Naming: According to mythology the island was named after its first inhabitant whose name was Milos.

(According to mythology, Milos was the son of a Cyprian royal family, who was sent by the goddess
Aphrodite to inhabit the island after his parents’ suicide.) Etymologically, though, the name ‘’Milos’’ is
probably a transformation of the pre-Hellenic word ‘’βήλος’’ meaning ‘’sheep’’.

Population: Approximately 5,000 inhabitants (4.744 people based on the 2001 census).

Location: Milos is the 5th biggest island of Cyclades (there are 24 Cycladic islands in total) and it is situated in
their southwest edge. It is 86 miles (138,40 km.) from Piraeus and it is almost in the middle of the Piraeus-
Crete sea route. The island’s latitude is from 3646’ 27’’ to 3638’ 37’’, whereas its longitude is from 24 19’ 01’’
to 24 32 47’’.

Size: 158 km2 .

Shape: The island’s shape is irregular and it resembles that of a horseshoe. From North to South its length
reaches the 11.2 km, whereas from East to West it reaches the 17,6km. In its centre it turns narrow and the
sea penetrates deep into the land creating the harbor of Milos, one of the biggest and most secure natural
ports in the Mediterranean sea.

Ground Morphology: The island is relatively mountainous, without arboraceous vegetation and with low
mountain height that does not exceed the 400m.

Higher mountain peak: Prophitis Ilias-751m high.

Climate: The island’s climate is mild Mediterranean, with adequate sunshine in the most days of the year.
From the middle of July and until the middle of August the etesian winds blow (north periodic winds) and
as for the south winds they are usually neither frequent nor strong.

Administration: Milos constitutes one Municipality, the Municipality of Milos and its capital is Plaka. As far as
administration is concerned it belongs to the prefecture of Cyclades where the city of Ermoupolis in Syros is
the capital.

Fields of Activity: In the past, Milos had developed the rural production to an adequate degree. Nowadays,
the most important position is occupied by the secondary sector in which we find the mining of industrial
materials, whereas the tertiary sector and more specifically the tourist activity is under rapid development.

History of Milos

Mesolithic Period & Neolithic Period (10.000 BC.-3.200BC.)

The historic data and findings prove that there has been human presence on the island since the Mesolithic
period, around 8.000 years BC. The island’s first inhabitants were probably Phoenicians or Kares, whereas the
Melian obsidian found in the cave of Frachthie in Peloponnesus (7.000-8.000BC.) as well as the palaces in
Crete (7.000BC.) prove that Milos had begun its development already from the prehistoric period.

Thanks to its strategic location between the mainland of Greece and the island of Crete, thanks to its
natural and safe port and mainly thanks to the mining of obsidian (black, hard, volcanic stone that was used for
the manufacture of weapons and tools), Milos was the one of the first Aegean islands to have prospered and
which started to create an important civilization.

During the Neolithic period in the areas of Nychia and Demenegaki, there used to be installations for the
mining of obsidian out of which knives, blades, spear-heads and many more tools and arms were made.
The obsidian tools discovered during the archaeological researches in various Greek places (Thessaly,
Peloponnesus, Crete and elsewhere), even in Egypt, are adequate proofs of the early commercial
navigation developed by the Melians.

Bronze Age (3200BC.-1100BC.)

The scattered huts where the Melians used to live during the Neolithic age were abandoned and the most
rural communities were united in one big settlement, called Fylakopi. Fylakopi, apart from being an
important center of the Cycladic civilization, it is considered to be as one of the first European cities of a
history over 1500 years.

The settlement’s habitation had already started since 3000BC, but it was abandoned in 1100BC after the
passing of three historic periods. The building of houses started in the pre-residential age (3200BC-
2300BC). In the 1st historic period (2300-2000BC), the settlement is of around 200 meters (quite big
according to the data of that period in the Aegean sea), it does not have any organized laid-out
disposition, but it presents a relatively organized cemetery. At the same time, during that period the use
of stone is discovered and the obsidian exports are multiplied leading to the Melians’ complete
commercial flourishing. In the 2nd period (2000-1600BC.) walls were built for the protection of any
possible raids, the tombs were already located outside the walls, whereas the houses were in a terraced
disposition on the hill. In that period the ceramic art was particularly developed with already clear
Minoan influences and the trade relations of the Melians were further developed in various parts of
Greece and mostly in Crete. This period ends with the destruction of Fylakopi, possibly by fire set by
invaders, whereas the city’s 3rdhistoric period (1600-1110BC.) begins with the building of the third
settlement. During this last period Fylakopi presents an organized, complex, town planning design, a
fortification with high cyclopean walls exceeding the 6 meters in depth and bigger houses, some of which
were two-storeyed. In the beginning of this period the influence of the Minoan civilization was intense
(parts of a table with the Minoan Linear A were discovered), but slowly the Mycenaean element
penetrates and finally it prevails. Around 1400BC a palace according to the Mycenaean style was built
with a lot of rooms and a two-room sanctuary. In addition, great works of sculpture and ceramic art
are produced, the most significant example of which is the “Kyra of Fylakopi”. (It is exhibited in the
Archaeological Museum). Since 1200BC reorganizations take place in the Aegean area, known trading
roads are abandoned, whereas the Minoan and the Mycenaean cultures have already faded. In that
period the city of Fylakopi was no longer a commercial center and started to fall into decay until it
got completely abandoned in 1100BC.

Archaic Age (1100BC- 480BC)

After the abandonment of Fylakopi, Dorian settlers came to the island as colonists from Lakonia and
together with the preceding inhabitants they built a new city more west in today’s region of Klima.
(This region was located between the hills of Prophitis Ilias, of Pyrgianti and Klimatovouni, whereas it
stretched out from the sea to Trypiti village and on the outskirts of Plaka). This new city allowed the
Melians to oversee the island’s gulf for any possible pirates’ raids, the city had a port and it was
naturally fortified by the presence of the three hills. Simultaneously, the inhabitants fortified it also with
walls all the way to the sea and they constructed big public buildings, the ancient theatre, an aqueduct, a
gymnasium, a market-place, sanctuaries and a cemetery.

In this period the city of Klima presents intense financial and cultural development. The ceramic art
flourishes with the famous “Melian urns” decorated with elements from the Greek mythology, the
sculpture, the miniature art, the seal engraving on stones, the goldsmithery with the filigree technique,
whereas we have the mint of coins originally carrying the apple symbol. In addition, during that times,
there is an increase in the trading activities, the exploitation of ores, whereas the local-Melian alphabet
is also developed, samples of which are preserved till the present day in tombstones.

Classical Age (480BC-323BC)

In the Persians Wars, the Melians fought together with the rest of the Greeks against the Persians. They
participated in the Naval Battle of Salamis (480BC.) and in the battle of Plataea (479BC.) by sending a
team of hoplites to fight together with the Spartans.

In the Peloponnesian War, however, they tried to remain neutral. When asked by the Athenians, the
Melians refused to participate in the Athenian- Delian alliance and thus they were lead to a siege that
lasted many months and ended up with a total destruction. In 426BC the Athenians sent the general
Nicias with 60 triremes and 2000 hoplites so as to force Milos to access to the Alliance. In spite of the
destructions, the island was not conquered this time. However, 10 years later, with Alcibiades’ urge a new
Athenian expedition was decided/set out with Cleomedes and Tisias as commanders. After vain
negotiations, 3000 men besieged Milos for nearly two years. They destroyed the city, they killed most of
the men and they sold the women and children as slaves, and in the end they sent also 500 cleruchs
(klirouxous) in order to secure their rule over the island.
This expedition is described and narrated in length in the best possible way in the works of
Thucydides (book E’) in the famous dialogue of between the Athenians and the Melians , where the love
for freedom and neutrality yields to the might is right. (Moreover, Euripides in his play “Trojan Women”
blames the Athenians for the destruction of Milos and for their expansionist policy, in general).

In 403BC with the end of the Peloponnesian War and the victory of the Spartans, by Lycander’s
initiative those Melians who survived the massacres returned to the island and slowly started to rebuilt
the ruined city.

Hellenistic Age (323BC.-146BC.)

After the year 311BC, Milos, just like all the Cycladic islands, goes under the sway of the Macedonians
and then of the Antigonid Dynasty and the Ptolemaic Dynasty of Egypt.

The peaceful status that reigned during those times, combined with the liberty and safety at sea,
contributed to the beginning of a new era of flourishing and prosperity during which Milos mint coins
and created great works of art, such as the statue of Poseidon ( a statue of 2,17m. made of Parian
marble) representing the god Poseidon in a imposing look and with his right arm raised as if holding
a trident. The statue was discovered in 1877 and it is kept in the Archaeological Museum of Athens).
Moreover, in the Hellenistic Age, the island’s most famous statue was made: the famous Aphrodite of
Milo.

Roman Age (146BC.-324)

During the Roman occupation, the island’s development carries on thanks to the preservation of peace
and to the further exploitation and trading of the mineral wealth. The arts flourished, remarkable
statues were made (e.g. the statue of Marcus Trophimos) and iconographic heads, whereas in that
period the Ancient-Roman theatre was constructed on the island.

The region of “Tramythia” became the city center. There, in 1896 a unique mosaic of vines, fish and
wild animals was discovered which was the floor of Dionysus’s sanctuary.

During that entire period Christianism began to spread on the island. In the Acts of the Apostles there
is mention to the Apostle Paul’s trip from Crete to Athens and to the shipwreck on rugged coasts.
Some researchers claim that Christianity in Milos was taught by the Apostle Paul himself, whereas
others support that it took place through the Jews who used to live in Milos in those years and who
were trading minerals. Whatever is true, Christianity spread in Milos very rapidly from already the
1st century, whereas the believers carved the rocks and created the pre-Christian Catacombs for their
sacraments to take place and for the burial of their deceased ones.

Byzantine Age (324-1204)

After the split of the Roman empire into west empire and east empire, Milos passes under the rule of
Byzantium, whereas in 842 it is included in the 17th theme of the Byzantine empire, in “the Theme of the
Aegean” with Rhodes as capital. The data for this long period is scarce, since the Empire was vast and
the piracy was extremely extensive.

The important facts of the period take place in the 5th-6th century, when Klima- that used to be the
capital back then- was deserted due to raids and earthquakes and in the 8th-9th century in the age of
the Iconoclasm when the Melians along with the rest of the islanders revolted for religious reasons
against the central authority of Constantinople, but the revolution was crushed.

Venetian Domination & Turkish Domination (1204-1820)

After the fall of Constantinople by the Franks , Milos along with most of the Aegean islands gets
conquered by Marcus Sanoudos, who founded the Archipelagos duchy, with Naxos as its capital and on
the inhabitants of Milos the financial and social system of feudalism is imposed. The discontent and the
overwhelming of the local farmers leads to a revolution in 1268. The Melians seize the Castle hoping
for the aid of the byzantine fleet, which however never arrived and thus the revolt was put down.
The Sanoudian Dynasty lasted till 1361. Afterwards, they were succeeded by the Krispi Dynasty until
1566. During their dynasty the Castle was abandoned and the capital was moved to the interior of
Milos, to the region of Zefyria. In that period, Milos began to turn into a pirates’ hide-out. The empire of
the East Mediterranean (Venice) was unable to control the pirate raids and in 1537 Milos is occupied
by the notorious pirate Khayr-Din Barbarossa, on behalf of the Turks.

