petrol.
Apirathos Taverna
by ncoutroulis about Taverna Lefteres
This tradional taverna off the main "street" features fantastic home cooked greek specialties and desserts. It also has a great view overlooking the hills and olive groves of Apirathos. everything was great.
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The port
Long sandy beach
Another view
Eggplant's dish and more
