Psara
Historical island. Birthplace of Konstantinos Kanaris and Dimitris Papanikolis. Psara is a unique settlement on the island, with low houses distinguished by a different architecture, stretching around the harbor. This settlement is located in the southern part of Psara and has been built amphitheatrically around the central harbor.
History of Psara
The Destruction of Psara during the Greek Revolution became a subject of commemoration by Greece's national poet, Dionysios Solomos, and was depicted in a painting by the famous Greek artist Nikolaos Gyzis. The island played a significant role in the Greek War of Independence in 1821, as it was the third most important naval power in the struggle, after the islands of Hydra and Spetses. Two remarkable figures, Kanaris and Pipinos, played central roles as naval leaders in the fight for Greek independence. Kanaris later served as the Minister of the Navy and Prime Minister of Greece, while Pipinos is known as one of the most famous heroes of the Greek Revolution.
The destruction of Psara, including the Holocaust of 1824, caused turmoil throughout Europe and had significant repercussions on the Greek struggle for independence. This event changed the stance of European powers towards Greece's fight for independence.
Beaches in Psara
- Katouni: The most popular beach in Psara, located on the eastern side of the village, featuring sandy shores and shallow waters. It is known for the large number of tourists it attracts.
- Agia Kyriaki: This beach is hidden among rocky slopes at the end of Katouni Beach. It is ideal for peaceful swims, offering the feeling of a secluded beach.
- Lazaretta: Psara's most beautiful beach, where you can enjoy the azure waters and golden sands. It is located on the southern side near the harbor.
- Limnos: Situated in the broader Psara port, Limnos Beach offers unforgettable moments. It has thick sand and discrete pebbles and is located 4 kilometers from the settlement.
- Lakka: Lakka Beach provides stunning sunsets with a view of the historic Aï-Nikolaki and the surrounding islets bathed by Lakka's waters. It is located 3 kilometers west of the settlement.
- Archontiki: This beach is just a few meters away from Lakka and is separated from it by a small piece of land. Its crystal-clear waters touch Daskalio and offer a view of the Aegean Sea.
- Kato Gialos: This pebble beach is located between the Black Rock peninsula and Agios Nikolaos. Its clear blue waters offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling, and the view towards Antipsara is impressive and worth a visit.
Sights in Psara
- The archaeological site at Archontiki: It includes a settlement and a cemetery from the Mycenaean period that extends to the sea, with parts of the settlement and cemetery submerged underwater. Archaeological findings from excavations conducted at this site during the 20th century are now preserved in the Archaeological Museum of Chios.
- Mavri Rahi: It is a hill to the west of the port of Psara, with historical and symbolic significance for the island. In 1824, it served as the island's last fortress, equipped with cannons and an ammunition depot. Today, there is a simple monument that honors the self-sacrifice of the Psarian fighters.
- The Temple of Saint Nicholas: It is dedicated to the patron saint of sailors and has impressive dimensions. Construction began in 1785 and was completed in 1793, the year Konstantinos Kanaris was born. The temple was destroyed in 1824 but was rebuilt in 1863 when the Psarians returned to their island after the devastation. It is worth climbing the 60 steps to visit the church, where Kanaris prayed before embarking on his great achievement.
- The Monastery of the Dormition of the Theotokos: Located in the northern part of the island, it is referred to as a cross-shaped church in a document of Ecumenical Patriarch Gregory V (1797). It was destroyed during the total destruction of the island in 1824 but was subsequently reconstructed. Today, it houses ancient icons and also has a significant library with old and handwritten books. Its cathedral follows the so-called Athonite style of church architecture.
Activities in Psara
- Hiking: During your stay in Psara, you have the opportunity to explore the island by taking hiking trails through nature. The paths you will follow will lead you to beautiful chapels and significant historical landmarks of the island. During your hike, it would be important to pay attention to areas that belong to the "Natura 2000" network, as these are habitats of high natural value and require special protection.
- Underwater Fishing: During your stay, you can engage in underwater fishing, as the numerous islets around the island provide rich fishing grounds.
- Sports Activities: For athletes, the island has a 5x5 football field within the settlement, as well as an organized Beach Volleyball court at Katsouni Beach. Every August, a Beach Volleyball tournament is organized by the cultural association "Adelfotita Psarianon," and there is also a football match featuring local teams.