At the start of the Turkish occupation (1566-1579), Milos is ruled by Joseph Nazis who was also the
last duke of the islands. Afterwards, all the Cycladic islands, including Milos are under the command of
the Sultan Murat the 3rd . In the years of the Turkish occupation, Milos was relatively favored, as the
Turks did not inhabit the island permanently; they just collected their taxes through the Delegates (local
commissars who were elected by the people every Sunday of the Orthodoxy and who had administrative
and religious duties). Thus, the inhabitants of Milos were able to preserve a relative freedom and to
cultivate their relationship with the sea. During this period, the corsairs retreated and the Saracen pirates
(Muslims) began their sacks and raids.

The Turkish rule was stopped in 1770 when the Russians appeared in the Aegean area, but some
years later it was restored once again. An important event of this period is the decline of Zefyria from
being the island’s capital, and the city’s complete abandonment in 1767.

Modern Hellenistic Age (1821-1945).

Milos was the third island in Greece to revolt against the Turks. On April 11, 1821 the first naval battle
of the revolution took place in Adamantas port. The Melians, who did not have their own fleet, helped
the squadron of the ships from Spetses to destroy the Turkish ships.

The Melians’ participation in the naval battle of Navarino was also important, when the death of Petros
Mikelis from Milos gave rise to the prevalence of hostilities. Petros Mikelis, by order of the English
admiral Codrington met the Egyptian admiral Moharem Bey so as to tell him to withdraw his fleet and
to remain neutral. However, on his way back, Petros Mikelis was shot by a sailor of the fleet and his
death gave rise to the start of the naval battle of Navarino which ended with the destruction of the
Turkish- Egyptian fleet.

In 1830 Milos is officially included in the Greek state and it starts to prosper based on the exploitation
of its mineral wealth.

In the Balkan Wars many Melians were killed. In their honor the War Memorial in Plaka (for 97
deceased) as well as the War Memorial in the central square of Adamantas were built.

In the First World War Milos sheltered the English-French fleet and Adamantas was used as a naval
base for the control of the East Mediterranean Sea against the attacks of the German submarines.

In the Second World War, the island was occupied by the Germans on May 6th, 1941 and it was
liberated 4 years later, being almost the last one, on May 9th 1944. During the German occupation, the
Germans put strong anti-aircraft systems and radars and guns, whereas they opened tunnels in
Adamantas for the safe-keeping of foods and ammunition. The inhabitants resisted bravely all those
years, many of them died of hunger and in wartime, whereas many more catastrophes and
bombardments took place.

Villages

Milos is studded with eight 8 picturesque small villages, excellent samples of island architecture.

Adamantas

This modern seaside village is situated inside the bay of the island, which is one of the biggest and safest
natural bays of the Mediterranean sea, and it constitutes the largest tourist center of Milos.
Adamantas is its main port and the first view to look upon when approached by ship.

Built on the north side of the bay, Adamantas or ‘’Alamanto” as it used to be called, has been inhabited since
1824. It was built by Cretan refugees expelled from Sfakia, who came to Milos after their failed and bloody
revolution against the Turks. Nowadays, the village numbers around 1100 inhabitants.

This seaside island town is composed of small snow-white houses with small yards decorated with flowers and
narrow quite lanes which altogether compose a picture of excellent Cycladic beauty. The village of Adamantas
throbs with life in summertime. In this village you can combine relaxation and calmness with night life and
entertainment, whereas at the same time everything you need for comfortable and pleasant vacations is
provided to you: [there are] cafes, restaurants, ouzeries, pizzerias, grill-houses, fast-foods serving souvlaki, a
bar, a club, shopping centers, supermarkets, banks, the port authority, the customs, a health center, a pharmacy,
a dental clinic, a newsstand for Greek and international press, etc. Here, the island’s night life is intense with
bars playing various kinds of music that speed up the rhythms and the entertainment tempo till the very break
of dawn.

On the port’s left side you can find the parking lot and then the Lagkada quarter with the Lagkada beach,
whereas on the port’s right side the main coastal road stretches out leading to the village’s central square
where the bus stop lies, and the taxis await you. On the one side of this coastal road, there is a long tiled
pavement, cafeterias, restaurants and tourist shops as well as the municipal Hot Springs of Lakkos, whereas
on its left side stand the relatively new port facilities which combined with the safety of the natural port, make
Adamantas suitable for yachting activities. (From that point also the trips with boats and touring yachts set
out reaching for the inaccessible beaches of the island and also for the tour around Milos and Kimolos).

If you desire to swim, Adamantas can offer that to you, too. Within a short distance and accessible without the
use of any means of transportation, lie the beaches of Lagkada (500m from the center of Adamantas) and the
beaches of Papikinos (1km away from Adamantas).

Finally, the sights of Adamantas include also : the church of The Assumption of the Virgin, the catholic church
of Saint Nikolaos, the Mineral Museum and the Church Museum where the one thousand year old church
of The Holy Trinity is housed.

Plaka

Nowadays, Plaka is the island’s capital and it is also one of the most intact capitals of Cyclades.
Its name comes from the level ground upon which the houses of its first inhabitants were built, when the Castle
(Kastro) could no longer house the entire population.

Built on a hillock of 220m above sea level, with the use of island colors and according to the Cycladic
architecture, with picturesque tiled alleys originally built for the protection against pirates, with small
traditional shops, restaurants and cafeterias and with a magical view to the bay of Milos, Plaka composes a
scenery of infinite beauty that you must visit and explore. (The circulation of cars is forbidden).

On the hill top of Plaka lies the imposing Venetian “Castle” dated from the 13th century from where you can
enjoy idyllic sunsets with beautiful colors and the panoramic view to the island’s bay, as well as to neighboring
Cycladic islands. The Assumption of the Virgin or else “Mesa Panaghia” is the church to be found on the top of
the Castle, whereas climbing up to the Castle and descending from it, you will find another exquisite church
built on a black rock: The Ypapanti of Christ or Panaghia Thalassitra. Moreover, do not miss out to visit
‘’Panaghia Korfiatissa” which is the island’s cathedral from where you can enjoy a dreamy sunset right from
its marble yard.

Lastly, in the traditional settlement of Plaka, you will find most of the public services and the two museums that
preserve the island’s cultural heritage, meaning its archaeological and folklore heritage.

Triovasalos and Pera Triovasalos

Setting out from the port and before we reach Plaka, the first villages we find are Triovasalos and Pera
Triovasalos.
These two almost continuing villages have been created on two neighboring hills, they are densely populated
and amphitheatrically built, whereas they have a considerable commercial activity. In Triovasalos,
‘’Karavodromos’’ constitutes the island’s focal point, where banks, public services, cafeterias and commercial
shops are located. Lastly, in Triovasalos and in Pera Triovasalos, you can visit the two significant churches of
these villages: the church of Saint Spryindon and the church of Saint George respectively.

Plakes

Plakes, the small village with the white houses and alleys, is situated between Plaka and Triovasalos. It was
built at the foot of the Castle and is name originated from the fact that the region was level (“Plakes” means
straightening). Should you go to Plakes, you can visit the island’s church dedicated to Saint Haralabos, where
you will see the icon of Panaghia Akradiotissa, one of the island’s oldest icons. Finally, from Plakes you can go
easily and quickly to the amazing beach of Plathiena.

Pollonia or Apollonia is a picturesque fish village of 300 inhabitants, built around a pretty creek on the
northeast edge of the island.

Pollonia is the island’s second port after the port of Adamantas. Possibly, it was named after the temple of
Apollo that existed on the Lighthouse of Pelekouda (on the left side of the settlement).

The distance from Athamantas is 10 kilometres, and from Plaka 14 kiliometres. From there, there is
transportation to Psathis which is the port of the neighboring island of Kimolos. Small boats, sea-taxis and
ferry-boats transfer you from Pollonia to Kimolo within 30 minutes at the most.

This settlement has a beach with a rich seaside, many rooms to let and hotels, as well as plenty of taverns,
restaurants and island cafes that stretch up to the church of Saint Paraskevi at the settlement’s right end. In the
pier that lies in front of the church, you can find the fishing boats of the locals coming every morning packed
with fish, octopuses and lobsters; from there also tour boats set out for the Cave of Papafragas and
for Glaronisia.

On the left side of Pollonia lies the chapel of Saint Nikolas and Pelekouda which is a picturesque peninsula
worth visiting as according to the tradition, the couple that sits on the small rock shaped as a chair that exists
there, will be together forever.

Finally, on the way to Pollonia, you will find the ruins of the ancient city of Fylakopi as well as the beaches
of Mytakas, Agios Konstantinos, Papafragas and Kapros , while leaving the village heading south, you will
reach Theioryheia (sulphur mines).

Trypiti is a traditional, well-preserved settlement, almost united with Plaka, built amphitheatrically on
the ruins of the classic city of Klima.

Its name originates from its soft volcanic stones that looked as if they were drilled just like many holes that are
carved on the rock upon which it is built.

The Church of Saint Nikolaos dominates in the center of the village, whereas in this village unique, scenic
windmills are preserved that in old times were used for the grinding of cereals and nowadays most of them
have been turned into rooms to let.

In Trypiti you can enjoy the panoramic view to the Adamantas bay and also gastronomic dishes at the snack-
bars and restaurants of the village. In a nearby distance you can visit the Catacombs and the Ancient Theater
even on foot.

Zefyria is located in the center of East Milos within a distance of 5,5 km from Adamantas and 9km from
Plaka.

It was created by the Venetians in the 13thcentury, it prospered and became the capital of the island due to the
existence of pirates and it was deserted in 1767 as it was destroyed by earthquakes and by epidemic caused by
the gasses from the cracks which forced its inhabitants to emigrate.
Today Zefyria constitutes a lively rural settlement of about 150 residents and passing from there you can go
to Agia Kyriaki beach and Palaiohori beach.

In this settlement, the old cathedral of Milos is preserved: Panaghia Portiani, with the church of Saint Nikolaos
built on the same wall, and every fifteenth of August one of the most important festivals of the island takes
place in honor of the Virgin Mary.

Traditional Villages

Klima, Mantrakia, Fyropotamos, Areti, Aghios Konstantinos, Fourkovouni and Empoureio are the main
traditional settlements of Milos and they are small fishing harbors. They are built on small creeks, dug on soft
stone or on the natural concavities of the rocks and they are of a rare island architecture.

A visit to these settlements will certainly make a good impression on you as their colors and vividness are
impressive. A special characteristic of these settlements are the “syrmata” , which are undercut accommodation
next to the sea, painted in vivid colors originally used for the protection of the fishermen’s boats during the
winter and in times of bad weather, but later on they were turned into fishermen’s houses and summer
accommodation.

On the way to Pollonia on your left you will see a small detour leading to the small and quiet seaside settlement
of Aghios Konstantinos. The settlement’s beach is quite beautiful and quiet, on its right side among the rocks
two small caves are formed from where the waters come in and out and which are certainly worth exploring.

Areti is a very small fish village with a small beach and colorful boat houses.

Empourio is a small and quiet settlement in the northwest side of the island (17km from Plaka) which used to
be an important commercial center. Today it is almost deserted; there is a small harbor, a small scenic tavern
next to the sea and a beach to enjoy your swimming. It is the perfect place for nature-worshippers and for those
who detest crowds of people, whereas within a short distance lies the quiet beach of Fatourena.
Fyropotamos is a seaside settlement with a small, yet organized beach, appropriate for swimming and fishing. It
is full of tamarisks and a creek surrounded by “syrmata”. At its edge, after the fishing houses, you will see the
deserted ladder used for loading and the Church of Saint Nikolaos.

