Nisyros

Nisyros has a long history. Evidence of Neolithic settlements dating back to the 5th millennium BCE has been discovered on the island. In particular, during the 4th millennium BCE and the 12th-13th centuries CE, the island experienced a period of prosperity. Towards the end of the 19th century, the population of Nisyros reached approximately 5,000 inhabitants.

The Roman period left behind baths and remnants of baths and cisterns, which still exist today outside of Paloi. During the early Byzantine period, a large number of churches were built, some of whose ruins are still preserved. From the 11th to the 15th century, the Venetians prevailed in Nisyros and constructed the eponymous castle in Mandraki. After the fall of Constantinople, Nisyros fell victim to pirate raids and the Turks. At the end of the 15th century, the island was completely abandoned and in 1522, it was subjugated to the Ottomans. The special regime imposed on the Dodecanese allowed Nisyros to develop significantly during this period. In 1912, it came under Italian occupation, and on March 7, 1948, it was incorporated into Greece, along with the rest of the Dodecanese.

• Chochlaki is a beach in Mandraki, Nisyros, located right behind the rock of Panagia Spiliani. Following the coastal road, you will reach Agios Savvas, where you can enjoy swimming and then relax with a drink or a meal.
• Next to the fishing village of Paloi is the beach with the same name, which has sand and tamarisk trees. After Paloi, you'll find the beaches of Lyès, which have dark sand and pebbles.
• After Lyès, there is a path that leads to Pachia Ammos beach, considered the most beautiful beach on the island and in recent years used for free camping.
• In the southern and western part of the island, there are impressive lava formations that steeply descend into the sea, creating two small coves at Avlaki and Agia Irini.
• Additionally, there are fantastic beaches on the islet of Agios Antonios, next to Gyali, as well as on Gyali itself.

• The volcano of Nisyros is the youngest active volcano in Greece. Two massive eruptions, around 25,000 and 15,000 years ago, destroyed the central part of the volcano, causing it to collapse and form the current volcanic caldera. Since then, the volcano has remained quiet.
• The Monastery of Panagia Spiliani is located on a tall cliff in the Castle of Mandraki. According to myth, around 1400 BC, a farmer discovered a small icon of Panagia (the Virgin Mary), which he transferred to the temple of Panagia Potamitissa. However, after a few days, the icon disappeared and was later found in a cave at the top of a large rock. The locals returned the icon to the temple, but the incident repeated itself.
• The Paliokastro is the fortification of the ancient city of Nisyros and is one of the best-preserved fortifications in the Aegean region. The ancient city was built at least from the 8th century BC on top of the current settlement of Mandraki. The walls, as preserved today, date back to the 4th century BC.
• The Museum of Volcanoes is located in the village of Nikia and is the first and only volcanological museum in Greece to this day. The museum includes exhibition spaces with rocks from Nisyros as well as other volcanoes, and informative displays.

These are some of the attractions you can visit in Nisyros. The island also offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, traditional villages, and rich gastronomy. It's worth exploring the island's abundant natural and cultural heritage.

• It's worth taking a tour around the island to enjoy the mesmerizing sea caves and secluded beaches. You can swim and appreciate their turquoise waters and stunning natural beauty.
• Additionally, you could participate in one of the island's festivals, where you'll have the opportunity to experience the folk culture through traditional costumes, dances, and songs. One notable event is the summer traditional wedding, a three-day celebration open to all visitors of Nisyros.
• Furthermore, you can explore the nearby islets such as Agios Antonios, Strongyli, Pacheia, Pernousa, and Kandelousa (Pharos). Each island has its own unique charm, and you can enjoy their beautiful beaches and picturesque landscapes.
• Lastly, you can hike the trail from the Monastery of Evangelistria to Prophet Elias, the highest point on the island (698 meters). This route takes about 60 minutes and is easy for the majority of it. Enjoy an incredible panoramic view of the Aegean as you walk along this beautiful path.