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PAROS
Paros, the third largest of
Cyclades after Naxos and Andros has developed into an important center of tourism in
recent years.
Gently rolling hills surround the center and south-east
of the island which is predominately agricultural and is occupied by endless vineyards,
and lock within themselves the famous Parian marble.
The coastline is indented, with numerous small inlets and
two large bays, those of Naoussa in the north and Parikia in the west. Paros has been
inhabited since very ancient times, and was one of the centers of the Cycladic
civilization.
Parikia
Other interesting local evens take place on the island during the summer
Statues found at various sites on Paros are on display in
the National Archaeological Museum, Athens.
Naoussa
The chapels and monasteries of Paros are famed for their
picturesqueness; among the most characteristic are the monastery of Zoodohos Pigi
'Longovarda' and that of Christ of the Forest (Hristos tou Dassous).
Paros is an ideal destination for those in search of cosmopolitan bustle and for lovers of
solitude alike. It has a full range tourist amenities.
Antiparos
Area 35 sq. km.
Distance from Paros (Pounda) 1 nautical mile.
Distance from Paros (Parikia) 4.5 nautical miles.
Antiparos and Paros are divided by a narrow channel. The island is notable for its golden,
sandy beaches and for its authentic natural beauty. The capital, Antiparos or
Kastro,
stands around the original nucleus of the medieval castle. Among the principal attractions
of Antiparos is the famous cave of stalactites on Agios Ioannis hill. There is a chapel to
St. John of the Cave (Agios Ioannis Spiliotis) at the mouth of the cavern. Antiparos has a
number of beaches with golden sand and blue-green water. Every year, more and more
visitors come to Antiparos, and as a result the hotels and limited number of rooms to rent
have difficulty in meeting demand at peak periods. All around Antiparos are scores of tiny
islands, like guards posted out at sea, inhabited only by wild rabbits and pigeons.
Archaeologists have investigated two of these islets: Despotiko produced traces of tombs
of the Early Cycladic period, and Saliangos has the ruins of a Neolithic settlement.
How to get there
Useful telephone numbers
Things to buy
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