Fourkovouni A very small fish village with a small beach and colorful boat houses.

Klima is a traditional fishing village with very few inhabitants and multicolored two-storeyed houses in the
natural concavities of the rocks. On the ground floor, in the so-called ‘’syrmata’’ the fishermen’s boats were
kept, whereas the families used to live on the top floor. Today most of these ‘’syrmata’’ are for rent and you can
always take excellent photos surrounded by the playful colors of their doors and windows among cats laying
indolently under the sun.
Furthermore, in the wider are of Klima, you can visit the ruins of the old city and the island’s first port. After the
decline and destruction of Fylakopi, the Dorians built the second biggest city of the island (1100BC.-800BC.)
extending from the south part of Trypiti to the region of today’s Klima. Today, you can visit the two acropolises
of the settlement: the hill of Prophitis Ilias and Pyrgaki, you can see parts of the wall in the market-place, parts
of the temple dated from the Hellenistic and the Roman period, parts of the ancient theatre as well as the spot
where the statue of Aphrodite of Milo was discovered. Go downhill till the end of the Trypiti road towards the
Catacombs, park your car there and walk on the path. At first, you will find the walls of the ancient city and a
few steps further away, in a region where the gymnasium was supposedly standing, you will see the spot where
the local farmer discovered the famous statue of the goddess Aphrodite (120BC.) in 1820. If you keep walking
on the earth-road, you will reach the ancient Roman theater, from where there is a path for the daring ones
which leads to the settlement of Klima.

Mantrakia is another fishing village with “syrmata” and summer houses situated 5km northwest of Plaka. In the
settlement there are rooms to let and a restaurant, whereas within a very short distance there is the beach of
Sykia, which is a small beach of almost 150m with dark gray pebbles and deep blue water.

Patrikia is a very small fish village with a small beach and colorful boat houses.

Protected Area Natura 2000

While visiting the island, you can admire an open-air museum of natural history in West Milos: Mountain tops,
isolated coasts, rare flora and fauna, migratory birds and in general a region of incomparable beauty, intact
from human destructive interventions.

Achivadolimni, the biggest natural wetland in the Cycladic islands, a main home for migratory birds, the
blackrobin, a rare migratory hawk, other kinds of birds such as Bitterns, Limoges, Marsh Harriers, Whiskered
Terns, Ospreys and Ortolans, the Mediterranean seal which lives in the wider region of Milos, the forest of
cypresses with the horizontal branches including perennial trees of a great value in aesthetics and flora, one of
the most rare species of our planet: the red viper Vipera Lebetina or Microvipera Schweizeri, the rare wild goat
species of Antimilos, as well as the rare flora in these regions make Milos a unique place.

The land and coastal zone in the west part of Milos belongs to the region network of NATURA 2000 of the
European Union. These regions thanks to their rare characteristics are armed as being “Places of Communal
Importance” and they are legislated as “Special Reservation Zones” so as to prevent the natural balance and the
biodiversity of their ecosystems, as well as to protect their rare flora and fauna.

Particularly, the wider region of Prophitis Ilias (code: GR4220020), Antimilos and the coastal zone of the
island’s west part (code: GR4220007), and also the island of Polygaios (code: GR4220006) are regions
protected under their accession into the NATURA network so that their natural heritage be preserved intact.

Beaches

Milos is famous its dentelated coastline. With more than 75 small and big beaches of crystal, deep blue
waters, multi-colored carved rocks and white-yellow coasts, it is certain that you will be impressed.

Due to the volcanic origin of its ground, Milos presents an impressive coastal morphology and diversity. There
are white-yellow beaches, bays with pebbles surrounded by stones, and white, red, yellow or black rocks. The
sea there has distinctive colors and depths and there are organized beaches for swimming or you can choose
more isolated and wild ones. It is certain that the island’s clear waters and its beaches of incomparable beauty
will offer you an unprecedented experience.

As far as access is concerned, the road network is very good in the north and in most of the south beaches. For
those located in the east and west side of the island, getting there is relatively difficult and in the bigger part of
the route there is earth-road. Moreover, there are beaches, (such as Kleftiko, Gerakas, Sykia and many more
that are not mentioned below) which you can access only by sea, taking part in the sea trips that set out
from Adamantas.

Closing, we suggest you choose the beach for your swim based not only on its natural beauty, but also based on
the wind’s direction. During the season of the yearly and the north winds it is best to choose beaches located
within the bay, or better yet in the south side of the island. On the contrary, when the wind is south, we
recommend you visit the beaches in the north side of the island.
Inside the gulf

Achivadolimni is the biggest beach of the island with a snow-white coast and navy blue shallow waters.

There, you will find an organized camping and the beach is accessible by bus, too. It was named after the lake
that exists in the opposite side which is full of clams.

Achivadolimni or Chivadolimni is divided into two beaches: the first is more quiet and isolated, whereas the
second is more frequent, organized and there are a beach-bar and restaurants. The beach is the ideal choice for
the lovers of surfing and kite-surfing.

Agios Dimitrios is located on the western edge of the gulf and its only accesible by boat. At Agios Dimitrios you
will meet bright blue water, a small beach and a beautifull chapel.

Empourio

Passing by the beach of Fatourena and Rivari you will find a picturesque harbor, an old commercial harbor and
a beach, a few rooms to let and a traditional tavern.

Fatourena
From Chivadolimni following the central road you get to Aghia Marina. Then, descending on the earth-road
towards the sea there is a quiet blue beach viewing the entire port. The “Rivari” lagoon is located nearby.

Lagkada

The nearest beach to the port of Adamantas with clear waters and many tamarisks for natural shade. The big
beach is yellow-white and it is organized.

Papikinou
This beach is quite big in size and it is located 1km east of Adamantas and it has been awarded with the blue
flag by the European Union since 1993.
It is full of tamarisks, parasols and deck-chairs, a restaurant and a volley court . It is the ideal beach for
children as the waters there deepen quite slowly, whereas simultaneously it is one of the beaches with the
most calm waves in the island.

North Milos

On the way to Pollonia on your left you will see a small detour leading to the small and quiet seaside settlement
of Aghios Konstantinos. The settlement’s beach is quite beautiful and quiet, on its right side among the rocks
two small caves are formed from where the waters come in and out and which are certainly worth exploring.

Alogomandra

A lane of sandy beach, encircled by high rocks, which is not visible from the road.

The ground is rocky on the sides and the green-blue waters are shallow. The beach formation resembles a yard
and that why is was named “Alogomandra” (mandra=yard).

Firopotamos

A seaside settlement with a small, yet organized beach, appropriate for swimming and fishing.
It is full of tamarisks and a creek surrounded by “syrmata”. At its edge, after the fishing houses, you will see the
deserted ladder used for loading and the Church of Saint Nikolaos.

Kapros

Small bay between white rocks with thin sand and bright blue sea.

Kapros is easily accesible by car and bus and visible from the main road that leads to Pollonia.

Mantrakia is another fishing village with “syrmata” and summer houses situated 5km northwest of
Plaka.

In the settlement there are rooms to let and a restaurant, whereas within a very short distance there is the
beach of Sykia, which is a small beach of almost 150m with dark gray pebbles and deep blue water.

Mitakas is a traditional village with ''syrmata'' and beach with sand.

Pachena

Being a vast beach with a view to Glaronisia, with a rich beach and some tamarisks, Pahena will excite you
thanks to its blue waters and the rocks rising from the water.Papafragas

Next to the ruins of the ancient city of Fylakopi, the three caves of Papafragas are located.
The cavern of Papafragas is a deep sea cave, where you can swim in green-blue waters between white-grey
rocks leading to the open sea. The beach is small in size, surrounded by the gigantic, light-colored rocks and in
order to get there you will have to go down a steep carving on the rock. In Byzantine times, it was used as a
hide-out for pirates and it was named after the last Frank Pope who used the beach to protect his boat.

Plathiena

A beach with fine white sand, with a view to Akradies, Arkoudes and Mantrakia.

Pollonia or Apollonia is a picturesque fish village of 300 inhabitants, built around a pretty creek with rich sand
and many almirikia.
Pollonia has a lot of taverns, restaurants and island cafes. It is also the connection point with the neighbouring
islands Kimolos and Glaronisia. Pollonia is easily accesible with car or bus.

In the Northeast part of the island, you will find the most photographed Aegean landscape: Sarakiniko. This
moonscape is unique.

The volcanic eroded Rocks penetrate into the emerald-colored sea creating small and big caves, whereas the
lack of green (vegetation), in combination with the rocks’ white color and the intense reflection of the light
create a landscape similar to the moon’s surface, thus making this experience unforgettable for all of its
visitors.

Sarakiniko, named after the Saracen pirates overlooks Sifnos and Kimolos and it is recommended you visit it
when the wind is not north.

It is worth noting that you should also visit Sarakinino at night, especially when the moon is full, as the snow-
white rocks of soft material reflect the light even the moonlight vividly, thus, creating an unforgettable
landscape.

Τourkothalassa
A beach with fine white sand and deep blue sea.

South Milos
Agia Kyriaki - A big and organized beach with deck-chairs, parasols, beach bars and a beach volley court.

Its cool waters, the multi-colored pebbles and its endless coarse sand will amaze you. Close to the beach there
are some rooms to let and a restaurant.

Agios Sostis - It is a continuation of the beach of Provatas, there is a restaurant and some rooms to let.

It is a small beach of shallow waters, whereas it was named after the chapel of Aghios Sostis (Saint Sostis)
situated a bit further away.

Fyriplaka - A quite big beach with imposing gigantic volcanic rocks, white-grey fine sand and white pebbles.
Its waters are blue-green, there is a beach bar, deck-chairs and parasols. Fyriplaka offers the possibility also to
those who wish to avoid the crowds of people to enjoy its splendor and beauty in the two most isolated beaches
(as a continuation of the first one which is organized) provided that they walk parallel to the sea and the v

Gerakas - Between Tsigrado and Aghia Kyriaki lies the beach of Gerontas, which is accessible only by boats
making sightseeing courses.

Gerontas - It is the longest south beach, accessible also by car.

The access is relatively difficult because of the earth-road and a ten-minute walk is required so as to get to the
beach which is nonetheless worth visiting. Gerontas is an amazing bay surrounded by white imposing rocks
and caves, dark sand and blue-green waters. You will be impressed by the rock in the shape of a bridge uniting
land and sea and also by its clear waters.

Kipos - Apart from its sandy beach Kipos has a harbor from which boats set out to go to Kleftiko, there are also
a restaurant and a few rooms to let.
Kleftiko or else “The Meteora Rocks of the Sea”, as it is usually called, constitutes a group of grey-white rocks of
strange shapes and formations, with caves and cavities created by the wind and the sea in the passing of the
centuries.

In order to enjoy its crystal blue green waters and its unique formations you will have to approach by boat or
by yacht. In old times Kleftiko was used as a refuge and a hide-out for pirates and thus it was named after
them.

Paliochori - 8 km from Adamantas, taking the central asphalted road after passing Zefyria, you will reach
the settlement of Paliohori easily by vehicle or public transportation. There are rooms to let, beach bars
and restaurants serving Greek dishes, fresh seafood, with a view to the vast Cretan sea.

