Patitiri is the main town and the first village you will see when you arrive on the Alonissos. It is situated in the southeast of the island and it is also the largest village, with about 1600 inhabitants. The name Patitiri means "wine press" and the village owes its name to the wine for which the island has been famous since ancient times. The old village or Chora is situated 3 kilometers up the hill. Chora used to be the capital of the island until in 1965 an earthquake destroyed most of the buildings. After that most of the people moved down to the sea to Patitiri.

The capital Chora or Old Alonissos Town on the island of Alonissos in Greece

A lot of the houses in the Chora were rebuild and repaired and it has now become a hotspot for foreigners to buy their second home. From Chora there are beautiful views of the island and the suroundings and it is a good place for watching sunsets. There are some rooms to let, a couple of tavernas and some shops. You can reach Chora by foot (about 25 minutes from Patitiri) or by bus or taxi. In Chora are the remains of a fortress that already had its origin in 2800 BC. Over time the stones were removed by residents and used for the construction of their homes. Some parts remained intact and the fortress was restored in Byzantine times again so that it offered the inhabitants protection from pirate attacks. Then again it fell into decline, but during the Venetian period between 1204 and 1274 the fortress was again repaired by the Venetians. During the Turkish occupation the fortress was almost completely destroyed and the earthquake of 1965 took it a step further. Now there is not really much left of the fortress anymore.

In the old capital of Alonissos there are also three small churches that you might want to go and have a look at (there were originally five, but two have not survived the earthquake of 1965). The largest of the three remaining churches is the Byzantine "Church of Christ". It was built in the 12th century and inside are freso's that date from the 17th century. As a result of the earthquake, there is a crack in one of the walls of this church. The Church of Agios Athanassios is smaller and is located in the fortress of Chora. This church dates from the 12th century. The church houses a 18th century icon that originally hung in the Agios Demetrios Church (this church was destroyed during the earthquake). At the highest point of the village is the picturesque white Church of Agios Georgios. From this point, there is a magnificent view of Alonissos and the surrounding islands. The Church of Agios Georgios houses two icons from the 17th and 18th century.

The history of the island of Alonissos - Archaeological sites

The island of Alonissos was one of the first inhabited islands of Greece. In Greek mythology it was the home of Stafylos ("Grape") who was the son of Ariadne and Dionysus (god of wine). In ancient times the island was called Ikos. Then after the independence war against Turkey all islands were given a Greek name again, the island was accidentally assigned the name of Alonissos. Alonissos was actually the name of what is now the island of Kyra Panagia. Alonissos means something like "island that comes up out of the sea". The Greek "alt" meaning "salt" and nissos means "island". The many shipwrecks dating from the classical and Byzantine period that have been found around the island show that the Alonissos was a major economic power. At the beach of Kokkinokastro lie the remains of the ancient city of Ikos and its burial grounds in the sea. During the Mesolithic period (10000-5000 BC) it was already already here. Even tools from the Old Stone Age have been found. During the classical period (around 500 BC) a wall was built around the city for protection. Those who go snorkeling at Kokkinokastro can still see the remains of this wall in the sea. Tombs and pottery shards have also been found. It is not recommended to go climb the headland from the beach to have a look around because it is dangerous. It is thought that one of the tombs in Kokkinokastro / Ikos is of King Peleus, the father of Achilles. In the classical period, there were two towns on the island. There was Ikos and the other city stood on the spot where now the Chora is situated. There were many vineyards and wine exports was the main source of income for Alonissos. The island was prosperous and there was lot of trade. On the amphorae of the island the name "Ikion" was inscribed. In the vicinity of Alonissos many shipwrecks have been discovered testifying that the island was on an important sea route. Behind the beach of Tsoukalia and in the sea in front of it many potsherds have been found, sometimes bearing the name "Ikion". In the classical period, around 400 BC, there were ovens here where the amphorae were made in which the wine and olive oil of Alonissos was transported. The area behind the beach is now a protected archaeological site. The name Tsoukalia in Greek means "pots". In the beginning of the twentieth century the area behind Tsoukalia Beach was again used for making pots.

