Mykonos is in the centre of tourist interest in Greece as the famous island stands dazzling and ethereal in the bright light, while captivating visitors’ senses with a feeling of love at first sight. Mykonos has been described as cosmopolitan, vivacious and tolerant but above all it is a Greek island blessed with beauty and character with a wide range of unique beaches and hotels.
History
The island of Mykonos in antiquity has always been in the shadow of the history of brilliant and sacred island of Delos, which has been the centre of the Athenian Empire. After its decline, Mykonos has followed the same path in history with the rest islands of Cyclades being often looted by pirates and suffering under Venetian and Ottoman Rule. Some of the bright events of the Greek Revolution have been given the initial boost here in Mykonos. Mando Mavrogenous was a heroine whose statue stands in the centre of the old port of Mykonos for her generous contribution in the revolution.
Geography
The best-known Greek island of Mykonos is located in the heart of the group of Cyclades Islands. Mykonos Island spans an area of 85,5 sq. km. with a total population of 9.320 residents. The altitude of the highest point of the island is 341 m. Mykonos has also a dam for the supply of water of the island that forms an artificial lake with special flora and fauna. The islets nearest to Mykonos are Delos and Rhenia and both of them are not inhabited. The islands closer to Mykonos are Tinos and Syros on the northwest.
Sights
The maze of the whitewashed curving alleyways is the entrance to Hora, the enchanting capital of Mykonos. White cube-shaped houses with colourful wooden balconies, tiny churches with blue and dark red domes make it memorable as one of the most beautiful places among the Greek islands. Don’t miss “little Venice” of Mykonos, undoubtedly the most charming part of Hora, with view to the famous “trademark” of the island the windmills. Of striking beauty and historical interest are the medieval houses of the Fortress, which form a wall to the west above the sea. Climb up on the small hill of the Fortress and here is the group of churches of Paraportiani, a wonderful white assembly of impressing buildings.
Products
Louza is the Mykonian prosciutto made of the pork fillet meat. It is served in thin slices and is a ‘delicatessen’ of Mykonian gastronomy.
Sausages of Mykonos are considered the finest in Greece due to the small quantity of fat they contain.
Kopanisti is type of soft cheese with spicy flavor. It is made of cow milk, or a mixture of cow, lamb and goat milk.
Getting to
By air from Athens International Airport or by ferry or catamaran boats departing from either Pireaus Port or Rafina Port in Athens.