The cultural heritage of the islands of Paxos and Serifos

• Paxos

The Greek island of Paxos is the smallest group of the Ionian Islands. It is part of a small group called Paxi. The smallest island is known for good wine and sandy shores. Paxos beaches are pebbly except Mongonisi, which is only in sand. Inside the island there are small villages with houses that give the spirit of the locals. The water is crystal clear, while walking along the shore you will experience the fragrance of the many pine and olive trees.

It is assumed that the Paxos was inhabited in prehistoric times. Traditionally, the Phoenicians are considered the first inhabitants. The name of the island supposedly comes from the word Pax which means Slate of Phoenician language. The island was part of the Roman Empire until the 2nd century AD. During the Byzantine Empire and the Middle Ages, it was constantly attacked by pirates. In the late 14th century power over the island belonged to the Venetian Republic. This contributes to the architecture of the island in Venetian style. According to Greek mythology, it is believed that Poseidon created the Paxos by striking Corfu with his trident, because to have a quiet place to relax with his wife Amphitrite.

 

• Serifos

Serifos is a Greek island in the western Cyclades. It is located 74 miles from Piraeus islands between Kythnos and Sifnos. The area of the island is 73 square kilometers. Serifos combines exceptional beauty and provides many sunny beaches with crystal clear and transparent water. The beach Psili Amos was even awarded for the best European beach in 2003. The picturesque town of Chora overlooks the harbor and attracts attention with its fossil mines. The land on this island are rich in minerals. Serifos was an important economic center in the last century for its mines, but today they are exhausted after deposits. Traces of mining will be found in various places, including in a small museum with monument.

In ancient times Serifos was inhabited by Ionians. In ancient Greek myths and legends the island is mentioned as the place where the sea throws a little Danae Perseus. Serifos is partner with Athens and starred in the wars with the Persians. Crusaders conquered the island in 1204, Turks in 1537 which had rule until the liberation in 1821.

This post appeared first on The cultural heritage of the islands of Paxos and Serifos.