The Beach of Paliohori is of almost 2 kilometers in total size and it is extremely popular. It consists of multi-
colored pebbles, coarse sand and fresh crystal clear deep waters. In fact, the beach is composed of three
beaches: the big organized one, the middle one and a small narrow one surrounded by rocks. In Paliohori you
will have the opportunity to see unique and imposing images, result of the volcanic activity and the geologic
vividness of the region. Apart from the multicolored rocks in red, pink, yellow and white-grey color, in Paliohori
hot springs gush out. The unbelievable diversity of the existing natural materials and colors will surely amaze
you.

Provatas - An ideal beach for families due to its vast yellow-red beach (thanks to the iron oxides) and the
very shallow waters, suitable for children.
It is organized with deck-chairs and parasols, there is a hotel, rooms to let and taverns. It is easily accessible
through the asphalted road (7km from Adamantas and with very good street signs), and there are also
frequent bus connections.

Tsigrado - Beach magnificently embraced by huge rocks, with white sand and emerald sea.

Access in this really exotic beach is by a relatively easy dirt road. To enjoy the real beauty though you will have
to go down from the mound through a faint steep path wich is covered by sand. The beach is not organised, but
you can supply yourself with what you need from the neighbouring beach of Fyriplaka.

East Milos
Rema, Agali, Kolympisionas, Kastanas, Tria Pigadia - These are small beaches with dark blue waters and nice
multi-colored pebbles.

Kastanas

All of them are worth visiting thanks to the particular color shades of their stones that seclude them and to
their crystal clear waters.

Sulfur Mines - In the small Paliorema bay, you can enjoy your swim in a beach with yellowish pebbles and
crystal clear waters, whereas you can experience a trip back in time thanks to the ruins of the old mines’
installations used for the mining of sulphur which were in function until 1956.
The beach is one of the island’s geologic sights and there you can observe wagons on their rails, old rusty tools
and unused spare parts in the materials storehouse, as you enjoy your swim in clear waters in a wild
mysterious landscape.

Voudia - A big beach with fine pebbles which is nonetheless inaccessible due to the industrial installations of
the mining company that functions in the area.

West Milos
Ag. Ioannis - The beach was named after the monastery of Saint Ioannis the Siderianos.

In order to find this white-yellow beach separated into three parts that are interconnected with paths, you will
have to cross an earth-road of approximately 12 km. The first one is accessible by vehicle, whereas to get to the
other two you, will have to walk far enough and also to climb down some rocks.

Agkathia - A quite inaccessible beach (because of the earth-road that you will have to cross to get there), which
is nonetheless worth visiting thanks to its shallow blue waters, its lee bay and its big beach.
To get there, cross the monastery of Saint Marina and turn right at the second crossroads that you find

Amoudaraki - A pretty beach with rich yellow sand, next to Triades.

In order to get there you pass by Aghia Marina, you pass by the monastery of Saint Ioannis the Siderianos, and
turning right you proceed on the earth-road.

Sykia - A cave of unique natural beauty, accessible only from sea.

The cave of Sykia does not have a roof, as a result the sunbeams come into the cave lighting up its emerald
colored waters and creating a visual feast of colors and shine.

Triades - Three sandy isolated beaches with shallow blue waters, the one nest to the other.
The landscape is pastoral, with yellow sand and surrounded by rocks. The route is tiring, but their eerie beauty
will make it up for you.

Gastronomy

The most representative kinds of the Melian cuisine are the “pitarakia” (small pies) - filled with peppered dry
cheese or cream-cheese with mint,- the sweet-smelling “karpouzopita”- a traditional sweet pie made of water-
melon and of course the “glyko koufeto” made of a sweet pumpkin’s kernel with honey and almonds.

The pastry ‘’Glyko koufeto” is served at weddings and engagements by the bride’s mother. The honey
symbolizes the sweet life the couple is to live, whereas the almonds stand for the fruits of fertility.

In the numerous restaurants, taverns, grill-houses and eating-houses of the island, you have plenty of choices:
You can taste fresh fish and dishes from the international cuisine. We strongly suggest you try the delicious
“astakomakaronada”- lobster spaghetti, grilled octopus or octopus cooked in wine, fresh fish, “ladenia” (tasty
pie with oil, tomatoes and onions), as well as dishes made of local meat kinds, such as braized rooster or
rooster cooked in wine , lamp baked in the oven with sauce and many other dishes.

We present you some of the most popular traditional recipes of Milos.

Pitarakia (fried cheese pies)

For the mixture:

• ½ kg of flour
• 1 ½ cup of lukewarm water
• 2 spoonfuls of olive oil
• The juice of half a lemon
• Salt

For the filling:

• Dry Melian cheese

• 1 big dry grated onion
• Pepper
• Frying oil

Preparation:

Put the salt into a pan, make a pile and in the middle make room for the oil, the lemon juice and the salt
(to be added).

Start moulding the dough till it becomes soft and of a uniform shape. As soon as the yeast “rests”, make
a thin pastry-sheet and cut it into small round pieces using a glass. On each piece add a spoonful of the
mixture and then close it in the shape of a half-moon, marking it all around using the edge of a fork.
Then, warm up the oil in the frying-pan and let them simmer in low temperature.

Glyko Koufeto - Koufeto Pastry

Paste of a round white pumpkin (a small one)

The quantities of the rest of the ingredients depend on how much paste we get from the round white
pumpkin (meaning depending on how many glasses of paste we have).

For each glass of pumpkin paste we need:

• 1 glass of sugar
• 1 glass of honey
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 3 vanillas
• 1 kg or even more (if we want) of hot almonds which are cut in halves.

Preparation:

Peel the pumpkin, remove its external peel and its seeds. Cut the kernel into pieces, scrape it in the
scraper and squeeze its paste very well.

Put all the ingredients together into a pot and then add the sugar separately and let everything boil in
low temperature stirring all the time until the pumpkin paste gets “blisters”. Turn the heat down and
let the sweet thicken, stirring all the time. When the mixture is able to stand on a dessertspoon then,
you will be sure it is ready. Once it cools down, put it into a jar.

Alternative Recipe for “Glyko-Koufeto” Koufeto- Pastry

Ingredients:

• 1kg of white pumpkin (peeled off)

• ½ kg of sugar
• ½ (glass) of honey
• 1 cup of whitened almonds, cut into half
• ½ cup of water
• The juice of one lemon

Preparation:

Cut the pumpkin into thin slices, just like the French fries and let it into a lime-water for 5 minutes.
Then, rinse it off very well and strain it.

Put the water, the sugar and the honey into a pot. When the mixture starts boiling, add the pumpkin and
let it boil in high temperature until the syrup thickens, skimming it off as many times as needed.

Add the almonds which you have cut in half, and add the lemon juice. Let the syrup thicken. When the
sweet gets cold, put it into a jar.

Garlic-lasagna in red sauce

Ingredients:

• ½ kilo of lasagna or tagliatelles, a bit of salt and oil

• For the garlic sauce:
• 3 medium sized potatoes
• 1 cup of olive oil
• 2 spoonfuls of vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 cup of milk
• 2 cloves of garlic, a bit of salt, pepper
 • For the red sauce:
• 4 medium sized tomatoes which are ripe and grated
• 2 spoonfuls of sun-dried tomato paste
• Salt, pepper, mint (if we wish), a bit of cinnamon, 2 bay leaves

Preparation:

Boil the lasagnas into plenty of salty water and add some oil so that they do not stick together. At the
same time, in another pot, boil the potatoes. Once they get cold, peel them off and mash them adding the
garlic; put the paste into the pot and let it boil adding the milk, the vinegar and the oil. Add also the salt
and pepper and turn the heat off. In a pot add some oil, burn the paste for a few minutes and then mix
all the ingredients together. Serve the lasagnas with the garlic sauce. On top, add the sauce. The
different tastes of these 2 sauces turns a simple dish into an exquisite one. Dredge with Melian oil-
cheese.

Watermelon pie

Ingredients:

• Half of a water-melon (approximately 5-6 kilos)

• 2-3 spoonfuls of olive oil, sesame, cinnamon, honey (approximately 200ml)
• Flour, 2 spoonfuls of sugar

Preparation:

Cut the water-melon into small pieces and peel of the seeds. Put it into a strainer and squeeze with the
hands so as to get rid of the liquids as much as possible, but be careful not to smash it. Let the water
melon drain out in the strainer for about 1 hour. Then, shape it adding 2 spoonfuls of olive oil and 6-7
spoonfuls of flour. Add the sugar and most of the honey. (These are relative quantities, mind the oil &
flour quantities. First you should add them slowly and carefully so that you don’t add too much). Ideally,
the mixture should not be very thick and in no case should it be watery. Then, put the mixture into a
small baking pan you have already oiled. (Attention: the mixture should not be over 2-2,5
centimeters in height. Cover it with sesame and bake it for around 40-40 minutes. Once it is baked and
it is still hot, pour the rest of the honey on and let it absorb it.

Melian Pumpkin-cheese Pie

Dough ingredients:

8-9 pastry-sheets (3 glasses of flour, 1 glass of water, 1 spoonful of vinegar, 1 glass of oil and salt) or
alternatively use ready-made pastry-sheets you have already bought .

Filling ingredients:

• 2 kg of Melian pumpkin
• 6 eggs
• 1 kg of grated Melian cheese or feta cheese
• 1 small glass of milk
• 2-3 spoonfuls of goat butter
• Salt, pepper

Preparation:

In a pan squeeze the pumpkin and let it get strained and . Then shape the pastry-sheets unless if you
use the ready-made ones. Scramble the eggs and mix the pumpkin paste with the cheese into a pan and
add some salt and pepper. Butter the baking pan and put 2-3 pastry-sheets in, so that 15 centimeters
fall out of the baking pan. Then spread half of the filling and then put again 2-3 pastry-sheets in, next
spread the rest of the filling on top and keep a tiny quantity for the ending. Turn the pastry-sheets
inside using a kitchen-brush and put 2-3 pastry-sheets somehow crumpled. On top, add the rest of the
filling, the milk and some butter. Bake it for around one hour at 150C.
Baked Pork in Melian paste

Ingredients:

• 1,5 kg of sliced pork shoulder-blade

• 2 sliced onions
• 4 cloves of fresh garlic, finely chopped
• 200gr of Melian paste
• 2 big tomatoes, grated in the grater
• 200gr of honey
• 200gr of olive oil
• 3 spoonfuls of pork fat (if you wish)
• ½ cup of vinegar
• 1 tea cup of red wine
• 1 small spoonful of nutmeg
• 2 small spoonfuls of black pepper
• 1 small spoonful of red pepper (if you wish)
• 2 small spoonfuls of thyme
• 1 kg of potatoes sliced as quinces

Preparation:

In a pan put the pork and the potatoes and add all the rest of the ingredients, mixing very well until the
meat gets nicely marinated. Let the meat in the piquant sauce for 2-3 hours and then put it into a baking
pan adding water so that the meat is half-covered, and bake it for 2,5 hours at 200 C.

Local products

In case you do not try these foods, you should definitely buy some of it before you leave Milos...

-jars of traditional ‘’glyko koufeto’’, made of pumpkin kernel, honey and almonds, local cheeses, such as dry-
cheese, sour cream-cheese, and touloumotyri, made with artistry, in the traditional manner.

-Melian thyme honey

-delicious sauce made of Melian tomatoes

- capari

- home made barley and wheat rolls (the barley rolls were made of the new wheat crop, initially they would
dunk them into sea water and then they would add tomatoes to them).

