Publication for Naxos & Small Cyclades july 2013 | Issue 9
Map of Naxos Beaches Sights to see Activities Touring the villages of Naxos recycle me
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editorial
Issue 9
Naxos!
The island that will win you over at first glance as you enter the port. The image of the Castle and the Portara to the temple which was never completed welcomes you to the majesty and mysteries of the island.
PUBLISHER Popi Alimperti EDITORIAL TEAM - ASSOCIATES Katerina Sideri Athina Santorinaiou Tasos Anastasiou Manolis Manolas Vaggelis Fragiskos Akis Axaopoulos George Sfiroeras Katerina Mpalagoura Nana Kiriazi Christos Kabris Maria Georgiadou Vefa Laina Georgia Margariti Joanna Verikokou Stella Theoharatou TRANSLATION Akis Axaopoulos ADVERTISING - MARKETING Vefa Laina Andreas Asimianakis Efthimios Mikes
Panagia the Mirtidiotissa, the small island at the port completes the welcoming procession. Nothing you have encountered so far can compare with the memories you will take with you after visiting this Cycladic island.
Welcome to Naxos, the gem of Cyclades!
NAXOS! The biggest and most fertile of the Cyclades. With its rich geography and various landscapes. Meadows that lead to endless sandy beaches, green valleys, hills and mountains, grape vines and fruit bearing trees, medieval towers and castles, exceptional Byzantine monuments spread inside olive tree groves, simple, wise and good hearted people. NAXOS! Centrally located in the Aegean Sea, with exceptional, intellectual and folk traditions, rich Byzantine art, variety of architecture and monuments representing different eras. NAXOS! With its rich and interesting history, reveals itself to its guests step by step, as you get to know her, and every experience at the land of Ariadne, gives you the feeling of completeness...
Abram beach (Picture from the municipality of Naxos & Small Cyclades)
PHOTOGRAPHY Irene Drakopoulou PHOTOGRAPHY - COVER DESIGN Popi Alimperti DESIGN Stampa Graphics Chora Naxos, Tel.: +30 22850 22111 ART DIRECTOR Fia Grigoropoulou CONTACT T +30 22850 22945 M +30 693 99 49 200 E mynaxos@gmail.com
Read ÂŤmy naxosÂť on line www.naxosnow.gr & www.issuu.com/mynaxos
We appreciate your comments & ideas
Police Department, Chora (+30) 22850 23280 & 22850 22100 Police Department, Filoti (+30) 22850 31224 Port Authority (+30) 22850 22300 Port Authority Piraeus (+30) 210 42 26 000 - 4
Municipality of Naxos & Small Cyclades (+30) 22853 60100 Halki: 22850 32467 Post Office (+30) 22850 22211 Taxi Service (+30) 22850 22444 KTEL, Bus Service (+30) 22850 22291
Naxos Airport (+30) 22850 23292 Chora Archaeological Museum (+30) 22850 22725 Weather Information (+30) 22850 22465 DEI, Electric Company (+30) 22850 22214
Fire Department (+30) 22850 32199
Olympic Airways Naxos (+30) 22850 23830
Hospital (+30) 22853 60500
Olympic Airways Athens Yellow Pages (+30) 210 96 66 666, 210 93 63 63 11888
OTE, Phone Company (+30) 22850 22599
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Naxos...
the eternal gate A
s you enter the port of Naxos, the Portara, Panagia the Mirtidiotissa and the Castle grab your attention.
