Kimolos is an island with long history and rich in minerals, fact that added to its past economic prosperity. The name of the island in Greek means chalk and is taken of the chalk minerals, while Venetians used to refer to it as Argentiera because of the silvery color of its rocks. Kimolos has been a battlefield for Athenians and Spartans in the ancient times as Kimolos belonged to Athens and Milos to Spartans.
Kimolos went under Venetian Rule and then under the Ottomans but it has always remained an important trade centre.
The medieval castle built in Chorio, the main settlement of the island is the mani sight of Kimolos. The castle was built from Venetians during the period of the Venetian Duchy of Archipelagos established in Cyclades in the 12th century.
The folk and maritime museum of Kimolos is located in the castle and exhibits tools and objects of everyday life of the past. The archaeological museum is also located in Chorio and has some interesting Cycladic findings and many photos of the island.
Some of the most impressive bays is this of Gerakia Cave and the beach of Agioklima where you can enjoy the hot spring flowing at the waterside.
The most popular local dish is ‘ladenia’ a pie of dough, tomato, onion and olive oil. There are also dairy products like ‘xino’ sour fresh skim-milk cheese and local cucumbers which are used in salad.