KYTHNOS

1. Welcome to Kythnos island

Kythnos is the island of simplicity and hospitality!

Kythnos is a small Cycladic island, between Kea and Serifos (in the West Cyclades), just 52 nautical miles from the main port of Greece, Piraeus and only 2 hours from the port of Lavrio. It belongs to the South Aegean Administration.

It has been called “Thermia” since the 12th century when it was first referred to as “Diocese of Kea and Kythnos”. The name “Thermia” is due to the hot springs of water existing to this day at the bay Loutra. It is said that King Othon and Queen Amalia (1837-1862) enjoyed their thermal baths at Loutra.

The size of Kythnos is 99.3 square kilometers, with 104 km of coastline, 92 bays, coves and beaches, most of which are accessible by car.

There are two inland villages, Chora or Messaria numbering 806 inhabitants, and Dryopida numbering 797 inhabitants (census of 2001). Additionally, there are three main coastal settlements: the main port Merichas, numbering approximately 250 inhabitants, Loutra with the hot water springs and Panayia Kanala with the church of the same name. There are daily connections between Kythnos and the ports of Piraeus and Lavrio.

The municipality of Kythnos includes the island of Kythnos as well as the surrounding islets. The municipality of Kythnos consists of the settlements of Chora, Dryopida, Ayios Dimitrios, Ayia Eirini, Ayios Stefanos, Apokrousi, Loutra, Aousa, Gaidouramadra, Episkopi, Kalo Livadi, Kanala, Lefkes, Liotrivi, Merichas, Skylou, Flambouria and the islet of Piperi.

2. Activities on Kythnos

Hiking is one of the best activities while on Kythnos.

Aquateam organizes daily tours, land tours including jeep rides, hiking and mountain biking, as well as relaxing walks to the island’s best places to see and boat excursions to the more secluded beaches for picnics and swimming.
You can ride your bike and wander around the mountain roads and tracks of the island. You’ll be happily surprised.

If you are into hiking, don’t forget your hiking shoes. Start out at sunrise and discover places that not many people have seen, probably even none.

Places worth seeing in the surrounding area is Kastro (Castle), the archaeological site of Maroulas, Ai Lias, the beach at Schoinari and Ayia Eirini. On other parts of KYTHNOS island

you can visit Panagia Kanala, the Katafyki cave, as well as the picturesque port of Merichas for some ouzo, or the beach of Apokrousis and the famous Kolona!

The Greek ISLAND also has many more hidden secrets.
Our team knows the area very well and can organize activities to satisfy any taste.

KYTHNOS is easy to get to, and a primary destination for weekend visitors from Athens and around.

When you get here, if you don’t have your own transportation, we can arrange to pick you up from the port. If you do have your own transportation, the island has a good road system and there is of course no parking problem.

If you are planning longer vacation, the island has everything it takes to keep you interested. On the island of Kythnos, life goes on calmly. Its relaxing, traditional pace will truly let you rest and enjoy calm, beautiful vacation. We at Aquateam promise to do our best to offer you a great vacation.

We can capture all your activities on camera or video, and when you head for home, you can take your personal album on digital files in CD or DVD with you.

Details here!

3. Best beaches on Kythnos

Beautiful Kythnos has wonderful beaches forming picturesque bays with crystal clear water and ample shade from tamarind trees for those who cannot stand constant exposure to the sun.

One of the most remarkable beaches of Kythnos is Loutra. If you dive into the water on one of its sides, you will enjoy the beneficial qualities of the hot water coming out of the mineral springs, which ends up in the bay with the crystal clear water

Near Loutra you will find the beach of Ayia Eirini with its quaint settlement , and Schinari, too. Between Potamia and the region Maroulas there is Kavourocheri beach, while Kouri is in between Naousa and Zogkaki joined with store-paved steps.

Follwing the route to Kalo Livadi you can swim at the picturesque beach Liotrivi , where as Martinakia is the first beach one meets leaving Merichas and heading to Loutra.

On the south side of Kythnos near the settlement of Ayios Dimitrios the beach of the same name is located, it is one of the most beautiful beaches of the island. From Ayios Dimitrios you can get to the small beach Petrousa.