The Portara which stands at the islet of Vakhou is a remnant from the ancient Temple of Apollo that stood here. The remnants of the Temple are called «PALATIA» deriving from the Palace of Lygdamis an ancient tyrant of Naxos from the 6th century B.C. The myth states that Thiseas abandoned Ariadne here on his way to Athens from Crete. The white church of Panagia the Mirtidiotissa was build by a Tsirigotis (Kithira native) after he shipwrecked there. In ancient times the Temple of Poseidon stood here. At the highest part of Chora stands the Venetian Castle, build in 1207. It originally had 12 towers. Its main buildings are the Tower of Sanoudou, the Catholic Cathedral, the Iesouiton Monastery (French Commerce Academy), the Ursulin Academy and the Cappuchin Monastery. The Chora Castle with its Venetian mansions, has been lived on continuously since 1207. The Archaeological museum which houses famous Cycladic ancient finds and the Naxos Archives with its rare writings can also be found here. The Byzantine period left behind a treasure of beautiful monuments. Wonderful churches, that you will encounter everywhere on the island, adorn villages, mountains and the countryside..... The Monastery of Panagia the Drosiani has the oldest frescoes in the Balkans. The Monastery of Panagia the Protothroni at Halki has a 2000 year old history, and Saint George the Diasoritis as equally beautiful and historic. At first glance the Monastery of Agion Apostollon, at Kerami, reminds you of a drawing set amidst a background of olive trees. Agios Mamas at Potamia, another important Byzantine monument from the 9th century A.D., the local patron of the shepherds. Churches and chapels spread all over Naxos with multiple architectural features, some from the iconoclastic period and others with a two aisled feature, one being Catholic, and the other Orthodox,
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representing the time when the two Churches tried to unite. Of special interest are the monasteries with fortress characteristics and the towers which are ancient, Byzantine, medieval and Hellenistic as well. The Monastery of Photodoti at Danako, is the oldest on the island and looks like a tower from a fairy tale. The Monastery of Panagia the Ypsilotera at Eggares, the Tower of Heimarou buld around the 4th century A.D., one of the most important monuments of Naxos, cylindrical in shape, four stories tall, build with local marble and the Tower of Agia, etc. The ancient inhabitants of Naxos build many castles, and lived there during the Byzantine Period and Venetian occupation. Some of them are the Castle of Apalirou, the Apano Castle, the Castle Sanoudou and Kalogeros. At the lower part of Apano Castle at Tragea, lays a cemetary from the Geometrical Period, where cylindrical tombs (Homer’s Period) where excavated. Temples that were places of worship for the Gods Zeus, Dionysos and Demeter are found everywhere in Naxos. Zeus was raised in Naxos at the Cave of Za, and was the patron of the sheep. At Livadi, the Temple of Dionysos was found there (Yria), which is the oldest temple in Cyclades. At Gyroula near the village of Sagri, you will find one of the best preserved Archaic monuments in Greece, a temple dedicated to the Gods Apollo and Demeter. During the Hellenistic peak years, Naxos was the authority of the Cyclades. The Naxians of that era presented as a gift to the Temple of Apollo the Lions of Delos. During the same period the Kouros of Melanes was sculpted, made out of stone and resting for centuries amidst plane and bay trees. The village of Apollona, at the northern part of the island, is the location where another Kouros, found at an ancient marble quarry, depicts Dionysos and its length is greater than 10 meters. As one French traveler once said: «NAXOS IS ETERNAL AND ETERNITY NEVER DIES»
The Castle of Chora Naxos was build by the Venetian conqueror Marko Sanoudo, who in 1207 became Duke, declaring Naxos the capital of his Duchy. It is built on a hill using material from an ancient acropolis that existed on the site. The castle served as a residential area, and it was also the educational, religious and administrative center for the Venetian Conquerors.
The Kouros of Apollona is one of the most important monuments of Greece. The partially completed statue is found laying at a marble quarry and dates back to the 4th-5th centuries B.C. It depicts either God Apollo or God Dionysos. The statue measures 10.5 meters tall and it was probably abandoned in an unfinished state because it was cracked. It is also the tallest marble statue in existence.
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Events & Catering refined tastes your cant l l a For signifi t and ents e e w s mom
[22850 24236]
creators of sweet flavors catering reception planning weddings and baptisms Since 2002, Korres Events Catering and Wedding Naxos award winning chefs, have been providing catering services to corporate events, weddings, baptisms, parties and pic-nics. Make your dream a reality and have your wedding at the romantic island of Naxos. Korres Catering will plan and cater your ceremony and reception. Our menu, attention to detail and excellent service will satisfy even the most demanding customers. http://www.weddingnaxos.gr/
Chora Naxos, (Opposite National Bank) • Τel.: +30 22850 27530 July 2013
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Glinado, Galanado, Agersani, Tripodes
A stroll around the villages of Naxos
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Unique, traditional & inviting, the villages of Naxos will tempt you to visit them. Take a walk around their picturesque streets & alleys, learn about their history, culture & traditions, & don’t forget to taste their local products and cuisine.