Local Products at:

Adamantas: Glykofilema (Bambouni Anezina), 22870-21730

Paradosiaka edesmata(Bihos Panagiotis), 22870-23125

Pollonia: I kibotos ton geyseon (Lillis Nikolaos), 22870-41121/6936954060

Plaka: Paradosiaka edesmata (Bihos Panagiotis), 22870- 24016

Local bus
The city busses cover certain areas of Milos and in summertime their itineraries are quite frequent. You can buy
your ticket on the bus, the ticket’s price varies depending on your destination.

Routes:
Adamantas – Triovassalos – Plaka – Τripiti
Adamantas – Pahaina – Fylakopi – Pollonia
Adamantas – Zefyria- Palaiohori
Adamantas – Αchivadolimni – Probatas
Adamantas- Sarakiniko

Museums

Archaelogical Museum

The Archaeological Museum of Milos is situated in Plaka and it is housed in a beautiful, neoclassic building by
Ernst Ziller.

At the museum the following wonderful collections are exhibited:

• A prehistoric collection from Fylakopi

• A collection of sculptures and bas-reliefs
• An obsidian collection
• A collection of inscriptions

A true copy of Aphrodite de Milo rises in the Museum Entrance (Room A), which was made in the workshop of
the Louvre Museum. In the left side of the room you can see glass-shown cases with blades, scales and obsidian
exfoliates from Fylakopi, Nyhia and Demenegaki. Moreover, in the same room, you can see a large burial jar
dated from the 6th century BC.

In the left room (Room B) you can see prehistoric objects dated from the 5th millennium till the end of the
2nd millennium BC. There, you can see glass-shown cases with archaeological findings from ancient Fylakopi,
many pots with lilies painted on them , statuettes ,a tufa altar from Fylakopi’s sanctuary, a small collection of
marble early Cycladic statuettes and the famous “Kyra of Fylakopi”.

In the small room behind the entrance (Room C) you can admire geometric, archaic, classic, Hellenistic and
Roman works, plenty of coins, tools and handy objects.

Closing, reaching the room on the right of the entrance (Room D’), you will see findings from the ancient town
of Klima, plenty of sculptures dated form the Hellenistic and Roman period (a Hermaic statue of Marius
Trofimos, a tomb bas-relief of a young man with his servant etc.), marble donations and tables of the archaic
Melian alphabet (Thanks to the peak the Melians had reached in the historic period, they had developed their
own “Melian alphabet” composed of 21 letters).

Additional Info
Working Hours:8:00 – 15:00, except for Monday
Entrance Fee:3€ (2€ for visitors over 65 years old, free for students and children under 10 years old)

Folk Museum

The Folklore & History Museum of Milos is located behind the church of Panaghia Korfiatissa in Plaka.

The museum was established in 1967 by the “Union of the Melians in Athens” and there you can learn a lot of
things about the life of the Melians after the 17th century (mostly from 1850 up to 1930, which was a peak
period for the Melian society).

A visiting to this museum takes back into another time period, as you will see how a city Melian household of
the 19th century was like. The museum is not an exact representation of a certain type of a Melian household,
but starting from the heterogeneous objects, the aspects of life of the inhabitants in that time period are
presented: their dealings inside and outside the house, their influences from other regions, their nutritional and
dress preferences, their ways of entertainment, the organizing of space and time and the exploitation of the
local resources.
This two-storeyed museum is made of a living-room and the unique exhibits located in it, the work place where
the loom is found, the house’s kitchen room, the bedroom, the cellar (used also for the storage of rural
products), and the top-floor which constitutes a historic record. In all these rooms you can also admire
furniture, textiles, needlework, clothing of that period, house ware, decorative objects, everyday objects and old
photographs.

Additional Info
Manager:Tzina Grigoriou
Working Hours:Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00 - 14:00, Monday: Closed
Entrance Fee:3€, Children and Students 1.5€

Mineral Museum

The Mineral Museum of Milos, an urban non-profitable company, was made by S&B Industrial Minerals S.A. in
1998 with the aim to honor and promote the mineral history as well as the geologic and natural heritage of
Milos.

Τηλ. Επικοιν.:22870

At the ground-floor room the social, financial and technologic dimension of Milos’s mineral history and
tradition is presented. The exhibition on the ground floor is dedicated to the island’s natural and geologic
wealth, where the minerals that used to be mined on the island since the Neolithic age are presented all the way
to the present day; special emphasis is given on their usage in our everyday life. Complementary, films are
projected dealing with the mining and the procedure of the minerals’ production, whereas in the projection
room visitors can “travel” back to older periods through the descriptions of the old miners.

The Museum realizes organized geologic walks, whereas in its premises educational programs take place and
pedagogic and recreational activities are organized in cooperation with skilled educational carriers and
museum-educators. In its 12 years of operation, the Museum has been visited by more than 135,000 people
from Greece and abroad, whereas it has become a favorite destination of educational tourism.

Additional Info
Working Hours:1 June - 30 September: 9:00 - 14:00 & 17:00 - 20:30 everyday, Octomber, April & May: 9:30 -
14:00 & 17:30 - 20:30, everyday 1 November - 31 March: Saturday 9:00 - 14:00, Sunday to Friday Requires
prior phone communication
Entrance Fee:3€ ( 2€ for people over 65y old, Free for children under 10y old and students

Church Museum

Very close to Adamantas port, the church of The Holy Trinity is located, where the Church Museum is housed.

This church, which is over a thousand years old, is characterized as “crossed-shaped three-aisled basilica with
troulokamara (arched-dome)”, since it is made of three aisles on which the dome rises vertically having the
shape as the temple. This type of church is very rare (there is only one more such church, in Peloponnesus, in
Levidi, Arcadia) and it is an interested architectural monument.

Initially it was made so as to serve as a monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary of Theofani, but in 1839 it was
purchased by Cretan refugees and they turned it into their village’s church. The edges and the arches of its bell-
tower are influenced by the gothic patterns, whereas the lintels and the pilasters are decorated with traditional
sculptures and religious patterns. In the yard, at the church’s entrance, you will see two mosaics, creations of
the local artist Giagos Kavroudakis. These two colorful mosaics are dated from 1937; one of them depicts a
dragon in the shape of Milos, whereas the other depicts the battle of the good against the evil.

Ever since 2000 the Church Museum of Milos has been housed in the church of The Holy Trinity, a museum
where you are given the chance to admire a great part of the Melian artistic tradition and heritage as well as of
the Melian hagiographic tradition. More specifically, you can see icons dated from the 14th century (such as a
rare deposition from the cross), works of the Cretan school, works by Emmanuel Skordilis and Antonios
Skordilis and Cretan painters, epitaphs and woodcut lecterns, 17th century iconostases, the bishop’s throne, the
icon screens, silver chalices, incensories, golden offerings, rings, necklaces, earrings and other exhibits of
important artistic value.

Additional Info
Manager:Grigoris Mpelivanakis
Working Hours:Every day: 09:15 - 13:15 & 18:15 - 22:15
Entrance Fee:Free

Naval Museum

The Museum opened up in September 2008 and it is housed over Adamantas harbor, in the building of the
island’s old Community.

It was realized by the efforts of the doctor Petros Armenis in order to gather plenty of exhibits relating to the
naval activity in Milos. The exhibits go back to the prehistoric age, with tools made of obsidian, then we move
historically to the battle of Salamis and finally we reach the modern times.

In the Naval Museum you are given the chance to admire also rare maps, made by special cartographers as well
as the wooden boat “Irene”.

Additional Info
Working Hours:09:00 - 14:00

Archaelogical Sights

The Melian history is extremely rich, starting from the Neolithic Age (7.000BC) in the prehistoric city of
Fylakopi. The visitors of Milos can admire the island’s extremely rich history based on the monuments that
have been preserved and which are reminiscent of the island’s rich past.

Ancient Roman Theatre

The ancient Roman Theatre was originally constructed by the inhabitants of the ancient city of Klima, possibly
during the Hellenistic Age (3rd century BC).

However, after the destruction of the city by the Athenians in Roman times, above the preserved foundations of
the classic theater, a bigger one was built made of snow-white Parian marble and remarkable bas-reliefs, which
it is estimated that it had a seating capacity of 7000 spectators. This is also the shape of the theater you see
nowadays.

From the theatre seven marble tiers, six rows of seats, the auditorium , the orchestra, the stage floor and a lot of
architecturally elaborate parts are preserved. The excavations began in 1989, and the order for the theatre’s
first cleaning was given by Ludwig II, Othon’s father, at L. Ross’s instigation, who along with Othon was the first
one to visit the ancient theater in modern times.

Built on prominent spot, on the hillside, the theatre overlooks the port, the view from there is spectacular and
its acoustics are very good. So, quite often theatrical performances and music happenings take place there, as in
its present shape the theater has a seating capacity of 700 spectators.

Ancient town of Klima

In the settlement of Klima you will find the ruins of the old city of Klima which used to be the island’s first port.

After the decline and the destruction of Fylakopi, the Dorians built the second biggest city in the island
(1100BC-800BC) extending from the south part of Trypiti to the region of the present Klima town.

Today, you can visit the settlement’s two acropolis: the hill of Prophitis Ilias and Pyrgaki- you can see parts of
the market-place walls, parts of a temple dated from the Hellenistic and Roman period, parts of the ancient
theatre, as well as the exact spot where the statue of Aphrodite of Milos was discovered. Descend till the end of
Trypiti road towards the Catacombs, park your car and walk on the path. Initially, you will see the ancient city
walls and a bit further away in a area where the gymnasium was supposedly standing, you will find the spot
where in 1820 a local farmer discovered the famous statue of the goddess Aphrodite (dated from 120BC). Keep
walking on the earth-road and you will get to the ancient Roman theatre.

Prehistoric Settlement of Fylakopi

On the way to Pollonia, on your left, you will see findings from the ancient city of Fylakopi, which used to be one
of the most important settlements of the Cycladic civilization and the most significant Aegean city in prehistoric
times.

In Fylakopi you can see 2 millennium year old remnants. There are habitation traces from the beginning of the
Early Bronze Age (around 3000BC) until the end of the Late age (1100BC). Built on the island’s north part, so as
to provide the possibility for surveillance to a big part of the sea, Fylakopi developed into a significant
commercial and cultural center. Because of the trading of the obsidian precious stone, it developed rapidly, it
became a strong city with Cyclopean walls against the invaders. It was destroyed and it was rebuilt three times.

The settlement’s habitation had begun already from 3000BC., and the city was abandoned in 1100BC, having
lasted three historic periods. In pre-residential age (3200BC-2300BC), the construction of houses commenced.
In the 1st historic age (2300-2000BC), the settlement was of around 200meters (considered large, based on the
facts of those times in the Aegean area), there was no organized town planning disposition, but it had a
relatively organized cemetery. Simultaneously, in that time period the stone usage was discovered and the
obsidian exports increased significantly, hence, a total commercial flourishing took place in Milos. In the
2nd period (2000BC-1600BC) walls were built for protection against possible invasions, the tombs were already
located outside the city walls, whereas the houses were situated in a terraced disposition on the hill. In that
period, the ceramic art was specially developed presenting clear Minoan influences and the commercial
relations of the Melians were further developed in various areas in Greece and mainly in Crete. That period
ended with the destruction of Fylakopi, possibly by fire set by invaders, and the city’s 3 rd historic period
(1600BC-1110BC) began with the building of the third settlement. In that last period Fylakopi had an
organized, complex, town planning, a fortification with high Cyclopean walls of over 6metres in width and
bigger houses, some of which were two-storeyed. At the beginning of this period, the Minoan civilization
influence was intense (parts of a Minoan Linear A table were discovered), but gradually elements of the
Mycenaean culture penetrated and in the end they prevailed. In around 1400 a palace according to the
Mycenaean architecture was built with a lot of rooms and a two-room sanctuary. Moreover, greats works of
sculpture and ceramic art were made, the most important of which was the statue of “Kyra of Fylakopi”. (It is in
exhibition in the Archaeological Museum of Milos). Since 1200BC in the Aegean area, there had been
reorganizations, well-known commercial routes were abandoned, whereas both the Minoan and the
Mycenaean civilization were in decline. In that period, the city of Fylakopi stopped being a commercial center
and began to decline, whereas the ancient city of Klima became the commercial center where all the island’s
activities took place.

