Samos Island and Cyprus distance. Sights of Samos Island - what to see. A complete guide to iconic places. Early Antiquity
It is not without reason that Samos is considered one of the most attractive East Aegean islands; this Greek island is located closest to Turkey than any other. According to historical data, the first settlements on its territory appeared more than 5,000 years ago; many beautiful myths and legends are associated with the island. According to one of them, Samos is the birthplace of the goddess Hera; for many years, local residents sacredly revered her cult, and the main decoration of the island was a temple dedicated to the goddess.
Samos was the birthplace of the great philosopher Pythagoras, whose name is also associated with many local attractions. The city of Pythagorio was named in his honor - ancient capital the islands are a real storehouse of priceless historical monuments. Today Pythagorio is a miniature village, among the distinctive features of which is the unique national flavor and atmosphere of past centuries. Here is one of the most visited local attractions - the cave in which, according to legend, Pythagoras lived. There are ruins in the village ancient buildings, several interesting archaeological areas to visit are located in the immediate vicinity of Pythagorio. The ruins are definitely worth seeing Venetian fortress, the construction of which took place during the Middle Ages.
The most significant attraction is located in the city of Ireon, we're talking about O beautiful temple Hera, which Herodotus considered one of the outstanding wonders of the world. To this day, the majestic building has only partially survived; during the excursion, travelers can appreciate the scale of the temple, as well as admire the surviving elements of the sculptures. The current capital of the island is the city of Vathy. It will definitely appeal not only to lovers of excursions, but also to those who cannot imagine a proper vacation without shopping. Copyright www.site
The most famous attraction of the capital is the Archaeological Museum, which displays priceless artifacts that were discovered by scientists during the exploration of the island. No less interesting object is local market- the largest in Samos. A walk through the colorful shopping arcades will be a great way to get acquainted with the local culture and culinary traditions. Local artisans present their products at the market; the variety of goods and works of art is simply amazing. Art connoisseurs will be attracted by the capital's art exhibition, which presents works by local painters.
Among the notable features of the Greek island are the abundance of Orthodox monasteries, the most famous of which are Zoodochas Pigi, Timiou Stavrou and Megali Spilianis. For many hundreds of years, pilgrims from all over the world have visited them to venerate unique Orthodox relics. A walk through the picturesque village of Kumaradei, which is located in the southern part of the island, promises to be interesting. It is often called the “village of craftsmen”, the fact is that it is concentrated great amount interesting craft workshops. Many travelers specifically go to the village to buy original souvenirs. Samos is famous for its high-quality pottery workshops. Nature lovers will prefer the village of Karlovasi, whose main symbols remain beautiful waterfalls and lakes. A huge number of exciting attractions pass through the island. excursion routes, fans hiking You definitely won't be bored.
For fans beach activities Beautiful pebble beaches are available on the island; they are located in very picturesque and quiet bays. In the immediate vicinity of the town of Poseidonio there is Clima Beach, which is considered one of the most popular on the island. On its territory there is a rental point for beach equipment, and taverns and shops are located nearby. Not far from the village of Lemonaki there is one of the largest beaches on the island, its length is more than 1,000 meters. The beach is well equipped; even at the height of the tourist season, you can choose a place for a comfortable stay.
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Samos Island belongs to the Eastern Sporades archipelago and is considered one of largest islands Aegean Sea. This resort is clearly visible on tourist map, and has a reputation great place For beach holiday. It best combines a classic beach stay program with an abundance of exciting excursions, swimming in the purest sea depths and activities aquatic species sports
Peculiarities
The rich history of the island is embodied here in the presence of an impressive number of ancient buildings and unique monuments that represent the cultural heritage of the country and are of great interest to numerous tourists. At one time, Samos was considered the center of Ionian culture and was the birthplace of such famous philosophers of the ancient world as Pythagoras, Melissa of Samos and Epicurus. For centuries, the lands of the island have been distinguished by their rare fertile qualities, thanks to which agriculture has always successfully developed here, and locally produced natural Muscat wines have long been known far beyond the borders of Greece. Samos is also famous for its magnificent natural landscapes, which delight even experienced travelers. The island has a well-developed infrastructure, there are comfortable hotels for every taste, cozy restaurants and entertainment venues.
general information
The area of Samos is very significant and amounts to more than 477 square meters. km, with a population of about 35 thousand people. Local time lags behind Moscow by 1 hour in winter and coincides in summer. Time zone UTC+2 and UTC+3 in summer time of the year. Official website www.samos.gr.