The beach Megali Ammos in Kanala is on of the busiest beaches of Kythnos. It has a wide sandy beach – just as its name suggests – and is located on the right bay just below the church Panayia Kanala. On the left of the church you can swim in Antonides bay.

On the east part of the island you will find Ayios Stefanos beach. You will love the wide pebbled beach with many tamarisk trees of fering ample shade.

For those who prefer absolute tranquility while enjoying the sea, you can choose Mavrianos on the east side of the island, Simousi on the south-east side and Stifo which is on the way to Ayios Dimitrios.

The most impressive beach of Kythnos is Kolona: a strip of sand splits the sea in two forming two beaches on the same seashore. Fykiada and Flambouria (situated near the church of Panayia ) are among the most characteristic beaches of Kythnos, combining beautiful landscape with golden beaches.

4. Sightseeing on Kythnos

Kythnos Island is of a rather special archaeological interest, although various archaeological sites that are already known, have not yet been excavated. Maroulas, on the northern east side of the island, was the oldest prehistoric Cycladic establishment. This side dates back in the Mesolithic Period (8.500 – 6.500 B.C.). The excavations brought in light remnants of circular constructions which had been possibly used as residences; also, some burials were found there. Kythnos seems to have played an important role in the development of early metallurgy. An important site of Early Cycladic period (3rd millennium B.C.) was explored at Skouries, a sheer coast in the NE side of the island. There are many establishments of historic times. Several circular and rectangular towers from the classic ages stand out. The fortified acropolis, which is called Oria Castle today, is on the North steep side of the island. That acropolis was the capital of the island during the Byzantine times and the Latin occupation; but it seems that it had already been inhabited since prehistoric times. On the other side of the island on the SW coast, it seems that one more fortified acropolis was established, Kastellas; it was founded in the early historic ages but it was abandoned at the end of the archaic period. The ancient capital of the island, which is the NW side of the island and is called Vriokastro today, was called Kythnos according to ancient sources. The surface research has brought into light many findings and the town planning and the residential organization of the fortified town were clearly identified. According to the findings, that town was constantly inhabited from the 10th century B.C. to the 6th century A.D. The underwater excavation of the ancient port (Mandraki bay) from 2005 to this date is conducted by the University of Thessaly under the auspices of the Inspectorate of Marine Antiquities. Furthermore, two marble statues of the Roman Period and parts of the coastal fortified wall has been found. At the top of the Acropolis there is an important sanctuary dedicated to Demetra; it was in use from the 8th century B.C. to the 1st century A.D. At a lower level, an oblong wide and flat opening is formed along the ridge. Two monumental rectangular structures are found there, they are possibly temples that date back to the 4th or 3rd century B.C. Another sanctuary is found on the northern part of this opening. The excavations of the University of Thessaly, which are conducted under the auspices of the 21st Inspectorate from 2002 to this date, have lead to important discoveries. The findings date back to the archaic until the Hellenistic ages. Two built altars and next to them a twin temple which was probably constructed in the early archaic ages (7th century B.B.). The adytum of the temple was found intact with the numerous offerings in place. They are mostly price less jewels and offerings which date from the archaic ages. The identity of the worshiped gods remains unclear, despite the fact that there are indications that the sanctuary was dedicated to Apollo and Artemis. So far, ancient Kythnos was considered to be rather poor; this viewpoint had occurred from limited philological and inscribed evidence. But the wealth as well as the various and exotic provenance of the findings lead to a revision of that viewpoint.

Architecture on Kythnos island: Kythno’s settlements are typical of the Cyclades with differences mainly in architectural and topological elements of the dwellings, such as the use of tiled roofs, which is seen more in villages in locations protected by the wind, such as Dryopida. The integration of the settlements into the particularly arid landscape as well as the masterly human interventions on it with the famous dry walls and terraces are only some of Kythnos’ architectural peculiarities.

