FOLEGANDROS

The beauteous, rocky island of Folegandros lies on the southern part of the Cyclades Group. Once a remote, disregarded destination, its popularity has been increasingly growing, creating a large number of enthusiasts who visit the island each year. A small island, it covers an area of 32 sq. km and has a population of about 600 inhabitants. The main settlement is the town of Folegandros. Inhabited since prehistoric years, there is evidence of civilized presence dating back to the 4th millennia BC. Many significant archaeological findings have been discovered on the island, such as ancient inscriptions and coins, remnants of the famed Cycladic civilization, and relics of the classical and the Roman periods. The latter, obviously unaware of the beauty of the land, used it a place of exile, not knowing that perhaps they were doing a favor instead of imposing punishment. There are many beautiful churches and chapels, remnants of medieval architecture -in the main settlement there are houses with their wooden balconies joined for protection- and the celebrated four squares, where all the action takes place. Additional attractions include the enchanting cave of Chrysospilia, with an impressive decoration of stalagmites and stalactites, the Georgitsi cave, situated close to the harbor of Karavostasi, and the Folk Art Museum in the village of Ano Meria, providing cultural insight into traditional island life. Folegandros is an ideal destination for relaxing but not solitary holidays. Life on this island is simple in an exciting way. All around the four squares of the main village there are comely bars, coffee houses, and taverns that convey a cosy feeling. There are also fine stores providing visitors with all the essentials and a few extras. Swimming, scuba diving, surfing, fishing and trekking are favorite sporting activities. Visitors should not leave without buying local honey or tasting onion pies, a local specialty. Ferries depart from Piraeus to Karavostasi (Folegandros) all year round with more frequent service during the summer. There are also ferry and fast ferry connections with the islands of Ios, Kimolos, Milos, Kythnos, Santorini, Serifos, Sikinos, Sifnos, Paros, Mykonos, Syros, Tinos, and Naxos.

Usefull telephones:

FOLEGANDROS AREA CODE:  22860-

POLICE STATION  : 22860-41249

COMMUNITY OFFICE: 22860-41285

POST OFFICE: 22860-41299

MEDICAL CENTER: 22860-41222

PHARMACIES: 22860-41540