A brief excursion into history
The first settlements appeared on the island in the 3rd millennium BC and, according to legend, the goddess Hera was born here, whose cult arose in these places back in the era of the Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations. Samos reached significant prosperity during the reign of Polycrates, in the 500s BC, when the tyrant, who did not want to share power with his two brothers, decided to get rid of both and rule the island alone. During his reign, many exquisite structures were built here, and the fame of the wealth and prosperity of this landmass then spread throughout the entire continent. In different centuries, Samos was under the rule of the Romans, Genoese, Byzantines, and Greeks. Each of these nationalities left its mark on its cultural heritage, as evidenced today by numerous fragments of ancient buildings. In 1913, the island joined Greece, eventually becoming a popular tourist destination.
Climate
The mild Mediterranean climate prevailing at the resort contributes to a pleasant pastime almost throughout the year. Winter here is warm, albeit rainy, with average temperature air about +15 degrees. In summer, the thermometer regularly goes beyond +30, but the heat is easily tolerated due to the refreshing sea breeze constantly blowing from the sea. The swimming season begins here in May and ends only in October.
How to get there
Samos has its own airport and receives flights from many European cities, but this does not apply to Russian territory, so the best option seems to be flying from Athens on local airlines. Expensive, but fast. The cities of Samos and Karlovasi have passenger ports providing ferry service with several Greek islands of the Aegean Sea at once.
Transport
The most convenient way to travel within the resort is by taxi or rented car.
Main cities
The capital of the island is city of the same name Samos, also known as Vati. In addition to it, the important sea passenger port of Karlovasi, the ancient capital of Pythagorio, next to which is located local airport, the historical village of Ireon and a large locality Marathokampos, located on the mountain slopes of Kerkis. In addition to the listed places, there are a number of tiny settlements on the island, with a population of several hundred people.
Beaches
The coastline of Samos has a pebbly surface, and most of the beaches are located in cozy bays, where the water remains warm for many months. A lot of comfortable plots are located in the area of the tourist village of Kokkari, and best beach The island is considered Clima, located in close proximity to the town of Poseidonio. Also noteworthy are the beaches in the areas of Lemonaki, Tsamadu and Paleokastro, near Kerveli Bay. In addition to equipped areas, Samos also has wild beaches, ideal for romantic couples and people who prefer to sunbathe alone. The resort area of Murtia is very popular among holidaymakers.
Attractions and entertainment
The main historical centers of the island are the cities of Samos and Pythagorio. According to Herodotus, even during the reign of Polycrates, the Samian aqueduct was built within the island capital, which is a long tunnel created to supply the city with water, and has survived to this day. On the Pythagorio embankment, a monument to the legendary Pythagoras attracts attention, and a little higher, in the mountains, there is a cave of the same name, which keeps many secrets and mysteries in its depths. Not far from it lie the ruins of what once majestic palace Antony and Cleopatra.
Mass interesting facts Curious tourists can discover about the history of these places in the halls of the Pythagorio Archaeological Museum. In addition, museums are present in Samos, Karlovasi and Mytilene. Connoisseurs of ancient religious architecture should take a pilgrimage tour to the main monasteries of the island, including the Spilianis Monastery, lost among mountain peaks near Pythagorio, the monasteries of Megali and Timiou Stavrou, the monastery of the Life-giving Spring of Zoodohas Pigi near the capital Samos, and the monastery of Agia Zoni.
Kitchen
The island's culinary world is extremely diverse. In local restaurants, cafes and snack bars, visitors can taste a wide variety of dishes to suit every taste, from dairy products and pickled cheeses of the highest quality, to stuffed tomatoes and traditional Greek salad. Of course, you cannot ignore the magnificent Muscat wines and delicious fruits grown under the bright Greek sun.
Shopping
In shops and retail stalls, guests have the opportunity to purchase a wide variety of goods from almost all directions. The prices here cannot be called low, but the quality of the products also meets the highest expectations.
Samos is one of the most famous and visited island resorts, fully meeting the expectations of most vacationers. All conditions for a comfortable pastime have been created here, and the mild climate and stunningly beautiful landscapes only add positive emotions.
Samos located in the eastern part of the Aegean Sea. The island is one of the largest greek islands and is divided into southern and northern parts by a mountain range that stretches from east to west. The most big peaks islands Ambelos(1440 meters) and Kerkida(1445 meters).
History of the island
The ancient Greeks identified Samos with the place where the earth goddess Hera was born. In antiquity there was a big temple, dedicated to this goddess.