Churches on Kythnos: Kythnos is famous for its beautiful churches. Such churches are located in the island’s capital-Hora or Messaria- called St. Savas, church of the Savior, Holy Trinity, Theologos. A very interesting monastery of Our Lady is also located nearby. Situated on a magnificent hill is the Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and its annual celebrations on the 15th of August are a ‘must’ attend. Also located in the capital city are the churches of Ayia Triada, Metamorfosis, Agios Ioannis and Agios Panteleimonas, which are also of considerable interest. These churches will surely leave a lasting impression on your minds and make your trip to Kythnos unforgettable. Most of these 17th century masterpieces are concentrated in or around the capital city of Chora. Another interesting church is the Ayios Minas church which contains a brilliantly carved iconostasis and also a bishop’s throne made entirely out of marble. There are numerous other churches all over Kythnos; either you can visit the more famous churches for a glimpse in to the religious side of Kythnos or explore the less known ones for a true feel of authentic Kythnos.

Vriokastro: The most important site in times is Vryokastro of Rigokastro, as it is called today; it is on the northern east side of the island and according to the ancient sources it was called Kythnos. The surface research in 1990 – 1995 brought to light many findings and the town planning and the residential organization of the town were clearly identified. According to the findings it was constantly inhabited from the 10th century B.C. to the 6th – 7th century A.D. Among the numerous findings, there are sepulchral bas-reliefs, sculptures, architectural findings inscriptions, shards of archaic jars with bas-reliefs, the Attic pottery of archaic and classic ages, sealed handles of trading amphora and so on. Taking into account the surface pottery, the town was abandoned in the 6th or 7th century A.D. When the residents moved to the fortified settlement in Oria Castle.

The sanctuary of the Goddess Dimitra: At the top of the acropolis stands an important sanctuary which-according to the surface findings- was in use from the end of the 8th century B.C. up to the 1st century A.D. You can notice the remnants of the least four buildings (Numbers 1-4) and possibly of an altar. The number and kind of findings ( earth ware figurines of women –urn porters- children, various illuminating apparatus, elefsinian items ) as well as the inscriptions found at Demetra’s sanctuary in Elefsinia safely get to the conclusion that the sanctuary was dedicated to Demetra.

The ancient harbor: The underwater research and the excavation of the ancient harbor of Vryokastro in Mandraki bay started in 2005 and are still in progress. At the sea bottom the foundations of coastal walls have been located. In addition, a breakwater of 100 metres length which set to the South the entrance of the harbor. The whole basin and the buildings found on the shore and underwater have been imprinted. In 2007, one of those went under excavation; it is probably part of the sank coastal fortified wall. The excavation in 2008 and 2009 brought to light from the sea bottom important marble statues of the Roman Period, among which an armor-bearing torso of the 1st century B.C. and three hermetic steels of the 2nd century A.D.

The ancient metal mines on Kythnos: Somewhere round the middle of the 19th century, the increased demand for raw minerals materials created by the industrial revolution in the West, resulted in the operation of numerous mines on most Aegean islands. Kythnos is part of this change; from 1873 to 1940 iron mines were in operation. Nowadays, the mines are disused but they have obviously characterized the area. All over the island you can find the relies of the mining activity (administration buildings, workers’ house, loading platforms, galleries and other equipment). Taking the fact that the mines and the facilities are a peculiar, disdained –and in danger part of our technical- industrial civilization for granted, an alternative tourist solution has been put forward by students of the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA); it is for those related to the domain or willing to combine their holidays with cultural and educational purposes. A suggestion aiming firstly to the preservation of the mines and secondly to their prominence will be achieved combining on the one hand the historical, folklore, folklore and archaeological elements of interest of the island, and on the other hand the natural landscape with which they are completely harmonized.

Ayios Loukas island on Kythnos: It is situated to the northwest of Merichas, 3 kilometers away from Chora. A narrow strip of sand joins the island of Kythnos to the islet of Ayios Loukas, thus creating two amazing bays, it is a real paradise for yachts since it is a unique naturally formed double-edged and well protected bay. Furthermore, it is a suitable place for anchorage because it is well protected from the southerly and eastern winds.