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These are the villages closest to Chora, also known as Livadia for their fertile grounds and for producing the famous Naxos potatoes and graviera cheese. Windmills found at Tripodes remind you of engravings from by gone years, the Venetian tower Belonia at Galanado, and at Yria the heart of Livadia the ancient temple dedicated to Dionysos.
Halki, Filoti Two beautiful picturesque villages located in central Naxos. Halki dominated by the Venetian architecture and endless olive tree groves. Its guests can visit, Panagia the Protothroni, Agio Georgio the Diasoriti, Agious Apostolous, Daminiotissa and neo-classical buildings. At the foot of Mount Za, perched on two hills is the largest village of Naxos, Filoti, with its traditional characteristics....white painted terraces, greenery, restaurants, cafes and bars. Panagia the Filotitisa is located here, as well as the Tower of Barotsi and the Cave of Za with the sign that reads «Oros Dios Milosiou».
Filoti
Apiranthos, Koronos, Komiaki Apiranthos, a village distinguished by its customs and traditions. Mansions build out of marble, Byzantine churches and marble covered alleys dominate the scenery. Panagia the Aperathitissa and three important museums, the archaeological, folklore and geological are found here. Koronos, known for its emery mines, probably the finest in the world. The aerial railway used to carry the emery to Moutsouna, now stands dormant above the rough terrain. The Kako cave with the sign that reads « Drios Dionysou « is located here, revealing the admiration of the ancient inhabitants to the God Dionysos. Komiaki, the furthest to the north and largest in area covered, village of Naxos. Inhabited since the prehistoric times as its name indicates: Komi meaning center, as it was the center of smaller settlements, as well as the large number of tombs found here from the First Cycladic Period dating back to 3,500 B.C.
Komiaki
The one and only domed Mycenaean tomb in Naxos is located here. It’s believed to be that of the King of Naxos, who came here from Asia Minor. The area is called Axos, which relates to the name of the island. Visit it, take a stroll at its traditional alleys and taste the local authentic food.
Galini, Eggares The Eggares valley located north- east of Chora, is one of the most fertile areas of Naxos. The Monastery of Ypsilis build in the 1600’s is located here.
Potamia, Melanes, Kinidaros Villages located on the interior of the island. Endless olive tree groves and fruit bearing trees dominate the scenery. The area Flerio of Melanes houses the Archaic Kouros from the 7th century B.C., the Byzantine church Agios Mamas at Potamia, and Kinidaros is known for its singers and dancers.
Apiranthos
Accommodation | Food | Fun | Entertainment Hora Naxos
Agia Anna
Club: Ocean
Beach Bar-Restaurant: Santana
Catering: Korres Events Catering & Wedding
Restaurant: Gorgona
Super Market: Koutelieris Real Estate Agency: Veronis Sports club-cafe bar: Vaporias Local products: Pan-Co Hotel: Grotta Patisserie: Aktaion Grill house: Kozi Bar: Copacabana Restaurant: Eirini ‘s, Giagiakas Pizzeria: Girasole
Agios Prokopios
Plaka Tavern: 3 Brothers Hotel: Aegean Cafe-Bar Restaurant: Placafe, Yazoo
Pirgaki Cafe-Bar Restaurant: Notos
Abram Rooms: Abram, Athina Tavern: Efthimios
Restaurant: 1924 Hotel Lagos Mare Restaurant Pizzeria: Colosseo Tavern: Barbounis
Πύργοσ Μπαζαίου Bazeos Tower
ΚΕΔΡΟΔΑΣΟΣ
Naxos The association of rental properties wishes you a happy summer! For reservations - informations | Phone: 22850 24565 | E-mail: info@naxosrooms.eu | Web: www.holidaysnaxos.com July 2013
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Journey
The delightful & unique
N
axos is famous for its beaches. Pristine blue and turquoise waters, endless sandy sea shore and cedar tree groves defines them, and makes them some of the best in the world. Visit them, enjoy the Aegean sea and sun and indulge your self in your favorite beach activities.