It is obvious that the island was already inhabited in the Minoan and Mycenaean eras. Samos reached its peak of power in the sixth century BC, thanks to the tyrant Polycrates. Polycrates was one of the most famous rulers Ancient Greece, ranked by Greek tradition as one of the “seven wise men.”
Polycrates contributed to the development of culture on the island and held great public Works. Under him, it was built on Samos first water supply in Europe.
Samos is also famous in the history of science. The island is home to Pythagoras, a scientist who became the founder of the “Pythagorean movement” - a philosophical movement whose representatives studied natural sciences.
At the end of the 5th century BC. Samos took part in the revolt of the Ionian cities against Persia. The Persians managed to suppress the uprising and subsequently forced Samos to take part in the campaign against Sparta and on their side. However, already at the Battle of Mykal, the Samos fleet fought against the Persians on the side of the allied Greek army. After the wars with the Persians, the island became part of the Attic Maritime League, but in 440 BC. attempted to secede from Athens. It took Pericles, the strategist of Athens, to besiege the island for 9 months to force Samos to return to the maritime alliance with Athens.
During Peloponnesian War Samos fought on the side of Athens. In 404 BC. The island was captured by the Spartan commander Lysander, who replaced democracy with an oligarchic regime. In 394 BC. Samos was recaptured from the Spartans by the Persian commander Conon. the island did not become part of the Second Attic Maritime Union. For this, the Athenians, having taken the island, evicted all the inhabitants. The Samians returned from exile after the death of Alexander the Great, thanks to the Macedonian governor of Greece, Perdika.
The island was part of various powers. At first the island was owned by the Egyptian Ptolemies, then it came under the rule of Pergamum, and in 129 BC. got it along with Pergamum.
Samos in the Middle Ages
After the collapse of the Roman Empire, Samos suffered greatly from constant pirate raids and robberies. Byzantium cared little about protecting the island and this led to the fact that Samos was practically depopulated. In the 17th century, the island was repopulated by Greeks and Turks from the shores of Asia Minor. In 1772-1774, the Russian military squadron of Count Orlov-Chesmensky was on the island. During the Greek war for independence, it was the main supplier of ships and sailors for the young Greek navy. The Samian merchants converted their merchant ships into warships and successfully fought at sea. However, after peace was concluded, Greece exchanged the island for Euboea. In the exchange, Samos received privileges. The island returned to the Ottoman Empire with a large degree of autonomy.
In 1912, the island came under the control of the Italo-Ottoman War. And after the First World War it was finally reunited with Greece.
Holidays on the island of Samos
Holidays in Samos somewhat similar to a holiday in . After all, in Sochi, like on the island of Samos, there is a clear sea, forests and mountains, architectural and natural attractions. In addition, both Samos and Sochi have a well-developed tourist infrastructure with excellent hotels that can accommodate a large number of tourists
Capital of the island
The modern capital of the island is Samos city. It is located directly opposite the Turkish coast. The city was originally called Stephanoupolis in honor of the first Greek ruler of the island, Stefanos Bogaridos. The architecture of the city is formed by neoclassical mansions of the 19th and 20th centuries. The city also has Archaeological Museum , one of the best in the Greek islands.
Attractions of Samos
On south coast the island is located town of Pythagorio named after the great Pythagoras. The city stands on the site of the ancient capital of Samos.
Right next to the town is Eupalina tunnel, built in 524 BC. under the tyrant Polycrates. Through this tunnel the city was supplied with water and also served when necessary by underground passage. In Pythagoria you can also see the ruins of the ancient walls and towers of the island.
IN Colona village, at a distance of 8 kilometers from Pythagoria there are fragments Temple of Hera. Herodotus, mentioning this temple, wrote that it was the greatest of all the temples that he had ever seen.
Samos on the map
Still remains an exotic route for tourists. The homeland of Pythagoras and Epicurus deserves the attention of those who dream of relaxing at sea, and all connoisseurs ancient culture. The rich architectural heritage and many beaches will pleasantly surprise foreign travelers who prefer privacy.
A little history
The ninth most populous island of Samos is separated from Turkey by the Eptastadio, a canal about 1,600 meters wide. The lands of this paradise, part of the Eastern Sporades archipelago, are considered the most fertile in Greece, and the wonderful wine with a soft taste “Vafi” has long been known outside the country.
Before the Ice Age, Samos was part of and thanks to its favorable geographical location it was quickly populated by the Greeks. In ancient times it was one of the richest colonies of Hellas, and later the island became an economically developed metropolis of Ancient Greece.