The folklore museum in Driopida: The Folklore Museum of Kythnos is in Dryopida and hosts items that were used on a daily basis in Kythnos in the previous years, items of folk art, as well as traditional local costumes. The museum is an old residence which has been preserved exactly as the days when it was inhabited by its owners. It was created by the initiative of Dryopes Association and it is located behind Ayioi Apostoloi temple in Dryopida. There, you will have the chance to travel in time and get to discover a household of Thermia with all its household utensils related to agricultural and social life of the Kyrhnians.

Working hours 9:00 – 14:00 and 17:00 –20:00

The ecclesiastic and Byzantine museum on Kythnos: In Ayios Georgios church, in Dryopida, an ecclesiastic museum is hosted in a specially modified room. It was created after the initiative of priest Konstantinos Gonidis. In this museum there are several ecclesiastic exhibits from the Byzantine ages and several icons which have survived over the years.

Working hours 9:00 – 14:00 and 17:00 –20:00

5. Villages and settlements on Kythnos

Kythnos is a perfect island for romantic strolls, the picturesque villages of the island should not be missed, as well as the small Cycladic alley ways in each village. Chora is the capital of the island of Kythnos, located just 12 kilometers away from the port of Kythnos, Merichas. While in Chora, you should visit Saint Savvas with the inscription from the year 1613, the small church of Sotira that was built in the 17th century, the church of Saint Trinity which is the oldest church on the island, the monastery of Panayia of Nikous, where you can see the epitaph of the Virgin Mary. Each year on the 15th of August, there is a very big religious festival. You should also visit the monastery of Prodromos in Chordaki on Kythnos, there is a wooden sculpture here from the 16th century, the wind and the solar park which produces electric power by the strength of the wind and the sun. Located on the north eastern side of Kythnos, the seaside village of Loutra. Loutra is located at 11 km away from the port of Merihas and 4.5 km from Chora, the capital of the island. This is a very popular tourist place thanks to the natural beauty, the nice accommodations and the thermal springs that made the region famous all over the world. Of course, we must not miss the taverns and ouzo restaurants where you will spend unforgettable, ralaxing and peaceful moments. Once you reach Loutra, you will be charmed by their authentic Cycladic breeze, the beautiful houses and the impressive Hotel Xenia, constructed by the famous Bavarian architect Ernst Ziller. If you arrive in private yacht, you can moor at the organized marina of Loutra, as many people do! Loutra is an ideal base for excursions in Kythnos, either you want to visit secluded places by car or boat, or if you want to hike in close locations. For close excursions, choose Agia Irini, a picturesque bay with rich history. Apart from the beautiful sandy beach of Agia Irini, you can also visit the graves of the revolutionists who lost their lives in the antiregime events of 1862, known as Kythniaka. Heading north along the coastline, you shall meet some of the most beautiful beaches in Kythnos, like Shinari and Potamia, as well as Kavouroheris, Maroulas and Agios Sostis with the beautiful chapel. It is worth to mention that the region of Maroulas has been inhabited since the Mesolithic Period, according to archaeologists. The circular residences and graves excavated there belonged to the only country settlement in Greece during that era. All the mentioned beaches are calm and not affected by the wind, with golden sand or thin colorful pebbles. If you like hiking, it is worth to hike to the beautiful bay of Mamakos. You should visit the traditional settlement of Driopida or Sillaka as the area is called by the locals, you will admire the beautiful churches and the popular traditions that still revive and the sights in the museum. Driopida is the second largest village in Kythnos. It is found on the southern side of the island, at a distance of 8 km from Chora. This village is also called Chorio and it is inhabited since the ancient times, keeping the same name. In Driopida, you will also find the Katafyki Cave, one of the largest and most impressive caves in Greece, with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites formations. The cave was formed by an underground stream and it was used as a mine in the past. During World War II, this cave served as a hiding shelter for the residents of Driopida, you also should visit the old aqueduct of Duraka, the church of the Saint Minas with its wonderful wooden carvings, the Folklore museum with its rich collection of popular art. After the settlement of Driopida, the road lead to Flaburia, which the beautiful church with the same name, this church is one of the oldest churches on Kythnos. If you continue to the south west, you will find the beaches of Mavrianos, Trivlakas, Divlakas and Stifo, as well as small secluded bays with crystal waters. The beaches in this region are nice and remote, away from crowds. Galatas is one of the most picturesque quarters of the village, with many impressive churches. The most notable is the church of Agios Minas with a wooden-carved temple and a bishop throne, elaborate samples of folk art. The Folklore Museum of Kythnos is also found in Galatas. Kythnos is particularly famous for the pilgrimage to the church of Panagia Kanala. In this blessed location, the pine forest is harmonically combined with golden beaches, while from the picturesque coves visitors dive in the vastness of the Aegean Sea. The village took its name from the church of Panagia Kanala, the protector of the island. In this church, one of the most beautiful in Cyclades, you can see the miracle-working icon of Panagia, which was found by fishermen in a canal as the tradition says. On the right side of the church, there is a beautiful beach with deep blue water. Behind this beach, there is a second smaller beach with blue green water. On the southern side of the island is Agios Dimitrios, the most faraway village from Chora. This is a picturesque village with traditional taverns along its sandy beach. Large tamarisks and rocky formations make this place very interesting, while in August white lilies grow on the sand. From the village of Agios Dimitrios you can easily reach Petroussa and Alyki, two beaches with wild, virgin landscape. With car or boat, you can visit the beaches of Simousi, Gaidouromantra and Skylou, ideal places if you are looking for calm, sandy beaches.