Grotta
At the northern part of Chora, Grotta with its many discoveries from the Neolithic Period. The meltemia (north winds) can make it harsh looking, but it never looses its beauty and value.
Agios Georgios
Located at the southern part of Chora, with its many restaurants and cafe-bars. Popular with the tourists and a destination for water sports.
beaches of Naxos Abram
The Abram Bay is located at the northwest part of the island between Apollonas and Chora. Serene and quiet, is the ideal place to unwind and relax.
Pirgaki
Located 18 km from Chora, Pyrgaki is one of the most beautiful sandy beaches of the island. It is a great spot for windsurfing and other watersports and ideal for small children due to the shallow waters.
Apollonas beach
Alyko beach
Ag. Anna beach
Agios Prokopis
Probably one of the best beaches you will encounter with turquoise waters and golden sand. Many restaurants and cafe-bars catering to tourists and locals are found here.
Agia Anna
A continuation of Agios Prokopis, is the beach of Agia Anna with its many restaurants and cafe-bars. The chapel of Agia Anna, and the small port where all the fishing boats dock, complete the scenery.
Plaka
Pristine and endless beach that circles around the southern part of Naxos.
Orkos
Cedar trees, the small island Parthena and a beautiful golden beach.
Mikri Vigla
A beautiful beach with pristine waters named after the observation point that was there, (vigla meaning to observe). Using fire they warned the nearby castles and towers of approaching pirates.
Alyko
Cedar trees and coarse sand dunes dominate the scenery of this beautiful beach.
Apollonas
Sea and mountain meet at the village of Apollonas located at the northern part of the island, with its many tavernas offering good Apollonian wine and delicacies. The Kouros depicting Dionysos is located here.
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Plaka beach
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Mythology
The myths of Dionysos & Ariadne
N
axos is one of the places that claim the origins of the God of Wine Dionysos....as the mythology states that «Zeus gave the order for Dionysos to be raised at Mount Nysa.» The myth also associates Vakho with Thiseas and Ariadne! With the help of Ariadne, daughter of Minoa, Thiseas killed the Minotaur inside the Labyrinth. Thiseas embarked to return to Athens, and Ariadne being in love with him, followed him. They stopped at Naxos to rest and got off the ship, at «Palatia» where Ariadne fell asleep at the beach. When she woke up, she realized that Thiseas left without her. She either killed herself or was killed by one of Artemis’s arrows. Another myth says that Dionysos saw her, fell in love and asked Thiseas to leave her there. Thiseas obeyed the God, and Dionysos took the queen with him to Mount Olympus. Another rumor states that it was Onaros, God’s Priest and not Dionysos that fell in love with Ariadne, and that Thiseas had no objection to leave her behind...
Hora, 843 00 Naxos Island Τel.: +30 22850.22578
Santana Beach club - Restaurant... on the beach!
τ +30 22850 42841 | www.agiaannahotel.com
Plaka beach - Naxos, Greece Tel.: +30 22850 41571 - Mob.: +30 6977 391528 E-mail: info@3brothershotel,gr
Plaka, 843 00 Naxos Winter: M + 30 697 1744296, + 30 697 4647479 Summer: T +30 22850 42871-2 • F+30 22850 42875
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Fresh, new, tasty, fun & 100% latin
Mandilara Square • 843 00 Naxos T +30 6943 464 459 E copacabananaxos@yahoo.com
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Tribute
Naxos Activities, Fun & Action Welcome to Naxos, set your worries aside and enjoy a fun filled vacation. Welcome to Naxos Activities!
