Destination Naxos

Destination Naxos – The Green Pearl of the Cyclades

Naxos! A fascinating island with a rich history and a vibrant contemporary character. Let's dive into the multifaceted story of this Cycladic gem.

Ancient Roots and Mythological Significance

Even in antiquity, Naxos held a significant position in the Aegean. Archaeological finds confirm early settlement dating back to the Neolithic period. However, it is the Bronze Age, particularly the Cycladic civilization, that left impressive traces here. The famous "Cycladic idols," those slender marble figures, were also found on Naxos, testifying to a highly developed culture.

Greek mythology is closely intertwined with Naxos. It is said that the young Zeus grew up in a cave on Mount Zas, the highest mountain in the Cyclades. A particularly well-known legend tells of the tragic love affair between the Cretan princess Ariadne and the Athenian hero Theseus. After Theseus defeated the Minotaur, he fled with Ariadne to Naxos, only to shamefully abandon her there. The god Dionysus found the desperate Ariadne and comforted her by marrying her and giving her a crown of stars. This mythological connection gave Naxos a special aura in antiquity and made it a center of the Dionysian cult.

During the Archaic and Classical periods, Naxos developed into an important maritime power and a flourishing trade center. The island was known for its marble, which was sought after for numerous sculptures and buildings throughout the Greek world. In the 6th century BC, Naxos experienced a golden age under the rule of tyrants like Lygdamis. During this era, impressive structures were built, such as the unfinished gate of the Temple of Apollo on the small island of Palatia in front of the harbor, which is now known as "Portara" and is a landmark of Naxos.

From the Byzantine Empire to Venetian Rule

With the rise of the Roman Empire, Naxos came under Roman rule and later fell within the influence of the Byzantine Empire. During this period, the island experienced a checkered history with various administrative affiliations and recurring pirate attacks, which forced coastal inhabitants inland. Testimonies from this era include Byzantine churches with impressive frescoes that have been preserved in the more remote regions of the island.

A turning point in the history of Naxos was its conquest by the Venetians in the early 13th century during the Fourth Crusade. Marco Sanudo founded the Duchy of the Archipelago with Naxos as its center. Under Venetian rule, the island experienced a new golden age, reflected in its architecture and social structure. The imposing castle (Kastro) in Chora, the island's capital, with its Venetian noble houses and Catholic churches, still shapes the cityscape today. The Venetian presence lasted over three centuries and left deep cultural and administrative traces on the island.

Ottoman Rule and Greek Independence

In the 16th century, the Ottomans conquered Naxos, yet the Venetian aristocracy maintained a degree of autonomy under Ottoman suzerainty. However, living conditions for the Greek population were often difficult, marked by high taxes and repression. Nevertheless, the Naxian population preserved their Greek identity and their Orthodox religion.

In the 19th century, Naxos played an active role in the Greek War of Independence. Numerous Naxians fought for the liberation of Greece from Ottoman rule. After the successful revolution, Naxos became part of the independent Greek state.

Naxos in the 20th Century and the Present

The 20th century brought profound changes for Naxos, as it did for the whole of Greece. The two World Wars and the subsequent political instability shaped the country. In the post-war decades, Naxos experienced a gradual modernization. Agriculture remained the most important economic sector for a long time, but the emerging tourism began to play an increasingly significant role in the 1970s and 1980s.

Naxos Today

Today, Naxos presents itself as an island that harmoniously blends its rich history and natural beauty. The imposing ancient sites, medieval castles, and Byzantine churches stand as silent witnesses to a vibrant past. At the same time, Naxos is a lively and modern island with thriving agriculture, particularly known for its potatoes, wine, and cheese. Tourism has become a significant economic factor, yet it hasn't displaced the island's original character.

Visitors appreciate Naxos's diversity: the long sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, the picturesque mountain villages with their traditional architecture, the fertile valleys, and the imposing mountain landscape. The Naxian hospitality and authentic Greek way of life contribute to visitors feeling welcome and eager to return.

Thus, Naxos tells a continuous story, shaped by ancient myths, medieval rule, and the pursuit of independence, unfolding today in a vibrant present that uniquely combines tradition and modernity.

Here are a few pictures from Naxos:

Naxos Greece

Naxos Greece

Naxos Greece

Naxos Greece

Naxos Greece

Naxos Greece

You can find travel guides for Naxos here on Amazon!*