The Greek island of Paros is part of the Cycladic archipelago. The world-famous marble, from which architects built many ancient structures and sculptures, is mined in the island’s mountains. For example, they used it for the Venus of Milos and the temples of Apollo, Hermes, Solomon, and others on different Greek islands.
Most of the island’s landscape is occupied by plains on which olive and palm groves are planted. There is also an abundance of grapevines and golden sandy beaches. The island is called romantic and is very popular with tourists from all over the world.
It is not only the Paros luxury villas that will interest you. Surroundings with a relaxing atmosphere, monuments, and monasteries, in harmony with the Cycladic culture of the island. Parikia is the capital and is home to many architectural and historical monuments.
Attractions
The island has a lot to offer. Here is a list of the top places to check:
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The Venetian castle, built on the ruins of temples, dominates the hilltop in the center of Parikia.
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To the east of Marples rises the hill of Kefalos, with the monastery of Agios Antonios on top (14th century).
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On a hill to the north of Parikia are the ruins of the temple of Apollo Dilio (early 5th century). At its center is an altar dedicated to Apollo’s sister, Artemis.
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On the hill of Agia Anna, south of the coastal road, there is a sanctuary of Asklepios, the god of medicine (4th century BC). In the same area are the ruins of the temple of Pythian Apollo.
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At 5 km from Parikia, you can visit the valley with the butterflies.
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East of the picturesque village of Marathi, there are marble quarries. It is where the famous Parian marble, or “lychnis,” was quarried.
The History
The history goes back to the 4th millennium B.C. Then, it was the center of early Cycladic civilization. During the great movements of the Ionian people, a.e. the end of the 2nd millennium B.C., colonists from Attica settled. However, the pirates constantly attacked the island.
Thus the exploitation of marble quarries aided tremendous economic prosperity during all the historical periods. In addition, people learned about white marble’s unique texture and purity throughout the Greek world. It was used for both sculpture and architecture.
It is famous for its fertile lands. Wine, known since ancient times, olive oil, cereals, various fruits, and vegetables are produced here. In particular, viticulture has been experiencing a new boom in recent years, and the vintage wines, bottled in the island’s modern wineries, are known worldwide. In addition to agriculture, the inhabitants are engaged in fishing and cattle breeding. Today, tourism has changed the lifestyle of the inhabitants, but olives and vines are still paying off.
It is a beautiful vacation spot and offers all the services needed by the modern traveler – numerous hotels, cafeterias, restaurants, taverns, and all kinds of water sports. In addition, the island has a great water park (Aqua Water Park). A unique bus service runs between the island’s capital, Parikia, and the water park.
Tastes
Have a taste of the dishes in one of the local restaurants: chickpeas baked in the oven, snail stew, spinach cod, a variety of fresh fish and seafood dishes, bean salads with garlic sauce, stifado hare, local cheeses (graviera, mizithra), olives and of course, wines from the famous vineyards.
Its place is ideal for both youth and family holidays, as well as for romantic trips.You will be pleased if you plan a vacation in Paros villas with a private pool.