Amorgos is the easternmost island of the Cyclades. Its principal attractions are its numerous comely beaches, the remarkable traditional architecture of its hospitable settlements, and the remnants of its rich past. The history of Amorgos does not differ much from that of the rest of the Cyclades, being a center of the great Cycladic civilization of the Neolithic Age, and Minoan base at the time of the peak of the Cretan civilization. Amorgos is a beautiful and quiet island, which will never cease to keep the visitor interested. The hotels offer breathtaking views of its picturesque Cycladic landscape and direct access to magnificent beaches with crystal-clear waters. The view from the ruins of ancient Minoa, where important excavations have taken place, is a truly spectacular sight. The Amorgos Museum is housed in an old tower in the town center. This beautiful and original museum exhibits findings which originate from local archaeological sites. The first high-school of modern Greece, built in 1828 after winning the War for Independence which began in 1821, is another cultural asset of the island, added to the many old churches, monasteries, castles, towers and ancient ruins, all of which bear witness of a rich past that reaches deep into the dawn of history, and well beyond. In the recent years, as people are becoming familiar with the attractions of the island and have been arriving in steadily increasing numbers, more bars, cafes and taverns have sprung up to cater for the summer bustle of tourists. Congresses can also be held in newly established facilities. Beginning late in spring and until the end of autumn, many special events are held in the capital and in the villages of Aegiali and Katapola, especially during the local festivals of the 1st and the 26th of July. As for sports, Amorgos will be a pleasant surprise with its football field, its basketball court, its indoor gymnasium, and the water sports equipment, available on most popular beaches, especially those near the hotels. There are also services renting boats, which enable visitors to reach some of the many beaches inaccessible by land. Trekkers will discover many interesting routes among the winding paths of the island, though many will find more interest in taking a course in gastronomy, culture, or spiritual pursuits. Ferries sail from Piraeus and Rafina to Katapola and Aegiali all year round, with service frequency enhanced in the Summer season. There are also Flying Dolphins from Rafina, which reduce the journey from ten and a half hours to about five and a half. The ferry routes from Rafina and Piraeus link Amorgos with Paros, Ios, Naxos, Santorini, Mykonos, Syros, Astypalea, Herakleion in Crete, and the smaller Eastern Cyclades (Iraklia, Koufonisia, Schinoussa) all year round. Before leaving, try to secure a bottle of rakomelo, the local traditional drink; it is rare, just as its unique taste.
Usefull telephones:
AMORGOS AREA CODE: 22850-
MEDICAL CENTER: 22850-72250, 71207, 71805, 73222
MUNICIPALITY: 22850-60200, 71246, 74035
POST OFFICE: 22850-71250
PORT POLICE: 22850-71259
POLICE STATION: 22850-71210, 71400
|