6. The history and mythology of Kythnos

The first residents of the island were most probably Greek-Pelasgians, while in the Median years they were Driopes. Of historical importance are the Cyclopean Walls as well as the temples that remained after they left. After the Driopes the island was inhabited by Ionians. Later on, Aristotle refers to the Kythnian City and considers it as ideal. During the Roman Times the island was part of Achaias County and later on Byzantines included it in “Aegean Theme”.

In 1207 A.D. the French Empire also came into power on the island by the Venetian Marcus Sanoudus. In 1292 A.D, Thermia (this is how the island was named during the Medieval Times, due to the warm water fountains) was conquered by the admiral of Aragonia, while in 1537 it was conquered by the Russians. However, in 1827 the island gained back its ancient name-Kythnos- and participated in the battle for liberation against the Turks.

In 1862, rebels who came from the island of Syros on the boat “Karteria” battled against the army forces who had remained loyal to Othon and had arrived with the boat “Amalia”.

During the battles, those who were on the side of the royals conquered their opponents, and as result the rebels Leotsakos, Moraitinis & Skarvlelis were executed.

These facts gained their own place in the contemporary history and were named “Kythniaka”. Nowadays, in the cove of Ayia Eirini, next to Loutra, there is a marble plaque with all these names to the memory of these first rebels who fought for our country’s democracy.

A flourishing Ionian colony was established in Kythnos by kestoras and kelyfos during antiquity. The ancient Kythnians were involved with merchant marine. During the Persian Wars, they denied forming a coalition with the Persian King and fought with a trireme and a 50 towed ship. The ancient state of Kythnos was renowned for its good government and for this reason Aristotle made a special study on Kythnos in his work “Peri Kythnion Politeias”; unfortunately, this piece of work has not been saved. Furthermore, the ancient Kythnians excelled in letters and arts and the brought Timanthis and Kydias to prominence.

Kythnos had a major part in antiquity due to its location. Filip V, the king of Macedonia, deployed his army in Kyhtnos to check the roman attacks in 202 B.C. Indeed, after the Fall of Andras in 199 B.C. , the Romans tried to occupy Kythnos, but they failed. After a long siege they were forced to abandon the island because of its resistant fortification. One can find tracks of ancient cities on the south-west of the island , at Rigokastro of Evraiokastro, and on the north-west, at Kefalokastro. Kefalokastro seems to have been the capital of the island, but because of treason, it was destroyed by the Turks, in the 16th century.

Kythnos, like Makronissos and Giaros was also used by the Romans as a place of exile. But it because even more known from a fearless pirate called Nero. A large expedition was organized against him by Kalpournios Asprenatos, but the only managed to capture and kill pseudo – Nero.

THE ISLAND OF KYTHNOS IN GREEK MYTHOLOGY

According to the Greek mythology the creation of the Cyclades is attributed to the god, Neptune. It is said that the god of the sea transformed the nymphs, Cyclades, into islands, when they angered him.