Today, the largest part of the city lies under the surface of the sea, but it is worth visiting it so as to admire the
remnants of the imposing Cyclopean walls of the settlement (made of volcanic stones), the Sanctuary, and the
settlement’s Palace. Until the present day, numerous findings are preserved suggesting the activities of the
settlement’s inhabitants and the frequent contact network, mostly with the rest of the Cycladic islands and
Crete, whereas visiting the Archaeological Museum you can see remarkable items of ceramic art from the city of
Fylakopi, such as earthen pots, stone, earthen and bronze statuettes, a Linear A table, diverse handy objects and
the famous statue of “Kyra of Fylakopi”.

Additional Info
Working Hours:8:30 - 15:00, every day
Entrance Fee: Free

Religious Sites
The Holy Synod proclaimed Milos a sacred island, because of its early Christian Catacombs. Additionally, it is
one of the few islands that have a Church Museum, as well as more than 140 churches and chapels.

We recommend you visit the churches in all the villages, as in each one of them great works of art are kept,
icons and relics of past centuries and most of them are of a special architectural and artistic interest.
The churches of Milos are of plain and unadorned architecture, they are snow-white and are usually located in
the village center or on rocks overlooking the sea.

Early Christian Catacombs

The catacombs are situated near Trypiti village, in caves of 150meters above the surface of the sea.

In 2009, the Holy Synod proclaimed Milos a sacred island, because the Catacombs constitute the most ancient
monument of Christianity. It was the first gathering place of the first Christians and they were used as a
municipal cemetery for the first time in the end of the 2ndcentury BC. The Catacombs of Milos are of a unique
size in the entire of Greece and one of the most famous and remarkable Christian world monuments next to the
catacombs of Rome and of the Holy Land.

This labyrinthine complex is composed of three big-initially separate-subterranean colonnades (A,B,C) carved
in the porous volcanic stone, five corridors and one rectangular burial chamber in the form of cubicula in the
Roman Catacombs. Each Catacomb is of a different width (1-5meters) and a different height (1,60-2,50meters).
Its total length is 185metres and today 126 “arkosolia” (carved arched tombs) are preserved in the inner sides
of the colonnades. The “arkosolia” were decorated with colors (red fascia on the crown and dark blue color on
the spandrel’s surface), but today only scare traces of their colorful decor are preserved.

The Catacombs’ form today is due to some 20th century interventions, such as the entrance to the burial
chamber B and the passages uniting the three initially separate catacombs. Today you are allowed to visit only
the colonnade B’, the Catacomb of the “Elders” as it is called, and to go around it on a wooden platform. In the
left side of this catacomb, the only two-storeyed tomb of the Catacombs is preserved , as well as pieces of the
most significant inscription with red capital letters written within a rectangular frame. In the center there is a
rock, where most possibly one of the first bishops of the Melian Christian community had been buried and the
first Christians used it as an Altar in their liturgies.

From the Catacombs that are non-open to visitors, Catacomb A (west from today’s central colonnade) is of a big
width, it has a spacious burial chamber and it is characteristic for the double family tombs carved in its inner
sides, whereas Catacomb B (east from today’s central colonnade) is only partially preserved and it is worth
having a look at the traces of frescos in it (one of the few preserved early Christian frescos where branches with
flowers and birds are depicted).

Working Hours:Tuesday - Saturday 8:30 - 18:30 , Sunday 8:30 - 15:00 , Monday Closed

The churches of Milos Island

ADAMANTAS

• Assumption of Virgin Mary or Aghios Haralampos

This church is located behind Adamantas port, on the village’s highest point. It was built by Cretan refugees in
1870 and it was named after the church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary of Portaitissa (old cathedral of
the island) and the church next to it, Saint Haralampos. These two churches were situated in the island’s old
capital, Zefyria, from where the woodcut icon screen and the old icons of this magnificent church were
transferred.

The church’s architecture is that of a three-aisled arched with a dome church and its dome is built on the semi-
cylindrical vault of the middle aisle. In the churchyard you can admire a mosaic by Ioannis Kavroudakis, made
of Melian pebbles, representing an eagle flying eastwards. On its lower part, between the dolphins, there is the
emblem of the community of Adamantas .

In the church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary or church of Saint Haralampos (the locals call it “Saint
Haralampos church”), you will see icons of Cretan-byzantine art from the destroyed churches of Zefyria, the
woodcut icon screen and the precious icon of the Virgin Mary, covered with sheets of silver.
 • Saint Nikolaos-Adamantas

Southwest of The Holy Trinity church (Church Museum) stands the Catholic church of Saint Nikolaos. It was
built in 1827 by the French vice-consul Louis Brest and on its floor there are three tombs covered with marble
tables with inscriptions in English, French and Latin.

PLAKA

• Birth of the Virgin Mary of Panaghia Korfiatissa

In the west side of Plaka, on craggy rocks, in 1810 the church of Panaghia Korfiatissa was built. The location is
known as “Halara”, and the space in front of the church is known as “Marmara”, due to the fact that the
churchyard is paved with marble tombstones from the old city.

Visiting the church dedicated to the Birth of the Virgin Mary or Panaghia Korfiatissa, apart from the wonderful
view of the sea and the spectacular sunset, you can see relics from the island’s old deserted churches, Cretan-
Byzantine icons from the churches of Zefyria, holy relics kept in small silver boxes, the woodcut gold-plated
icon screen, as well as the gold-plated epitaph dated from 1600 from the church of Panaghia Skiniotissa, which
was brought from Smyrna.

• Panaghia ton Rodon

In the north side of the church of Panaghia Korfiatissa ( just a back-street further down) you will find the
second Catholic church of the island: the church of Panaghia ton Rodon or Rozaria.

This small Catholic church was built in 1823 by the French vice-consul Louis Brest (as it is written in the
inscription), and inside the church Brest himself was buried and his spouse was buried in the yard. It is worth
mentioning that the church’s lintel is decorated with the coat of arms of the French king Ludwig XVI .

• Ypapanti of Christ or Panaghia Thalassitra

The church of Ypapanti of Christ or Panaghia Thalassitra is the patron saint of sailors and it is the most multi-
photographed church of the island. It is located in one of the island’s nicest spots and you will see it on your
way up to the Castle. This church used to be a chapel in 1739 which was demolished in 1839 so that this
magnificent bigger church would be built instead, incorporating also as a south aisle the neighboring Frankish
Church dedicated to the Virgin Mary (Panaghia Eleousa).

In the church of Panaghia Thalassitra, you can see works of the 17th century made in the famous hagiographic
workshop of the Skordilides, and specifically the important icons of Saint Eleftherios, the Virgin Mary and Jesus
Christ, painted by Emmanuel Skordilis. Also, you can admire the woodcut icon screen with its amazing cross,
whereas in the lintel of the church’s west gate you can see the coat of arms of Krispi, who was the duke of
Naxos.

• Messa Panaghia or Panaghia Skiniotissa

On the top of the Castle, there is the small arched church of Panaghia Skiniotissa or Messa Panaghia. Today, the
church building is preserved in a very good condition, as it is a postwar building. The older chapel was blown
up during the German occupation so that an anti-aircraft cantilever would be built in its place and thus the
church was rebuilt after 1944.

It is said that the church was named “Skiniotissa” after the icon of the Virgin Mary (Panaghia) that was found on
a lentisk (skino in Greek), on the top of the Castle.

PLAKES

• Saint Haralampos
On the foot of Plaka, in the village called Plaka, stands the fourth biggest church of the island, the church of Saint
Haralampos. It was built in 1853 (in the place of an old chapel), thanks to the efforts and the donations of the
few villagers.

In the church you can see modern frescos (the fresco of Pantocrator in the dome, the fresco of Saint
Haralampos in the left side and in the opposite side the fresco of Saint Vlasios) and many interesting icons such
as the one of the Archangel Michael, of Jesus Christ, of Saint John the Baptist, of the Lady of the Angels, of Saint
Jacob, of Saint Catherine and of the Virgin Mary of Akradiotissa, which the oldest icon of the village. This is an
icon of a great value and it has been transferred from the ruined monastery that existed in Mikri Akradia.

The great hagiographer Fotis Kontoglou said about the icon of Panaghia Akradiotissa: “It is painted on a oblong
board, hollow like a skiff, as in the most ancient icons. The head of the Virgin Mary is standing up, just like in the
other old icons of “Panaghia Odigitria” (i.e. the Virgin Mary leading us, the Leader), and the head of our Lord
Jesus Christ is seen from the side. The eyes, the nose, the mouth are indicated with siena a bit darker than
proplasmos. The soft light is put with loose and fleeting strokes of brush, just like in ancient letters, whereas in
the newest icons the lightened parts have been worked with straight lines, the one next to the other, painted
carefully. The proplasmos is red siena , the look of the Virgin Mary seems old and unsmiling, totally different
from the usual type of “Panaghia Odigitria”.

TRIOVASALOS

• Saint Spyridonas (Aghios Spyridonas)

The church of Saint Spyridonas is the central church of the village Triovasalos and it is united with the church
of Saint Marina. The church of Saint Spyridonas is very interesting as it is of a special architecture with four big
arches. In it you will see icons from the ruined churches of the old Zefyria city, as well as the icon “The King of
Kings” painted by the well-known hagiographer Skordilis.

When you visit the church of Saint Spyridonas or the church of Saint George on Easter Sunday, you can watch
the ‘’burning of Judas”, a custom dated from the early Christian times and which is revived until the present
day. This custom is combined also with the custom of “baroutiou-gun powder” as the young people of the two
villages, of Triovasalos and Pera Triovasalos, throw dynamites in a space between the two churches, each one
contesting for the title of the winner. The winner is the village that will make most of the noise and that will
blow up most of the dynamite.

• Cemetery of the upper villages

In Triovasalos, on the road leading to Plaka, you will see a cemetery of a special architecture; it is the cemetery
of the upper villages: of Plaka, Plakon, Trivasalos, Pera Triovasalos and Trypiti. This cemetery is of a very
original architecture, as its tombs are shaped like a small church.

PERA TRIOVASALOS

• Saint George

Saint George’s church is the central church of the village of Pera Triovasalos. If you visit it, it is worth observing
the marble plate overlooking the entrance of the church depicting Saint George riding his horse, its marble icon
screen and the mosaic by the folklore artist Petros Rapanakis which is in the church yard.

When you visit the church of Saint Spyridonas or the church of Saint George on Easter Sunday, you can watch
the ‘’burning of Judas”, a custom dated from the early Christian times and which is revived until the present
day. This custom is combined also with the custom of “baroutiou-gun powder” as the young people of the two
villages, of Triovasalos and Pera Triovasalos, throw dynamites in a space between the two churches, each one
contesting for the title of the winner. The winner is the village that will make most of the noise and that will
blow up most of the dynamite.