In the Byzantine period, it received the status of autonomy, and in the 15th century its inhabitants left this fertile place due to constant raids by pirates. And only ten years later Samos was populated by Orthodox migrants who were looking for a secluded corner across the ocean. In 1830 it was annexed to Ottoman Empire, and during this period the center of Ionian culture literally flourished.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Samos became part of Greece. During World War II, it is occupied by Italian and German troops, and bombing destroys many of the island's attractions. And only with the development of tourism does a unique example of the history and nature of Greece regain its lost position.
The climate of the legendary island
The mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by sunny summers and short and warm winters, will appeal to adults and children. Having a beneficial effect on the respiratory system, it promotes a pleasant pastime throughout the year. Summer heat (up to 35 degrees) is easily tolerated thanks to the refreshing sea breeze. The swimming season begins in May and ends at the end of October.
A place for a relaxing and active holiday
Samos, whose capital is the city of the same name, is a wonderful holiday destination. Equipped beaches, warm seas, picturesque landscapes, and developed hotel infrastructure have recently attracted an increasing number of tourists. Many attractions will allow guests to make the most of their vacation.
Temple of Hera
In the south of the resort there is its historical Center, named after Pythagoras. Here are the ruins of one of the most important monuments ancient civilization- a temple dedicated to Hera.
Even the historian Herodotus, in his works, highlighted several wonders of the world, among which was the majestic sanctuary of the wife of Zeus, located on the territory of a blooming paradise. According to legends, Hera from the island of Samos became the wife of the formidable son Kronos, who was in charge of the whole world. Followers of the cult of the goddess who patronized marriage set out to build a building in her honor, and in 720 BC a temple surrounded by big amount columns
It was an entire religious complex about 109 meters long. The tall temple served as a model for other structures, but after a strong earthquake it was destroyed. Currently visitors archaeological site can observe one column that has been preserved since time immemorial.
Underground aqueduct tunnel
In Pythagorio there is a second important attraction - the aqueduct, which is an underground tunnel. Carved out of the rock, it provided the inhabitants of the island with clean water. Herodotus also included this unique structure, a masterpiece of engineering at that time, in the list of the main wonders of the world.
Monument to the philosopher and a cave named after him
Several more interesting places are associated with the name of the great Pythagoras, which are sure to be visited by tourists who come to the colorful island of Samos. The attractions excite resort guests. On the seashore there is a monument dedicated to the ancient Greek philosopher, and at the foot of Mount Kersis there is a cave named after him. It is believed that the mathematician spent about 10 years there, hiding from the persecution of the tyrant ruler.
List of the most popular beaches in Samos
Colorful photos of the island of Samos evoke an irresistible desire to visit it and soak in the warm turquoise waters. Picturesque resort famous for its large number of pebble beaches, ideal for family vacation. Clima is considered the best, surrounded by inexpensive bars and taverns serving national cuisine. Tourists with children relax on the shallow beach located near the town of Poseidonio, and even the loud noise and bustle will not interfere with enjoying the wonderful beauty of the island.
Not far from the town of Vathy is Agia Markella - perfect place with the purest water. Wild beach, named after the island's patron saint, is extremely popular.
Psili Amos, located in the vicinity of Samos, will appeal to lovers of picnics and active entertainment. This sand beach, and the gentle entrance to the water makes it incredibly comfortable for guests.
Kerveli is chosen by connoisseurs of secluded relaxation. This is an uncrowded beach where you can spend the whole day relaxing and enjoying nature.
Malagari is not only chosen by amateurs water activities, but also true connoisseurs of good wines, since not far from the beach there is a winery where you can taste sparkling drinks.
The resort that produces the world's best nutmeg
When it comes to wine, it is impossible not to mention that the island of Samos is the birthplace of the sweet Muscat. The Vatican once had its own wine production plant here, and now the Catholic Church has given permission to make a drink for Holy Communion.
Samos nutmeg, which has received various international awards, has been a major export product since ancient times. In the first ten days of August fairy corner filled with tourists from different countries who arrived to taste the invigorating drink. One purchased glass of wine with an exquisite fruit bouquet can be filled as many times as the guests of the blessed island wish.
No one leaves here without a bottle of sparkling drink and freshly pressed olive oil.
What else should you bring from the island?
The main souvenir of Samos is the “mug of justice”, invented by Pythagoras. At that time, water was worth its weight in gold, and the philosopher was given instructions to come up with a special vessel that would allow working slaves to fairly distribute life-giving moisture among themselves.
This is how an amazing mug appeared: you can only pour water up to a certain level, otherwise the liquid will spill out.
