Karpathos

Karpathos is part of the Dodecanese group of islands, near to the Turkish coast. Located between its much better known neighbours of Rhodes and Crete, the northern and southern areas of this narrow island are divided by a spine of high mountains. The south of the island is where the capital Pigadia is located, and is the area where most of the tourists are based. Unlike many of its island neighbours, Karpathos has not yet been invaded by mass tourism and has retained a good deal of the charm that attracts so many visitors to Greece. In the northern part of the island, visitors can find many traditional and completely unspoilt villages.

Karpathos is the second largest island in the Dodecanese chain. It is known for its natural beauty, the local inhabitants have a reputation for keeping their traditions alive. Traditional costumes are worn during festivities by all the local women on the island, The colourful costumes are worn with a scarf covering the head, and a double line of gold coins on their chest. Their houses are also decorated with hand made woven fabrics and embroideries, so much so that some of their homes resemble miniature museums. Throughout the island is is still not unusual to find bread still being baked in traditional bread ovens.

Pigadia, the islands capital and main port is in a sheltered position in Vrontis bay. This was once an ordinary working town, but it has developed into a resort with a bustling waterfront area. It is here where visitors will find everything need in the way of shops.

Archeologically the oldest finds on the island have been dated as far back as approximately 2.500 B.C. In around 1600 B.C. the influence of the Minoans starts to become evident. During the 14th century the Mycenaean's conquered the island and constructed the acropolis of Potidaios. According to Homer's epic poem the Iliad, Karpathos sent ships to participate in the war with Troy. Much later, the Phoenicians used Karpathos as one of their trading stations.

There is a variety of bars, discotheques, clubs and tavernas mostly situated in the capital Pigadia. On Karpathos there is also the opportunity to taste a number of local dishes like "amemoula" which is traditionally offered on the 25th of March, chickpeas, pilau rice, and sweets such as baklava.

Panagia, a Wonderful wide beach varying from white sand to large pebbles is one of the beaches scattered around the islands coastline, many are located in areas of outstanding beauty. Some are nestled in picturesque, secluded coves while others can extend over a number of kilometres.

Apelas with its fine sand and turquoise waters is another beach well worth a visit, others are, Achata, a quiet pebble beach. Ammopi, located south of the capital and is an area with a string if nice sandy beaches. Finiki, again a nice sandy beach. Lefkos made up from three horseshoe bays of pure white sand. and finally Vronti, an un-crowded sandy beach fringed by trees.

In common with many Greek islands, there are a number of versions on how the sland got its name. One popular interpretation is that the island was named after the plant Karpasos that was known to have been common on the island. This same plant is thought to have given its name to Karpasia, a city on the island of Cyprus.