If you are a fan of Luc Besson’s “The Big Blue”, you are probably aware that some of the most impressive scenes of the movie are shot in Agia Anna and Kalotaritissa bay in Amorgos Island. Being one of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades and one of the trendiest destinations, Amorgos lays on the eastern side of the Aegean Sea, mountainous and sandy.
Amorgos Historical Sights
Like most of the Greek Islands, the historical and archaeological heritage of Amorgos is invaluable. The Byzantine Monastery of Panagia Chozoviotissa is the island’s trademark. Built into a Cliffside, the monastery stands at a 300m above the level of the sea into an abyss, unreachable and daunting. Built in 1088 with a unique ecclesiastical architecture and renovated by the Byzantine emperor Alexios I Komnenos, the Monastery is dedicated to the icon of the Virgin Mary. For those who want to visit the Monastery of Panagia Chozoviotissa, it is a 6-hour walk to follow Virgin Mary’s trail through Amorgos’ old paths. The Monastery is visible only from the sea. But once you are there, and if you have watched “The Big Blue”, you will feel a part of it; like you are a part of the big blue sea opening in front of you, free and fearless under the Greek sun.
One of the best sights in Amorgos is the Gavras Tower that hosts the island’s Archaeological Collection of excavated artifacts from the island area. Situated in the highest point of Chora, the capital of Amorgos, the Gavras Tower is a magnificent Venetian structure of the 16th century. Rising out of the mountains as the keeper of the Chora, the Venetian Castle (the Kastro) is 210 feet tall. Agios Georgios Valsamitis is a magnificent monastery in Kato Meria, surrounded by dense vegetation. Situated at the entrance of the castle, Agios Georgios Valsamitis is a must-see as it is one of the oldest churches of Amorgos with a unique architecture.
Another impressive sight of Amorgos is Kato Lakkos, the Medieval Cistern that the island’s population used in the early Byzantine era for the supply of water. Moreover, the ruins of the Hellenistic Towers in Arkesini are considered as the most significant monument of antiquity. Since the 4th century BC, the Hellenistic Tower was used for the protection of the fertile areas of the island as it had a plumbing system and a water reservoir.
In Amorgos, you may also find several wonderful churches and sights that are worth visiting. Agia Triada church hangs on the cliff like Panagia Chozoviotissa but is smaller. Situated near Lagada village is a must-see for its wonderful view on the Aegialis Valley. The Church of Panagia Katapoliani in Katapola, the main port of Amorgos, cannot be missed. Finally, the ruins of Ancient Minoa disclose proof of important activity in the island during prehistoric times.
Amorgos Beautiful Beaches
As any Greek island, Amorgos has wonderful beaches that can satisfy any taste. Sandy, cliffy, or rocky beaches are ready to host hundreds of visitors every summer for enjoying endless hours of swimming in clear waters.
Some of the most popular beaches around Aegiali Cove are Chochlakas, Levrossos, Psili Ammos and Fokiotrypa. If you are into nudism, at Levrossos Beach you will feel like at home as it is a very trendy nudist beach in Amorgos. Other beautiful beaches are the pebbly beaches of Kato Kambos Bay, Mouros and Agia Anna, the beach that was chosen for “The Big Blue” because of its crystal-clear waters and its magnificent setting. Beautiful sandy beaches are Paradissia, Katapola, Agios Pavlos, Kalotaritissa Bay, Finikies and Agii Saranta.
Amorgos Nightlife and Accommodation
Nightlife in Amorgos can meet a wide variety of tastes. In the island you can find restaurants and tavernas where you can taste great local delicacies; cafes where you can enjoy the view in the big blue sea; bars and clubs where you can listen to music, dance, have a drink and socialize with wonderful people.
Accommodation on Amorgos is well-organized including hotels, pensions, apartments and studios to rent.
Overall, Amorgos is one of the best Greek islands for summer holidays combining beautiful scenery, historical sites and exciting beaches. For any type of traveler, Amorgos is the perfect place to be with its beautiful archaeological legacy and picturesque scenery.
Sources:
http://www.greeka.com/cyclades /amorgos/index.htm
http://www.united-hellas.com/t ourism/amorgos/index.htm
Written by Christina Pomoni
Investment Advisor – Freelancer Writer