TRYPITI

• Saint Nikolaos
In the centre of Trypiti village stands the magnificent church of Saint Nikolaos. In was built in 1888 in the spot
of another smaller church, based on the designs of Saint Nikolaos church in Syros.

The decor of this church is rich and remarkable. You can see its marble icon screen (by the marble sculptor G.
Kaparias from Tinos), lovely woodcuts, the old 17th century iconostasis, an iconostasis and a bishop’s throne by
G. I. Laoutaris and an pulpit by Emmanuel Markantonis from Milos. Also, you can admire the great icons by
Emmanuel Skordilis and by other artists of the Cretan School, which were brought from Palea Hora (the
island’s medieval capital).

Also, it is worth mentioning that this church presents an architectural paradox, since due to lack of sufficient
space, its length is smaller than its width.

KLIMATOVOUNI

• Panaghia Tourliani

In Klimatovouni (a hill over Klima), you will see the church of Panaghia Tourliani. Apart from the extremely old
church icons, it is worth visiting it because of its magic view of the upper villages in the island and also of the
entrance to Adamantas bay. You can rest in its hospitable yard at the time of the sunset so as to enjoy its
breathtaking colors.

KLIMA

Prophitis Ilias

The chapel of Prophitis Ilias (Prophet Elias) stands on the hilltop of Klima. It is built on the ruins of an ancient
temple, there are still remnants of columns and of different marble parts. From there the view is excellent and
picturesque. In the icon screen of the church, you can see many interesting icons.

• Panaghia Faneromeni

Descending the road from Trypiti to the Catacombs, on your right hand you will see the chapel of Panaghia
Faneromeni, in a wooded place full of cypresses. It is one of the most beautiful churches of the island, inside
which there are two tombs with arches, whereas in its sanctuary you can see remnants of one of the most
beautiful Melian churches, within which there are two tombs with arches and in its alter there are traces of
frescos.

ZEFYRIA

• Panaghia Portiani & Saint Haralampos

In the center of Zefyria, you will see the church of Panaghia Portaitissa or Portiani, an old Melian cathedral. The
church of Panghia Portiani, united with the church of Saint Haralampos is the only preserved church in the Old
Hora of Zefyria.

The name “Portiani” possibly comes from the castle’s gate that existed near the church. The destruction of the
city from an earthquake in the 18th century (during the Turkish occupation) signaled also the abandonment of
the church. So, in 1864 the icon of Panaghia Portiani, other icons and parts of its inner rich decor were placed in
the new church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (or Saint Haralampos church) in Adamantas.

The Sacred church of Panaghia Portiani (Panaghia=the Virgin Mary) is part of the 2nd Ephorate of Byzantine
Antiquities of the Ministry of Culture and it is protected as preservable monument. In it you can see remarkable
old frescos and amazing relics.

HALAKAS

• Aghia Marina (Saint Marina)

On the way to Halakas, just before you get to the beach of Fatourena, you will reach the monastery of Saint
Marina. This monastery was in operation from around 1650 to 1830 and it is one of the 13 monasteries the
French traveler Tournieyef visited while it was still in operation and which he mentions with admiration in his
travel accounts. (Tournieyef visited Milos in 1700).

• Saint John the Theologian or Siderianos (Meaning made of iron)

The monastery of Saint John the Siderianos (Aghios Ioannis Siderianos) is located in the southwest side of the
island, in Halakas. The date of its establishment and operation remains unknown even though it is mentioned in
documents since 1582. Its architecture is that of a basilica with dome and this church is quite spacious, very
well preserved and it is surrounded by many cells of different dimensions for the housing of its pilgrims. Saint
John’s icon which is inside the church, is a very old one and it is said to have been painted by the Evangelist
Luke.

This monastery was named after one of Saint John’s miracles. According to folklore tradition on the feast of
Saint John, pirates showed up and the people trying to save themselves from their raids, were locked into the
church and there praying intensely full of with tears to Saint John, they asked him to secure the door with iron
so that the pirates would not enter. Their prayers were answered and finally the pirates did not manage to
open the church door. Then, a furious pirate climbed up on the church’s dome, aimed at the pilgrims with his
gun and tried to shoot them. Then, Saint John caused the paralysis of the pirate’s hand and the gun fell into the
church, where it is kept till the present day along with other religious objects.

The miracles performed by Saint John do not end there. In the Second World War, an English war ship threw
an bombshell to a German fort in the region, which lodged in the church wall. The bombshell did not explode
and it can also be seen today inside the church.

Visit this church and later on enjoy your swim on the magnificent beach of the like sands. Also, should you visit
Milos around the 25th of September, which it the feast of Saint John the Siderianos, do not forget to participate
in the great festival in honor of Saint John Siderianos which lasts many days.

• Prophitis Ilias

On the highest spot of the island, 750 meters above the surface of the sea, stands the chapel of Prophet Elias
built on the hill of Prophitis Ilias. Most possibly it was built by monks from other neighboring monasteries.

This church has a panoramic view of the port, the villages and Arkadies.

KIPOS

• Panghia tou Kipou

In the south part of the island, in the region of Kipos, you will find another church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
The diversity the church of Panaghia tou Kipou lies in the fact that it is the oldest church of the island. Built in
Byzantine times (5th century), it is worth visiting it, not only because it is well-preserved and of an excellent
architecture, but also so as to see one of the two fonts-vaptistiria that exist in the island, as well as pieces of a
marble sarcophagus dated from the Hellenistic age.

POLLONIA

• Aghia Paraskevi (Saint Paraskevi)

In the settlement of Pollonia, facing the small mole where the fishing boats anchor, you will see the church of
Aghia Paraskevi, built on a hill.

Its architecture is that of a basilica covered by a gabled arched roof and it is a modern church built after the
Second World War. The Germans had demolished the chapel in order to built a pill-box and when the war was
over the inhabitants of Pollonia rebuilt this modern church.
Attractions
Other special attractions that every visitor should visit in Milos island.

Castle

The Castle was built in the 13th century on the hill of Prophitis Ilias, on the northwest edge of the island
(today’s Plaka).

Nowadays it is not inhabited, but its visitors can admire a view of incomparable beauty of the entire island bay
and of the magic sunset that is worth enjoying when you decide to climb all the way to the top. Also, ascending
to the Castle, you will have the chance to see the church of The Assumption of the Virgin Mary or Panaghia
Skiniotissa and the church of Panaghia Thalassitra.

This Venetian Castle was not surrounded by walls, as it was the case with most of the Cycladic castles, but it
was protected by the houses. Practically, the castle was used to protect the local population against the attacks
of pirates (a frequent phenomenon of the era), and also for the control of the ships’ movements in Adamantas
bay. On its top, the “Mesa Kastro”, the Tower of the Governor was located, the so called Palace and around the
tower there were a few houses. It was established by the first duke of Naxos, Marcus Sanoudos and in the Mesa
Kastro there were mainly the residencies of the Duke’s manors and deputies, as well as of other relatives and
Franks.

Kleftiko

The complex of these volcanic original rocks is a magical landscape worthy of admiration, and also a
part to enjoy the sensation of the transparent blue-green waters and the sun.

Kleftiko used to be an old hide-out for pirates from where the pirates’ ships used to pass and anchor so as to get
protected in its small creeks and imposing rocks.

Today, these unique geologic formations created by the wind and the sea, are the perfect place for swimming
and exploration. They are accessible only by sea and for this reason we suggest you go on a sea trip to this
magic landscape.

Sarakiniko

In the Northeast part of the island, you will find the most photographed Aegean landscape: Sarakiniko.

This moonscape is unique. The volcanic eroded Rocks penetrate into the emerald-colored sea creating small
and big caves, whereas the lack of green (vegetation), in combination with the rocks’ white color and the
intense reflection of the light create a landscape similar to the moon’s surface, thus making this experience
unforgettable for all of its visitors.

Sarakiniko, named after the Saracen pirates overlooks Sifnos and Kimolos and it is recommended you visit it
when the wind is not north.

It is worth noting that you should also visit Sarakinino at night, especially when the moon is full, as the snow-
white rocks of soft material reflect the light even the moonlight vividly, thus, creating an unforgettable
landscape.

Sulphur Mines

In the east side of Milos lies Paliorema, a bay with crystal clear waters and yellowish pebbles, colored
by the sulphur. There the sulphur mine of Victor Melas used to be in operation, the oldest business for
the mining of sulphur all over Greece .

In Paliorema or Theioryheia you can combine your swim with a visit to one of the geologic sites of the
island’s mining history. You can rest on the beach with the colorful pebbles and the fine sand and you can enjoy
your swim viewing the old quarries for the mining of sulphur and the ruins of offices, spare parts and personal
items of the quarries’ workers which compose an attractive landscape.
Historically, between 1890-1905, the mines were in function, owned by the Company of Public and Municipal
Works. In 1905 their function stopped due to the production of cheap sulphur in the U.S.A. In 1910-1918 they
were functioning sporadically, whereas in the 1930s there were in full operation and the installations - seen
even today- were made. The sulphur mines, the Theioryheia, were in operation until 1960, whereas the
business was put to a permanent stop in 1978.

Hiking

Milos has the biggest network of accesible dirt roads and paths of Cyclades.

Paths lacking signs and are not organized, but according to the route you are going to choose you will
have the chance to go through volcanic formations, archaeological sites, traditional chapels, old mines,
beautiful beaches and in general meet and enjoy through those routes the natural beauty and the long
cultural tradition of the island.

Tripiti – Catacombs – Ancent Roman theatre – Profitis ilias – Old baptism area – Black wall – Aphrodite
of Milos: Reaching the village of Tripiti , optionally you can go up the hill to see the windmills and the amazing
sea view. After that you go downhill to the catacombs, where if you have transportation vehicle you can park it
there. After you see the catacombs, going up the stairs for the return, you will see on your left a path. You are
taking it and it will lead you to the Ancient Roman Theatre. From there you follow the path on your right and
after you find yourself on top of the Ancient theatre make a turn on the small dirt road on your left. It won’t be
long till you reach the location Three Churches where the baptism area is located and when you do so you will
continue walking towards the small chapel of Profitis Ilias which is going to be visible on a hill top in front of
you. You will pass through a field and you will have to go up about 50 stairs which will lead you at the chapel
where the magnificent view will make it worth your while. On your return you will follow the same road that
took you there and keep going towards the baptism area until you meet an information sign that will point you
to the location where Aphrodite of Milos discovered.

Alternative Route: Tripiti – Catacombs – Ancient Theatre – Klima: You follow the route mentioned above
until you reach the Ancient Theatre. After that you go down the stairs that are located on the opposite side of
the theatre and lead you to Klima. From Klima to tripiti you can follow the main tarmac road or alternatively go
up the stairs on you left and go through from the chapel of Agia Paraskeui in order to go back to the
catacombs.

Plaka – Panagia Thalassitra - Kastro : On the slope above the capital city of Plaka is the location of Panagia of
Thalassitra. The distinctive coat of arms of crispy’s family will make it easily recognizable. Going up the stairs
you will find yourselves on Castle top where you can enjoy magnificent view and experience romantic sunsets.

