Greek island of Samos: photos, attractions and reviews

One of the largest islands of the Aegean Sea still remains an exotic route for tourists. The homeland of Pythagoras and Epicurus deserves attention of those who dream to relax at sea, and all connoisseurs of ancient culture. A rich architectural heritage and many beaches will pleasantly surprise foreign travelers who prefer privacy.

A bit of history

The ninth largest island of Samos is separated from Turkey by Eptastadio - a canal about 1,600 meters wide. The land of the paradise corner, which is part of the Eastern Sporades archipelago, is considered the most fertile in Greece, and the wonderful wine with a mild taste of "Wafi" has long been known outside the country.

Before the glacial period, Samos was part of Asia Minor, and thanks to its favorable geographical position, the Greeks quickly populate it. In ancient times it was one of the richest colonies of Hellas, and later the island became 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 a fertile place because of the constant raids of pirates. And only after ten years the uninhabited island of Samos is populated by Orthodox migrants who were looking for a secluded place beyond the ocean. In 1830, he was annexed to the Ottoman Empire, and during this period the center of Ionian culture literally blossoms.

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

The climate of the island covered with legends

A mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by a sunny summer, a short and warm winter, will appeal to adults and children. Beneficially affecting the respiratory system, it contributes to a pleasant pastime throughout the year. Summer heat (up to 35 degrees) is easily tolerated thanks to a refreshing sea breeze. The swimming season starts in May and ends in late October.

A place for a relaxed and active holiday

The Greek island of Samos, whose capital is the eponymous city, is a wonderful place to relax. Equipped beaches, warm sea, picturesque landscapes, developed hotel infrastructure have attracted more and more tourists lately. A lot of attractions will allow guests to spend their holidays with benefit.

Temple of Hera

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

Still the historian Herodotus in his works distinguished several wonders of the world, among which was the majestic sanctuary of Zeus's wife, located on the territory of a blossoming paradise. According to the legends, Hera from the island of Samos became the wife of the terrible son of Kronos, who knows the whole world. Followers of the cult of the goddess who patronized the marriage set themselves the goal of erecting the building 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 in length. 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 since time immemorial.

Underground aqueduct tunnel

In Pythagorio is the second important attraction - the aqueduct, which is an underground tunnel. Hollowed out in the rock, he provided the inhabitants of the island with clean water. A unique construction, which is a masterpiece of engineering thought of the time, Herodotus also included in the list of the main wonders of the world.

The monument to the philosopher and the cave named in his honor

With the name of the great Pythagoras there are several other interesting places, which are sure to be visited by tourists who came to the picturesque island of Samos. Attractions are of genuine interest to the guests of the resort. On the seashore there is a 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 in it a mathematician spent about 10 years, hiding from the persecution of a tyrant ruler.

List of the most popular beaches of Samos

Colorful photos of Samos island cause an irresistible desire to visit and soak in warm turquoise waters. The picturesque resort is famous for its large number of pebbly beaches, ideal for a family holiday. The best is Clima, surrounded by inexpensive bars and taverns offering national cuisine. On a shallow beach located near the town of Poseidonio, tourists with children are resting, and even loud noise and vanity will not prevent you from enjoying the wonderful beauty of the island.

Not far from the city of Wafi is Agia Markella - the ideal place with the purest water. A wild beach, named after the patron saint of the island, is very popular.

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

Kerveli is chosen by connoisseurs of secluded rest. This is a little beach where you can spend the whole day relaxing and enjoying nature.

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

The resort producing the best in the world Muscat

When it comes to wine, we can not fail to mention that the island of Samos is the birthplace of sweet muscat. Once the Vatican had its own wine factory here, and now the Catholic Church gave permission to make a drink for the Holy Communion.

The Muscat of Samos, which received all kinds of international awards, is the main export product since ancient times. In the first ten days of August, the fairytale corner is filled with tourists from different countries, who came to taste the drinker. Purchased one glass of wine with an exquisite fruit bouquet is allowed to be filled as many times as the guests of the blessed island wish.

Hence, no one leaves without a bottle of sparkling beverage and freshly squeezed olive oil.

What else to bring from the island?

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

So there was an amazing mug: you can pour water only up to a certain mark, otherwise the liquid will pour out.

Samos Island is famous for craftsmen who make leather and are engaged in ceramics, therefore tourists get beautiful belts, wallets, handmade utensils. And those who visited the village of Pyrgos, whose inhabitants have been known throughout the world for centuries for their beekeeping traditions, are getting fragrant honey.

Kitchen and dishes

As recognized by tourists, local dishes - this is one of the main reasons to visit the resort. The quality of food of Samos was written by Hippocrates, and all travelers consider the national cuisine the most delicious.

Residents of the island produce fresh yoghurts, salted cheeses, and local restaurants offer a variety of dishes from eggplants, tomatoes, seafood. You can not ignore the fragrant fruit grown under the Greek sun.

Samos Island (Greece): reviews

Tourists enthusiastically recall the rest, spent on the island. A luxury resort is loved by couples with children and travelers eager for loneliness. The guests of Samos admit that there is a sense of harmony and unity with nature.

All celebrate the excellent service and hospitality of local residents, with pleasure telling about national traditions. Archaeological sights cause genuine interest among tourists, and beaches with clear water pleasantly surprise even discerning holidaymakers.

The exotic island of Samos (Greece) is one of the most attractive corners of the world, where you can hide from all problems and worries.