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Annabella, Naxos Sailing Set sail aboard the luxury yacht Annabella, to historical places and beautiful locales, with Captain George Fragiskos and learn about them & the myths that surround them while learning the art of sailing. Contact Info: George Fragiskos T +30 6944 355 717 • E fragiskos@hol.gr www.yacht-sailing.com/ • www.naxos-sailing.gr/
Antony Health Spa Welcome to a world of beauty, wellness and rejuvenation! Enjoy...Chocolate Therapy, Vintage Therapy, Cleopatra Bath, Hydro Massage, Thalassotherapy, Well System and Aromatherapy. Care with known products from skilled personnel. Contact Info: Saint George Beach (After Post Office) Chora, Naxos Greece T +30 22850 22195 • www.antonyspa.com/
Aqua Fun Water Park
T/F +30 22850 42629, M +30 6937 161 226 E bluefindivers@bluefindivers.gr • www.bluefindivers.gr/
Domus Festival Throughout the year the museum houses important cultural activities, such as classical and local traditional concerts, art exhibitions and folkloric events. Contact Info: Venetian Museum, Castro Chora Naxos T +30 22850 22387 • www.naxosfestival.com/
Flisvos Sportsclub Situated at Saint George Beach, Flisvos Sportsclub provides all facilities and equipment for the water sports enthusiasts, as well as those who like adventure and exploration. We offer windsurfing, watersports, yacht and catamaran sailing, beach sports and mountain biking. Contact Info: Saint George Beach, 84300 Naxos T +30 22850 24308 • www.flisvos-sportsclub.com/
Flisvos Water Sports
The ideal place for a family to spend quality time together. Our activity filled park will give you unforgettable moments of fun and absolute relaxation. Cover charge applies only to those guests wishing to take part in the activities. Contact Info: Stelida, Naxos 84 300 Greece T +30 22850 25050, F +30 22850 24385 E info@aquafun.gr • www.aquafun.gr/
Located at the St George-St Prokopios areas, Flisvos Water Sports experienced instructors will guide you through the sports of waterskiing, wakeboarding, jetskiing, canoeing, windsurfing, tubing as well as a variety of other activities. Contact Info: Saint George Beach and Saint Prokopios Beach, 84 300 Naxos Greece T +30 22850 22804 • M +30 6946 370 990 www.flisvoswatersports.gr/
Bluefin Divers
Heart Rock Co Karting
Grab the opportunity to become a scuba diver and dive into a great adventure. Diving programs are available for beginners, as well as seasoned certified divers. Join us in exploring the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Contact Info: Agios Prokopios, P.S. 84300 Naxos
Located just 3 km outside of Chora Naxos, you can partake in the exciting activity of kart racing. The Heart Rock Kartodrome, offers a safe, wonderful and educational entertainment opportunity for the whole family. Open daily from 10 A.M. until midnight. Contact Info: M +30 693 8010894, +30 693 2436874
Vallindras Citron Watch and follow the distillation process, of the citron tree leaves, in the same alembic that operates since 1896, at the Vallindras distillery, which has been producing the unique Naxos Citron for 115 years. Taste and buy our products here and at our Citron Cafe at the waterfront of Chora. Contact Info: Chalki, Naxos Greece • T +30 22850 31220
Naxos Horse Riding Club Make your dreams come true! Enjoy the distinctive nature of Naxos on horseback, whether on the beautiful beaches or in the mountains. Beginner and advances riders welcome. Two or three day rides,as well as dual activity holidays can be arranged in low season. Contact Info: Kokkina Spitia Cyclades, Greece 84 300 T +30 694 8809142 • E lindabarratt70@hotmail.com
Naxos Tours...Trekking Naxos! Offering the River walk (Full Day) and Naxos at your Feet (Half Day), our guests have the opportunity to explore the island and discover sights otherwise not seeing. Spend your day in peaceful and tranquil surroundings untouched and undisturbed by the modern way of life. Contact Info: T +30 22850 24000 • F +30 22850 23951 E info@naxostours.net • www.naxostours.net/
Venetian Museum Located at the Castro in Chora the museum housed inside a tower, offers a glimpse of a household from by gone years. You can tour the museum alone or with a guide, followed with the tasting of local drinks & refreshments. Contact Info: Kastro, Chora Naxos T +30 22850 22387 • E venetianmuseum@yahoo.gr • www.naxosfestival.com/
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