Pollonia – Filakopi : Near the village of Pollonia you will find Filakopi, one of the most important cities of
prehistoric agean sea. There you will find ruins of the magnificent cyclopean wall so as ruins of the settlement
that used to be there in ancient times.

Katsogria – St George – St Marina – Rivari – Empourios: This route is located in Western Milos. This is a
route for nature lovers and it’s a part of Natura 2000 network. It starts from Rivari lagoon and ends in the small
port of empourio.

Zefyria – Agia Kyriaki beach (Length about 5 kilometers. Duration: 2 hours): Route starts from Zefiria
and goes to the airport and islands greenhouses. It continues through the Stoloi area in between 2 hills – parts
of the volcano. Soon after that there a special scene which resembles a grass field and with a bit of search you
will be able to locate geysers. Very close from that location you can find the beach of Agia Kyriaki.

Filakopi – Papafragas – Pachaina – Agios Konstantinos – Mitakas – Sarakiniko – Mandrakia (Length 9

kilometers. Duration : 3 hours): On this expedition you will have the chance to see the infamous Sarakiniko
and Papafraga, the archaeological site of fylakopi which is the starting location, and the beautiful settlement of
Mandrakia where you will end your expedition

Cape Vani (Old mines) – Agia Marina (length 12 km, duration 5 hours): This route starts from the old ferro
manganese mines at Cape Vani. You will walk down the dirt road of Xerokampos towards Ampourdektaki
(located near Agios Dimitrios bay) and you will continue towards the hunting path which will lead you close to
empourio. From there ( central dirt road ) you will reach Rivari lagoon, Fatourena and in the end you will go up
towards Agia Marina.

Natural park
“Arkeuthos” is a field in a gorge of about 500 acres in size, with two waterfalls, in the center of the
Natura 2000 area in Milos, in the region of Halakas (2,5 klm away from Emporios village). A small
part of it is an orchard, a vineyard and an old house and another one is a waste land with a small
chapel where divine liturgies are held.

The visitors of this natural park can admire cypresses, cedars, vermicelli (a kind of wild-cypress tree) and other
species of rare flora, he or she can be informed of the Melian viper, see rare animals and walk on a indented 5km
path.

Geological Promenades
Thanks to its volcanic grounds and its magic geographic bas-relief, Milos is a natural geologic park ready to be
explored.

For all those interested in such an extraordinary tour, the Mining Museum of Milos organizes geologic walks to
the most important locations of geological and mining interest on the island. (For more information
visit: www.milosmminingmuseum.com or call at tel.: 0030 22870 21620).

We recommend the following footpaths that present a geologic and mining interest:

Route A’

• “Conference Center of Milos-Yiorgios Iliopoulos” - The building used to be a factory for the processing
of kaolin. It was renovated by the company ORYMIL S.A. It is in full operation since 2000.

• Kanavas Factory - A factory for the processing of bentonite and port installations for loading, owned by
the company S&B Industrial Minerals S.A.

• Kanavas Fumaroles - Submarine leaks of hot gasses and the gushing of hot water of a temperature
from 35-75 C. They are used as hot springs.

• Alyki /Salt-pan - Old facilities for the production of salt, through natural evaporation of sea water.

• Alyki Spa - Ancient spa cave. Chlorinated hot spring.

• Geothermic Plant - A plant for the production of electric power, with motive power the pressure of the
geothermic liquids in the area that used to rise to the surface by P.P.C. drillings. It functioned for a
limited time period experimentally and it was abandoned mainly due to technical reasons.

• Fylakopi- Papafragas - The development of Fylakopi, the prehistoric city of Milos, according to many
researchers is attributed to the trading of obsidian. Papafragas was created by volcanic tuffs having as
main component the fragments of pumice (pumice-stone).

• Zefyria or Hora - A medieval city of Milos. It flourished till the end of the 17th century. The inhabitants
abandoned the city because of the volcanic fumes and the epidemics. In the area there is one of the
world’s best geothermic fields.

• Installations of the company S&B Industrial Minerals S.A., Voudia - Here, in 1934, the Company began
its activities in Milos, for the exploitation of silver and barite. In 1950s the processing of bentonite,
kaolin and pearlite began. Today there are modern installations for the processing of pearlite and
bentonite, of the biggest ones in Europe. From the loading bridge 95% of the production is exported
worldwide.
 • Aggerias Mine - One of biggest bentonite mines in the world. The exploitation began in 1985 and the
average annual mining is one million tons. The different colors that can be seen are due to the different
material quantities and they are created by the iron oxides.

Route B’

• Sarakiniko - A volcanic formation, the shape is mostly caused by the sea erosion and the rainwater. The
presence of sea fossils is obvious.

• Fyropotamos - A plant for the processing of the mineral kaolin in the 1960s.

• Trahilos - Remains of volcanic activity.

A pearlite mine of the company S&B Industrial Minerals S.A., where the simultaneous exploitation and
restoration of the landscape takes place (restored gradients by the sea).

Route C’

• Hivadolimni - An old pearlite mine restored by the company S&B Industrial Minerals S.A.

• Tsigrado - A plant for the production of pearlite owned by the company S&B Industrial Minerals S.A.

• Fyriplaka crater - Remains of the last volcanic activity on the island.

• Kalamos - A characteristic sample of fumaroles’ action on the island. The overheated steams are
released by wheezing from the underground leaving accretions of salts and sulphur.

• Aghia Kyriaki - Traces of mineral activity in the classic antiquity era and in the Roman period.

Other Important Sights

• Glaronisia - Andesitic lava. Characteristic columnar splitting with pillars of mainly pentagonal
segmentation, indicative of the freezing in minor depth.

• Kleftiko - White tuffs of a characteristic stratification. The pirates used it as a refuge.

• Vani - A slow mine for the exploitation of manganese of an important geologic interest.

• Demenegaki - Prehistoric obsidian mines

• Sulphur mines (Theioryhia) - Deserted mining tunnels and a plant for the processing of sulphur.
Historically, between 1890-1905, the mines were in function, owned by the Company of Public and
Municipal Works. In 1905 their function stopped due to the production of cheap sulphur in the U.S.A. In
1910-1918 they were functioning sporadically, whereas in the 1930s there were in full operation and
the installations - seen even today- were made. The sulphur mines, the Theioryheia, were in operation
until 1960, whereas the business was put to a permanent stop in 1978.

Climbing
For the lovers of adventure there are two climbing fields in Milos: in Tourla, Vanio and in Glaronisia.

In “cape Vani” climbing is possible on a huge conic-shaped rock. The name of the climbing ground is “ Tourla
tou Vaniou /Tourla of Vanio” and it considered to be one of the best climbing fields in Greece. For more
information concerning the climbing in Tourla of Vanio go
to: www.orevatein.com/oreivatein/climb/default.html.

In Pollonia, there is also the possibility for climbing in “Glaronisia”. Glaronisia are some of the best climbing
fields in Greece and these are the only islands made of basalt and in the shape of six-sided wands.

Hot springs
Milos thanks to the volcanic activity and the meta-volcanic hydrothermal action has a lot of hot springs,
well-known in antiquity for their therapeutic powers. Characteristically, Hippocrates in his book E’ “On
epidemics” refers to the therapy of an eminent Athenian who suffered from a skin disease and who was
cured at the Hot Springs of Lakkos in Milos. Furthermore, the French professor of Botanic Pitton de
Tournefort refers to the island’s hot springs in his “tour” texts in 1771.

The island is full of hot springs of different temperature and water composition. Below you can be informed of
the most important ones:

• Lakkos Adamantas Hot Springs

Temperature: 33-41C, depending on the sea level and the weather. Composition: Thermal mineral sulphide,
ferrous, chlorinated

• Haros Adamantas Hot Springs

Temperature: up to 85 C. Composition: chlorinated, alipiges (hot springs)

• Alikes

Located north of Aliki in a low cave with a narrow entrance. The spring is chlorinated and it flows into an one
meter deep pit which is full of water and mud. Temperature: 28-40 C. Composition: chlorinated, radioactive

• Provatas

Temperature: 65-90 C. Composition: sulphur, fumaroles

• Paliohori

Temperature: 65-90 C. Composition: sulphur, alipiges (hot springs)

• Tria Pigadia

Temperature: 33-41 C. Composition: alipiges (hot springs)

• Kanava

These waters are in the southwest side of the P.P.C. plant and they cure arthritis. Temperature: up to 50 C.
Composition: chlorinated, alipiges (hot springs)

• Skinopi

Temperature: up to 41 C . Composition: alipiges (hot springs)

At the above beaches (Alikes, Provatas, Skinopi, Paliohori, Tria Pigadia, Kanava), in the places where hot
springs exist, you will see fumaroles gushing within the sea water and you can enjoy your swim completely for
free all year round. However, out of all the hot springs, the only exploitable and recognized as a therapeutic
spa-spring of a healing importance, is that of “Lakkos” in Adamantas, which is mentioned in Hippocrates’s
works. The hot springs of Lakkos are located in the left side of Adamantas harbor, in a cave of 15m and their
features are the following:

The features of “Lakkos Hot Springs” are:

Thermal mineral
Sulphur
Chlorinated
Water temperature: 35-41 C

Their therapeutic indications are:

• Chronic rheumatism
• Arthritis
 • Myalgias
• Neuralgias and in general peripheral nerves diseases
• Skin diseases
• Gynecological diseases

The hot springs of Lakkos are opened for spa-treatments from the 15th of July till the 15th of October, from 7a.m.
till 1p.m.

Conference Tourism
In Adamantas region you can visit “Milos Conference Center –Yiorgios Iliopoulos”, which is open all year
round and it hosts up to 450 members.

The conference center “Yiorgios Iliopoulos” is housed in a building of wonderful architecture, an old plant for
the processing of kaolin dated from 1925, which was restored based on criteria of great aesthetics respecting
its industrial architecture.

The Center is built and equipped according to the most modern standards and apart from the conference rooms
there also administration offices, a special room for the Press, an Internet room and a fully equipped medical
center, whereas the places that are to be used by the audience are all accessible to people with special needs. In
the grounds of the Center there are parking lots for 100 vehicles, and a security fencing to accommodate the
space surveillance. Moreover, Milos Conference Center is of a fully technological support, it has two
simultaneous interpretation rooms, the most modern audiovisual and telecommunication means as well as a
skilled personnel. For the coverage of the conference demands there are two major operational areas, the
central building A, the main room that can accommodate up to 400 members depending on the seats’
arrangement, and an adjoining building B of multiple usages, the “EURIPIDES MAUROMATTIS WING”, where,
apart from the auxiliary facilities, there are also three multiple usage rooms (B1, B2, B3).

The main room of the building A can be divided with a portable partition into two separate and fully
soundproof rooms (one for 280 members (A1) and one more for 120 members (A2)), thus offering the
possibility to choose between a big united space or two separate smaller ones. Additionally, in the same room
there is a balcony of a 60 people seating capacity, and it should also be noted that there are possibilities for
open-air activities in an extremely pleasant environment.

Apart from hosting conferences and happenings organized by third parties, the Center’s activities include the
institution of “Milos Conferences” (Milos Meetings) to which special attention is drawn. Within the framework
of this institution, conferences are organized planned for the appropriate interaction environment between the
academic community branches and the business world, aiming at the spreading of scientific and technological
knowledge.

The additional activities of the Milos Conference Center include the organization of courses of traditional arts
(e.g. mosaics and ceramic art) and the hosting of recreational and educational happenings (cinema, music
concerts, theater performances, lectures, ping-pong games etc.)