At the bottom of the sea in front of the beach of Marpounta the remnants have been found of a temple that was likely dedicated to Aesculapius or Asclepius, the god of medicine, who in Greek mythology was the son of Apollo and Coronis. Today thhe best preserved sanctuary that is dedicated to this god can be found on the island of Kos. At various places there are remnants of churches from the Byzantine period, including a basilica just behind the beach of Agios Dimitrios, and churches near Agios Petros Beach and at Agios Andreas. The beach of Agios Dimitrios takes its name from a monastery that dates from the Byzantine times. It was situated here just above the beach, and it was destroyed by pirates. The remains of a wall and a basilica can still be seen near the main road that runs across the island. Just behind the beach is an area of wetlands where migratory birds make a stop. In the summer this area is dried out. Scattered across the island the remains of settlements and watchtowers have been uncovered. In Agios Yiannis they found an observatory on a hill and a small settlement from the classical period, with a tower that gave views over the island of Alonissos and the strait between Alonissos and the neighboring island of Peristera. In Steni Vala ancient buildings and potsherds have been found. In Garbitsa are the remains of a tower that overlooked the area south of the island, and in Kastraki a fortress with a tower was uncoverd. In the Chora there are 3 Byzantine churches and the remains of the Venetian fortress. In the west of the island at the end of an unpaved road between Megali Ammos and Tsoukalia Beach you find the monastery / Byzantine church of Agioi Anargyroi (the Saints of Anargyroi). Next to the remains of the old monastery a new church has been built. The ancient Byzantine church is quite small and looks more like a house made of stone with a dome on top. It dates from the 13th century. In the extreme north of the island there is the monastery of Analipsi. I have no further information, and do not know if you can reach this monastery on foot from the beach of Gerakas.

You can reach Alonissos by hydrofoil or ferry from Agios Konstantinos, Skopelos, Volos, and Skiathos. Alonissos is the most serene island of the Northern Sporades islands and is not so much affected by tourism, which is growing slowly. The island is known for its natural beauty and its beaches. The beauty of Alonissos is also due to its dense pine forests that cover a large part of the island. Also oak and fruit trees decorate the island. The old Alonissos (the old capital) lies 3 to 4 kilometer from the current capital and is built on top of a hill that offers a beautiful view over the Aegean Sea and the island of Skopelos. The island is known for its beautiful beaches and clear water surrounded by pine trees and beautiful rock formations. It is claimed that the seawater around Alonissos is the cleanest of the Aegean Sea. Most beaches are of natural origin, a few are connected. Some of the more quiet and the naturist beaches can best be reached my boat.

Boat rental on the island of Alonissos - Rent a boat on Alonissos in Greece

Ioanna Athanassiou rents motor boats on the island of Alonissos so you can find your own private beach or explore the surroundings of Alonissos. Telephone: +30 24240 66360 - Mobile: +30 6945667301 - Off season, tel./fax:(+30)210 6397865 Send an e-mail to the boat rental on Alonissos.

The Alonissos Museum in Patitiri on the island of Alonissos in Greece

The Alonissos Museum in Patitiri, founded in 2000 by Kostas and Angela Mavrikis, is the largest privately owned museum on any Greek island. In this four-storey building, Kostas and Angela gave place to the cultural inheritance of the island. In addition to historical items from Alonissos, the museum focuses on weapons and objects used in the early days by the pirates of the Aegean Sea. To complete the image of this beautiful stone-built building, every storey is forseen from marble sculptures and paintings of artists who visited or lived on the island respectively still live there. The conference room on the first floor is an ideal venue for presentations, trainings and meetings. It is available by the hour, half day or full day and can accommodate up to 50 people.Technical staff for the AV-equipment as well as quality catering can be arranged on request. The Museum shop is situated in the hall of the museum and is accessible without having to buy an admission ticket, as it is part of the public area of the museum. The Museum Shop is an ideal place to purchase elegant or original presents. Hours of opening: May and September daily from: 11:00 - 19:00 - June, July and August daily from: 11:00 - 21:00 Phone: +30 24240 66250 - Send an e-mail to the Alonissos Museum.

