Greek island of Samos: photos, attractions and reviews

2024 Author: Harold Hamphrey | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 10:06

One of the largest islands in the Aegean is still an exotic route for tourists. The birthplace of Pythagoras and Epicurus deserves the attention of those who dream of relaxing by the sea, and all connoisseurs of ancient culture. The rich architectural heritage and many beaches will pleasantly surprise foreign travelers who prefer privacy.

A bit of history

The ninth most populated island of Samos is separated from Turkey by the Eptastadio, a channel about 1600 meters wide. The lands of paradise, which is part of the Eastern Sporades archipelago, are considered the most fertile in Greece, and the wonderful wine with a mild taste "Vathi" has long been known outside the country.

Before the ice age, Samos was part of Asia Minor, and due to its favorable geographical position, it is quickly populated by the Greeks. In ancient times, it was one of the richest colonies of Hellas, and later the island becomes an economically developed metropolis of Ancient Greece.

In the Byzantine period, it receives the status of autonomy,and in the XV century, its inhabitants leave the fertile place because of the constant raids of pirates. And only ten years later, the uninhabited island of Samos is settled by Orthodox migrants who were looking for a secluded corner across the ocean. In 1830, it was annexed to the Ottoman Empire, and during this period the center of Ionian culture literally flourished.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Samos becomes part of Greece. During the Second World War, it is occupied by Italian and German troops, and the bombing destroys many of the island's attractions. And only with the development of tourism, a unique example of the history and nature of Greece returns its lost positions.

The climate of the legendary island

Mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by sunny summers, short and warm winters, will appeal to adults and children. With a beneficial effect on the respiratory system, it contributes to a pleasant pastime throughout the year. Summer heat (up to 35 degrees) is easily tolerated thanks to the refreshing sea breeze. The swimming season starts in May and ends at the end of October.

A place for relaxing and active holidays

The Greek island of Samos, whose capital is the city of the same name, is a wonderful place to relax. Equipped beaches, warm sea, picturesque landscapes, developed hotel infrastructure have recently attracted an increasing number of tourists. A variety of attractions will allow guests to enjoy their holidays.

Temple of Hera

In the south of the resort is its historical center, named after Pythagoras. Here arethe ruins of one of the most important monuments of ancient civilization - the temple dedicated to Hera.

Even the historian Herodotus in his works singled out several wonders of the world, among which was the majestic sanctuary of the wife of Zeus, located on the territory of a blooming paradise. According to the legends, Hera from the island of Samos became the wife of the formidable son Kronos, who is in charge of the whole world. The followers of the cult of the goddess who patronized marriage set out to build a structure in her honor, and in 720 BC a temple appeared, surrounded by a large number of columns.

It was a whole religious complex about 109 meters long. The high temple served as a model for other structures, but after a strong earthquake it was destroyed. Now visitors to the archaeological site can observe one column, which has been preserved from time immemorial.

Underground aqueduct tunnel

In Pythagorio is the second important attraction - the aqueduct, which is an underground tunnel. Carved into the rock, it provided the inhabitants of the island with clean water. A unique building, which is a masterpiece of engineering of that time, Herodotus also included in the list of the main wonders of the world.

Monument to the philosopher and the cave named after him

Several interesting places are connected with the name of the great Pythagoras, which are sure to be visited by tourists who come to the colorful island of Samos. Attractions are of genuine interest to the guests of the resort. On the seashore risesa monument dedicated to the ancient Greek philosopher, and at the foot of Mount Kersis there is a cave named after him. It is believed that the mathematician spent about 10 years in it, hiding from the persecution of the tyrant ruler.

List of the most popular beaches of Samos

Colorful photos of the island of Samos make you want to visit it and soak up the warm turquoise waters. The picturesque resort is famous for its large number of pebble beaches, ideal for families. The best is Clima, surrounded by inexpensive bars and taverns serving national cuisine. Tourists with children rest on a shallow beach located near the town of Poseidonio, and even loud noise and bustle do not interfere with enjoying the wonderful beauty of the island.

Not far from the town of Vathy is Agia Markella, an ideal place with the purest water. The wild beach, named after the patron saint of the island, is very popular.

Psili Amos, located in the vicinity of Samos, will appeal to lovers of picnics and active entertainment. It is a sandy beach and the gentle entry into the water makes it incredibly comfortable for guests.

Kerveli is chosen by connoisseurs of secluded relaxation. This is not a crowded beach where you can spend the whole day relaxing and enjoying nature.

Malagari is chosen not only by lovers of water sports, but also by true connoisseurs of good wines, as there is a winery near the beach where you can taste sparkling drinks.

The best producing resort in the worldMuscat

When it comes to wine, it is impossible not to mention that the island of Samos is the birthplace of sweet Muscat. Once the Vatican kept its own winery here, and now the Catholic Church has given permission to make a drink for Holy Communion.

Samos muscat has been a major export product since antiquity and has received numerous international awards. In the first ten days of August, the fairy-tale corner is filled with tourists from different countries who have come to taste the invigorating drink. Bought one glass of wine with an exquisite fruity bouquet is allowed to fill as many times as the guests of the blessed island wish.

No one leaves here without a bottle of sparkling drink and freshly pressed olive oil.

What else to bring from the island?

The main souvenir of Samos is the "mug of justice", invented by Pythagoras. At that time, water was worth its weight in gold, and the ancient Greek mathematician and philosopher was instructed to come up with a special vessel that would allow working slaves to fairly distribute life-giving moisture among themselves.

This is how an amazing mug appeared: you can only pour water up to a certain mark, otherwise the liquid will pour out.

The island of Samos is famous for its craftsmen who work in leather and ceramics, so tourists get beautiful belts, wallets, handmade dishes. And those who visited the village of Pyrgos, whose inhabitants have beencenturies known throughout the world for their beekeeping traditions, they acquire fragrant honey.

Kitchen and dishes

As tourists admit, local dishes are one of the main reasons to visit the resort. Hippocrates wrote about the quality of food in Samos, and all travelers consider the national cuisine to be the most delicious.

Inhabitants of the island produce fresh yoghurts, s alty cheeses, and local restaurants offer a variety of dishes from eggplant, tomatoes, seafood. You can't ignore the fragrant fruits grown under the Greek sun.

Samos Island (Greece): reviews

Tourists are enthusiastic about the holidays spent on the island. The luxurious resort is loved by couples with children and travelers who crave solitude. Guests of Samos admit that here there is a feeling of harmony and unity with nature.

Everyone notes the excellent service and hospitality of local residents, who are happy to talk about national traditions. Archaeological sights arouse genuine interest among tourists, and beaches with clear water pleasantly surprise even discerning vacationers.