The island of Samos is famous for its leather and ceramics craftsmen, so tourists buy beautiful belts, wallets, and handmade dishes. And those who have visited the village of Pyrgos, whose inhabitants have been known throughout the world for their beekeeping traditions for several centuries, acquire fragrant honey.
Kitchen and dishes
As tourists admit, local dishes are one of the main reasons to visit the resort. Hippocrates wrote about the quality of food in Samos, and all travelers believe national cuisine the most delicious.
The island's inhabitants produce fresh yoghurts, salted cheeses, and local restaurants They offer various dishes from eggplants, tomatoes, and seafood. You can’t ignore the aromatic fruits grown under the Greek sun.
Samos Island (Greece): reviews
Tourists speak with delight about their holidays spent on the island. Luxury resort loved by couples with children and travelers craving solitude. Guests of Samos admit that here there is a feeling of harmony and unity with nature.
Everyone celebrates great service and hospitality local residents who happily talk about national traditions. Archaeological sites arouse genuine interest among tourists, and beaches with clear water pleasantly surprise even discerning vacationers.
The exotic island of Samos (Greece) is one of the most attractive corners of the world where you can hide from all your problems and worries.
Where legends live and beauty reigns. This is the island of the father of mathematics, Pythagoras, astronomer Aristarcha and philosopher Epicurus. This is home Hera and the land of Herodotus and Aesop. Important center trade and naval forces in the Aegean Sea in antiquity, it maintained connections with all states and cultures of the Mediterranean.
It is no coincidence that the ancient historian Herodotus considered Samos to be the first among all Greek and barbarian cities. The center of the Ionian civilization, the island witnessed indescribable grandeur, traces of which are still preserved. Even today, its proximity to the coast of Asia Minor makes the island a “bridge” between two cultures, and the dissimilarity of cultures does not at all interfere with the coexistence, cooperation and friendship of peoples living on opposite shores.
According to myths, this where Hera was born, and on Samos, in , a settlement on the seashore, the largest temple in Greece (according to Herodotus), dedicated to the goddess of women and marriage, was built. Of the 155 giant columns, only one remains standing, testifying to the scale of this cult site: there are ruins of at least three earlier temples.
At every step you discover something new
Samos - island amazing plants. The virgin landscape around seems to be woven from color and light. Every step is a revelation. Majestic mountains, such as Mount Kerkisigora Ambelos, where it rains endlessly, and in winter the temperature is like in the Alps, or caves and canyons - everything around is reminiscent mainland Greece in miniature.
Pass along Mount Kerkis, from Voltsalakia in Marathokampos to its peak, Mount Vigla, located at an altitude of 1400 m. As you climb, look at what flowers and herbs surround you. 1,400 species of rare plants grow here, many of which are endemic to the island. Dozens of species of birds of prey also live here.
Take a walk along the cobblestone streets of these towns, look at Sarakini Tower, a magnificent structure of the 16th century, a real fortress of its time.
Visit monasteries Zoodochos Pigi Aliotissa, Agia Zoni, with its delightful library, and Timios Stavros with an impressive throne.
Rise up up the church stairs Panagia Sarandaskaliotissa, built at the entrance to the cave of Pythagoras, where the ancient Greek mathematician found refuge, escaping from the tyrant Polycrates.
The terrain of Samos offers a challenge for those wishing to explore the island on mountain bikes. Every summer more and more cyclists They come to the island with full equipment for adventure. Local cyclists meet at the Chapel of Agios Ioannis in Potami, which has no analogues in architecture. There, above the pebble beach of Potamos, they begin their journey to Karlovassi, Konstantinos and Kokkari. Bird lovers gather at places near Aliki or at Lake Glyfada to photograph herons, Dalmatian pelicans and pink flamingos, resting here before continuing their migration. When flamingos take off at sunset and their color merges with the red setting sun, the spectacle is so enchanting that it is impossible to forget it!
When the heat covers the island like a blanket, knowledgeable travelers set off on their way to Karlovassi waterfalls. The largest of the waterfalls is 5 meters high, and those who climb the 60 wooden steps to the top platform will be able to see a beautiful panorama.
Witness to centuries-old culture
Samos is a fertile, hospitable island that knows how to follow the rhythm of nature, but also how to give people true entertainment. In August on Music festival named after Manolis Kalomiris or at the Heraia-Pythagoreia festival, you can attend numerous theatrical performances in the ancient Pythagoreon theater. Also in summer, Heraion usually hosts rock music festival, and, of course, the Feast of the Transfiguration of Christ, held in Pythagoreon in August, when residents and visitors of the city will be able to admire a stunning fireworks show over the harbor.
How to get to Samos
By plane or boat from Piraeus and other ports