Samothraki

Samothraki has a very ancient history that emerges from myths and the civilizations of ancient Europe. The first inhabitants of Samothraki were the Thracians, an ancient cultural group that inhabited the area around the 2nd millennium BCE. The most well-known archaeological site in Samothraki is the Sanctuary of the Great Gods, also known as the Sanctuary of the Cabeiri. The sanctuary includes the famous statue of the Winged Victory of Samothrace, depicting a female figure standing on a ship, and is considered one of the masterpieces of ancient sculpture.

Samothraki also had a flourishing city-state known as Palaiopolis, which was founded in the 7th century BCE. Palaiopolis was an important cultural and commercial hub and was renowned for its harbor and the Temple of the Cabeiri. The island was also influenced by various civilizations throughout history, such as the Persians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. These civilizations left their traces on the island through archaeological remains, buildings, and artificial structures.

Today, Samothrace remains an important archaeological destination and a place where visitors can discover the ancient history and culture of the island

Samothraki boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters and unique natural beauty. Some of the best beaches in Samothrace include:

• Pachia Ammos Beach: This beach is located near the port of Kamariotissa and is one of the most popular on the island. It features golden sand and azure waters.
• Kavirnion Beach: Located near the Sanctuary of the Great Gods, this beach is known for its picturesque landscape. The beach has pebbles and clear waters.
• Fouga Beach: This beach is situated in the northern part of the island and is one of the most secluded beaches. It has a rugged beauty with large rocks and turquoise waters.
• Kiosk Beach: Located near the village of Palaiopolis, this beach is a tranquil spot with sandy shores and clear waters. It's ideal for relaxation and seclusion.
• Kato Fanari Beach: Found in the village of Ano Fanari, this small beach has a laid-back atmosphere. It features characteristic cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

These are just a few of the beaches you can enjoy in Samothraki. The island also offers many other beaches and scenic coastlines worth exploring.

Samothraki is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and impressive landmarks. Some of the notable attractions in Samothrace include:

• Sanctuary of the Great Gods: The Sanctuary is an archaeological site of significant historical and religious importance. Here, you can find the famous statue of the Winged Victory of Samothraki.
• Ancient City (Palaiopolis): The ancient city is one of the accessible archaeological sites on the island. You can explore the ruins of ancient buildings and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the past.
• Towers of Samothrace: The towers are impressive Byzantine tower structures that offer stunning views of Samothrace's landscape.
• Archaeological Museum of Palaiopolis: The museum houses a collection of ancient artifacts discovered in Samothrace, including the statue of the Winged Victory of Samothrace.

Folklore Museum: The Folklore Museum in Chora showcases objects and exhibits depicting the island's traditional life and cultural heritage.

These are just a few of the attractions you can visit in Samothraki. However, there are also other unique places and natural landscapes worth discovering during your visit.

Samothraki offers a variety of activities for its visitors. Some of the activities you can enjoy in Samothrace include:

• Hiking and mountaineering: Samothraki is an island with beautiful mountain landscapes and trails that lead to stunning views. You can explore the island's trails and immerse yourself in Samothrace's nature.
• Swimming and water sports: Samothrace boasts gorgeous beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and water activities such as canoeing, diving, and kayaking.
• Exploring archaeological sites: You can visit the Sanctuary of the Great Gods and the ancient city (Palaiopolis) to discover the island's ancient history.
• Village tours: Explore the traditional villages of Samothrace, such as Chora and Kamarotissa, and get to know the local traditions and culture.
• Observing natural beauty: Enjoy the unique natural beauty of Samothraki, including waterfalls, springs, and rivers on the island.
• Gastronomic exploration: Taste the local products and dishes of Samothraki, such as "katoumbi" cheese and honey, and discover the flavors of the local cuisine.

These are just some of the activities you can enjoy during your visit to Samothrace. Remember to confirm the availability and details of each activity before your visit.

To travel to Samothraki, you can use various means of transportation depending on your preferences and capabilities. The most common ways to reach Samothrace are as follows:

• By ferry: You can reach Samothrace by ferry from the ports of Alexandroupoli or Kavala. Most ferry companies offer regular schedules to the island, especially during the summer months. The travel time can range from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the departure point.
• By plane: There is no airport in Samothraki, but you can fly to Alexandroupoli or Kavala airports and then continue your journey by ferry to Samothraki.
• By car: You can reach Samothraki by car, starting from various cities in Northern Greece such as Alexandroupoli, Kavala, or Thessaloniki. You will need to drive to the corresponding port and take the ferry to Samothrace.

It is recommended to check the available transportation options and plan your trip in advance, especially during the summer season.