Paros island at a glance
The Greek island of Paros in Cyclades is one of the most popular islands of Greece. Paros is located in the heart of the Cyclades, in the Aegean Sea, next to Naxos Island and nearby Mykonos Island. Paros is one of the most well-known Greek islands because of its exquisite sandy beaches, the crystal clear waters, its scenic little villages with the whitewashed houses around the narrow paved scenic paths, contrasted by the colourful bougainvilleas and the lovely blue-white chapels. The main town of Paros is Parikia, whilst the most cosmopolitan spot of Paros Island is Naoussa Town. Paros Island has numerous beaches of all tastes and needs and important sights as well.
Paros Sightseeing
Church of Ekatontapliani
Located in Parikia, just 200 meters away from the port, this is the most imposing church in the Cyclades and one of the most important in Greece, approximately 1.600 years old. On the 15th of August its nameday ( and a public holiday) is celebrated with a lot of festivities. Its history begins in the 4th century AD. During her search for the Holy Cross, Saint Helen stopped in Paros and prayed in a small shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary, promising that if she found the Holy Cross, then she would built a grand church in the Holy Mother’s name. This promise was kept by her son Emperor Constantine the Great.The Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani also houses the Ecclesiastical Museum, which displays rare ecclesiastical artwork, wood carvings and heirlooms from the Byzantine Era
Archaeological Museum
The museum is located just behind the church of Ekatontapiliani. A fragment of the 3rd-century Parian Chronicle is the most important exhibit - next to many other interesting findings. The Archaeological Museum in Parikia displays a variety of objects from the Neolithic Era, the Archaic Period, the Classical Period and the Roman Era, such as pottery, marble idols, grave stones, inscriptions, marbles etc.
Frankish Castle
The Frankish Castle in Parikia was built in the 13th century, by the Duke of Naxos Marco Sanudo, during the Venetian Rule of the island. It had incorporated parts of Archaic and Classical Temples, of which only a section of the Archaic Temple of Athena still exists. Inside the castle there are small chapels that are built into castle walls.
Sanctuary of Asklipios
On Agia Anna Hill, located a short distance from Parikia, is the Sanctuary of the god of medicine, Asklipios. The sanctuary was built in the 4th century BC, around a spring. Remains of the Temple of Pythios Apollo also exist in the area.
The Delion Sanctuary
Approximately 1 kilometer from Parikia, up on a hill, is the Delion Sanctuary. The temple was the place of worship of the god Apollo of Delios. The original structure was built in the 9th – 8th century BC. Later on, in the 5th century BC, a new temple dedicated to Artemis was also built.
The butterfly valley
The Butterfly Valley in Psychopiana, approximately 6 kilometers from Parikia, is the finest natural site on Paros Island. It is an area of lush vegetation and running waters. Visitors are amazed by this fairy tale land, where thousands of butterflies flutter all around, creating a breathtaking image. You should visit the butterflies during summer.
The Venetian Castle in Naoussa
The Venetian Castle can be found at the northern edge of the port of Naoussa. It was built in the 15th century by the Venetian Dynasty Sommaripa. Today, it is half-sunken beneath the surface of the sea. The port of Naoussa was once a safe haven for the pirates that pillaged the island.THE MYCENAEAN
Acropolis of Kolimbithres
The Acropolis, located in Koukounaries, above Kolimbithres Beach, was constructed in the 13th century BC. After the Acropolis was destroyed by an earthquake, a Geometric settlement was built on the same spot in the 10th century BC and became a significant city till the Archaic Period. Visitors who make the effort to reach the site are awarded with a superb view.
The Ancient Cemetery is located near the port of Parikia and is dated from the 8th to the 3rd century BC. The cemetery includes a variety of graves of many different types and from different eras.
The Church of Agios Canstantinos in Parikia is famous for its splendid architecture, its gilded, wood carved screen and unique Post-Byzantine icons.
The Monastary of Loggovardas was established in 1638 by the monk Paleologos. It is an impressive monastery, with splendid hagiographies and icons and it includes an excellent library.
The Three Post-Byzantine Churches - At close proximity to Parikia, on the road towards Naoussa, are the Three Churches (Tris Ekklisies). It is a copmplex of Post-Byzantine churches.
The Church of Agios Nikolaos in Naoussa - The little whitewashed church of Agios Nikolaos, situated at the fishing port of Naoussa, is the protector of the fishing boats.
The Ancient Marble Quarry is located in a small village in the center of Paros Island and has a very special legacy; its ancient marble quarry dating back to the 3rd millenia BC.
Kefalos Hill is located in the traditional village of Marpissa.
The Ancient Shipyard in Drios is situated on the beach of Drios. Basically, they are deep grooves that are carved into large, wide rocks. In ancient times they were used as lifting devices and as shelter for ships.
The Church of Agia Triada in Lefkes is located on a hill above the village of Lefkes, is an impressive structure, made of exquisite Parian marble.
The Monastery of Agios Ionnis Kaparos is located approximately 2.5 kilometers from Lefkes village.
The Chapel of Agios Georgios Thalassitis in Logaras was built in the 13th century A.D.
The 'Skorpios' Folklore Museum in Aliki contains a collection of miniature sailing boats, fishing boats and ships, constructed by the artist Benetos Skiadas.