The Alonissos Traditional House Museum in Chora or Old Alonissos Town

The Alonissos Traditional House Museum is located on the main square in Chora. Here is an old stone house has been completely furnished as it would have been a long time ago, with traditional wooden furniture, utensils and fabrics. On the ground floor you find an exhibition and on the first floor is the impression of a traditional Alonissos house. The entrance to the museum is free.

Accommodations on the island of Alonissos in Greece - Hotels, apartments, studios, villas and holiday houses

There is a good choice in all kinds of accommodations on the island of Alonissos, from simple rooms up to luxury villas. Most accommodations can be found around the harbour in the village of Patitiri and in neighbouring villages with beaches, some are in the capital Chora, but there are also some more remote choices. For all hotels, apartments, studios and villas on Alonissos - click here.

Ikion Eco Boutique Hotel in Patitiri on the island of Alonissos in Greece

Here we stayed in May 2014 and we thought it was fantastic. The hotel is within walking distance of the port of Patitiri with its taverns, shops and beach, but it is still very quiet. Roussom Gialos beach is also within walking distance. Hostess Gianna Anasthasiou and her husband are very hospitable and nice. They picked us up at the ferry and we were welcomed with a delicious drink. The rooms were spotless and stylish and luxuriously furnished with a very comfortable bed, a mini fridge, a beautiful bathroom with all kinds of toiletries and a balcony with nice seats. The breakfast was also wonderful with lots of local and fresh products. You could pass on the evening before what you would like to eat the next morning. In short: there was nothing to complain about and I can recommend it to everyone. Ikion Hotel is built in Patiri, Alonissos, in the lush green area of Cavos, in walking distance from the sea, the port and the small beach of Patitiri. As one of the most modern hotels on Alonissos, Ikion is the ideal choice for a relaxing, carefree vacation. On the hotel's ground level and in its lovely garden you can enjoy breakfast or coffee with the owners friendly care and service. Internet access for all hotel guests is free of charge and available in all areas on the hotel's premises. The hospitable family enviroment will immediately make you feel at home and will make your stay on Alonissos unforgettable. The rooms are cleaned every day and you can eat from the floor if you want to, it's that clean.

Ikion hotel is comprised of 13 luxurious, fully equipped rooms of which 4 are suites / family rooms. All units are air-conditioned and feature a multitude of amenities. In the spacious lounge on the ground floor of the hotel you can enjoy your breakfast with the friendly service of the Ikion staff. You can choose your (wonderful!!) breakfast and the time you would like to have it the day before. Telephone: +30 24240 66360 - Mobile: +30 6945667301 Send an e-mail to the Ikion Hotel on Alonissos. Check availability and prices & book the Ikion Hotel - click here.

Paradise Hotel in Alonissos Town on the island of Alonissos in Greece

The Paradise Hotel is just a 5 minute walk from the port, the shops, the taverns and the centre of town. It is small, family run hotel with personal service making you feel like you're part of our family! The Paradise Hotel is sheltered from the harbour noises of ferries and hydrofoils. The Paradise Hotel is surrounded by pine trees and flower borders and is perched right above a rocky beach which is ideal for sunbathing, diving, swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the Aegean. The Paradise Hotel has 31 rooms, 13 double and 18 twin bedded. The rooms are attractively furnished and comfortable with private toilet facilities, direct dial telephone, balcony, airoconditioner, minibar, safety deposit boxes to rent and most rooms have sea views facing the crystal clear waters of the Aegean. Check availability and prices & book the Paradise Hotel - click here.

Traditional Stone Houses - Villas and studios for rent on the island of Alonissos

Traditional Houses Near The Sea is located on the bay of Agios Petros in Alonnisos, 8 km from the port of Patitiri. It offers spacious studios and villas, all with beautiful views and kitchen facilities. The charming complex is built in a private property of 12,000 square metres, which includes an orchard with fruit trees, almond trees and olive trees. Each self-catering studio at the Traditional Houses Near The Sea has a balcony or terrace with sea or garden view. Towels and bed sheets are changed twice per week. The property is accessed via private road and has parking facilities. Guests who own private boats can anchor them in the bay, which is visible from their private balconies. Check availability and prices & book the Traditiona Stone Houses in Alonissos - click here.

© Hans Huisman, https://www.angelfire.com/super2/greece/ 2018