Other legends refer to their name as being derived from the word meaning circle as the islands are scattered around the sacred island of Delos or because the winds that blow strongly in this area would force the boats to spin out of control.

Mythical fables are attributed to the formation of each island while legends reflect their turbulent history. Due to the location of the Cyclades between the continents of Greece, Asia and Africa, they were a trading link throughout their history and spread the development of culture to the surrounding regions.

According to the Greek mythology Zeus observed the birth of his son Apollo from the island of Kythnos since its advantaged location, in the heart of the Cyclades group of islands, gave him a vantage point to view his very own miracle. Thus the island is also known as the island of Apollo.

…Welcome to paradise…

7. Rent a car on Kythnos

COMING SOON

8. Useful information about Kythnos island

The island of simplicity and hospitality

Kythnos is a Cycladic island, between Kea and Serifos (West Cyclades), 52 nautical miles from the port of Piraeus and only 2 hours from the port of Lavrio. It belongs to the South Aegean Administration.

Kythnos is 99.3 square kilometers, with 104 km of coastline, 92 bays, coves and beaches, most of which are accessible by car.

The municipality of Kythnos includes the island of Kythnos as well as the surrounding islets. The municipality of Kythnos consists of the settlements of Chora, Dryopida, Agios Dimitrios, Agia Eirini, Agios Stefanos, Apokrousi, Loutra, Aousa, Gaidouramadra, Episkopi, Kalo Livadi, Kanala, Lefkes, Liotrivi, Merichas, Skylou, Flambouria and the islet Piperi.

VILLAGES – SETTLEMENTS ON KYTHNOS

FERRIES TO KYTHNOS

Kythnos and the Cyclades in general are connected to the ports of Piraeus and Rafina. From Kythnos you can also visit the nearby Cycladic islands of Kea, Syros, Kimolos, Serifos, Sifnos, Milos etc.

In addition, there are ferry connection from Kythnos ferry to the islands of Crete, Rhodes, and basically all Dodecanese and East Aegean Islands via a third island. Your trip to Kythnos can be with a conventional ferry boat, by High-speed or Flying dolphin depending on the day, the time and the ferry company you wish to travel with.

If you select to visit Kythnos with the conventional ferry your trip will take about 3 -5 hours while with a High-speed ferry 3.5-4.5 hours depending on how many ports the ferry will call at on the way.

Ferries from Piraeus to Kythnos run all year round on a daily basis. In summer of course there are more departures to choose from.

Piraeus – Kythnos – Serifos – Sifnos – Kimolos – Milos – Folegandros – Sikinos – Ios – Santorini
Milos – Kimolos – Sifnos – Serifos – Kythnos – Piraeus
Lavrio – Kea (Tzia) – Kythnos – Syros – Paros – Naxos – Folegandros – Sikinos – Ios – Thirassia – Santorini – Anafi
Lavrio – Kea (Tzia) – Kythnos – Syros – Serifos – Sifnos – Milos – Kimolos – Tinos – Andros
Lavrio – Kea (Tzia) – Kythnos – Syros – Paros – Naxos – Ios – Sikinos – Folegandros – Kimolos – Milos

Attention !

The above mentioned information is subject to alteration. To be sure about correct schedules, departure and arrival times of conventional and high-speed ferries check the ONLINE Booking System.

Useful telephone numbers on Kythnos

Police Station +3022810 – 31201

Port Police of Kythnos +3022810 – 32290

Municipality of Kythnos +3022810 – 31277

Port Police of Pireaus +30210 – 4226000-4 , 4199200

Port Police of Lavrio +3022920 25249

Community Clinic of Chora +3022810 – 31202

Community Clinic of Driopida +3022810 – 32234

Tourist Information +3022810 – 32250

Pharmacy +3022810 – 32240

Welcome to Kythnos!

If you would like to visit the beautiful island of Kythnos, you may book your accommodation through our site and get a special discount. If you have fallen in love with Kythnos and you wish to stay, then perhaps you should look at some of the real estate on Kythnos. If you need any extra information, then please contact us here information@abettergreece.com or +30 69 34 620 501 / +30 22840 24 879