Description of Kasos
Kasos is one of the least tourist visited island in the
Dodecanese. Living in remoteness and under the heavy shadow of the famous
Rhodes,
Kasos has kept an air of innocence and authenticity. Although, tourism is not the way islanders make their living, you can find
hotels and
restaurants that meet the standard facilities and above all the friendliness of the residents.
Geography of Kasos
Kasos spans an area of 64 sq. km. with a total population of 1088 residents. The islet of
Armathia on the north is not inhabited. The islands closer to
Kasos are
Karpathos on the northeast and
Crete on the southwest.
History of Kasos
Kasos, despite the fact of being a small and remote island, has a rich history. It participated in the Trojan War and has been a great resource for merchant shipping. During Turkish Rule the island flourished with a large mercantile fleet which has been considered as an important threat. In 1824, Mohammad Ali, the Turkish governor of Egypt landed on
Kasos and killed most of the island’s population. The economic decline in the late 19th century made many of the residents to migrate in Egypt where most of them found jobs in the construction of Suez Canal. Many migrated to the USA, South Africa and the mainland of
Greece.
Kasos joined Greece in 1947 with the rest of the
Dodecanese islands.
Sightseeing on Kasos
The deep religious belief of the residents of
Kasos can be seen in the number of churches built on the island. There are about hundred churches and chapels scattered on the island. It is worth visiting the church of Agios Spiridonas, the complex of six churches in Panagia village and the church of Agios Georgios who is considered to be the protector of the island. There are also many beaches of different kind of beauty. Some of them are sandy, some others have harsh rocks and cliffs or pebbles. The most popular ones are: Emporio, Ammoua, Helatros and the beach on the islet Armathia.
Local Products of Kasos
Kasos has tasty meat and dairy products. There is also local honey.
Getting to Kasos
By air from Athens International Airport or by ferry boats departing from Piraeus Port in Athens.
Best time to visit Kasos
From June till September.
Useful Phone Numbers on Kasos
Police: +30 22450 41222
Port Authorities of Kasos: +30 22450 41288
Airport: +30 22450 41587
Doctor: +30 22450 41333
