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Just south of Greece’s touristy town of Santorini and through the Little Cyclades is the lesser-known but equally intriguing island of Amorgos. A peninsula rich in cultural heritage and cradled in the deepest of deep blue waters, its main draw is the Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa or, Monastery of the Virgin Mary.
The eastern-most island of the Cyclades, Amorgos sits at the center of the Southern Aegean Sea where North and South intersect serving as an exit route from the eastern Aegean islands toward the coast of Asia Minor.
Why Go There
Rimmed with stellar beaches and cerulean blue water, Amorgos is dotted with beautiful caves, excellent dive spots and seven ancient footpaths to traverse its picturesque terrain and scenic bays.
Surrounded by rocky hills and situated at the center of the island, the Hora of Amorgos features scenic squares, whitewashed alleys and traditional Cycladic homes with courtyards filled with bougainvillea trees. Its winding, narrow streets lead to sights like a 13th century castle and the island’s prized monasteries.
The main harbor, Katapola has rows of boats and small cruise ships for those looking to set out on an adventure at sea. And, the second harbor, Eyiali, features a vibrant waterfront lined with numerous restaurants and cafes for watching remarkable sunsets.
Lush grape and olive groves carpet the island’s countryside, producing excellent wine and olive oil. And, local women can be seen carrying out a time-honored tradition of crafting fine embroidery pieces.
The footpaths of Amorgos are mapped and sign-posted for visitors and lead to views of the island’s diverse fauna and flora, cultural treasures and ancient windmills standing guard over the sea.
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Treasured Monasteries of Amorgos
According to historical record, the Virgin Mother’s icon landed on the island of Amorgos from Hozova in Palestine, the Holy Land. Legend has it that the boat carrying the icon ran aground when it reached the island and remains the home of the monastery today.
Priests take care of the monasteries and serve visitors psimeni raki, a local liquor which is flavored with honey, cinnamon, loukoumi and cloves. And, for the women in your group, modest dress is required, meaning women must have their arms and legs covered in a dress or skirt. Loaner scarves are provided to be fashioned into makeshift skirts when necessary.
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