Description of Tilos
Tilos is a small island in the
Aegean near
Rhodes, among the less-known islands of the
Dodecanese and is the kind of place that although is neglected by the mainstream of tourists, it proves to be an authentic experience of hospitality. The tourist facilities are very good and there are many
hotels and rooms.
Tilos has been well known for the herbs that grow and for their healing properties.
Geography of Tilos
Tilos spans an area of 64,5 sq. km. with a total population of 533 residents. The islets nearest to
Tilos are Gaidaros and Antitilos and both of them are not inhabited. The islands closer to
Tilos are
Chalki and
Rhodes on the southeast,
Nisyros on the northwest and
Symi on the northeast.
History of Tilos
Tilos shares the same history of invasions and occupations as the rest of the islands in
Dodecanese. The island reached the greatest prosperity when the Byzantine monastery of St. Panteleimon was built and ancient castles were built by the Knights of St. John in the 14th century.
Tilos was back then a trading centre, well known for its medicines and healing herbs which still grow throughout the countryside, such as sage, chamomile, thyme, oregano and many more. Tilos joined the Greek State in 1948 with the rest of the
Dodecanese islands.
Sightseeing on Tilos
Tilos is a place for relaxation and creating a bond with nature. Due to the fact that hunting has been banned,
Tilos gathers a great number of birds and birdwatchers too.
Tilos is also a place where you can enjoy walking as it has a network of footpaths. There are many nice beaches where nudism is also tolerated if not fully accepted.
Local Products of Tilos
There is production of almonds and olives, honey and dairy products. In the souvenir shops it is common to see handcurved wooden miniatures of elephants and that is because of the discovery of the bones of prehistoric elephants on Tilos.
Getting to Tilos
By ferry boats departing from either Piraeus Port in Athens or Rhodes Island.
Best time to visit Tilos
From May till September.
Useful Phone Numbers on Tilos
Police: +30 22410 44222
Port Authorities of Tilos: +30 22410 44350
Medical Services: +30 22460 44210
