Greek island of Milos

Milos (also called Melos) is one of several Cycladic islands. Milos is famous for the statue of Aphrodite, which was found here during archaeological excavations and now adorns the Louvre. The island is located in the southwestern part of the Cyclades, south of Serifos and Sifnos and northwest of Santorin. The rocks of Milos have become works of art in themselves, the peaceful shores, the fabulous caves, the colorful rocks and the delightful sandy beaches are extraordinary picturesque paintings. Rocks are abundant on the island.

The total area of the island is 151 square kilometers, the population of Milos is over 5000 people. Milos is connected to Piraeus by ferries and has air links with Athens.

Milos was the first island of the Cyclades to be inhabited. This is evidenced by the worked pieces of obsidian, a black stone, and Neolithic ruins found near the village of Philakopi. Obsidian resembles glass and was used for weapons, tools and labor.

Milos was a significant center of ancient Cycladic culture. After the Peloponnesian War, Milos was ravaged by the Athenians in retaliation for the pro-Spartan views of the inhabitants. All the men were exterminated and the women and children were sold into slavery.

Once again Milos reached prosperity in the Hellenistic era, when here was created, among other works of art, the famous statue of Athena.

Milos was an early convert to Christianity. More than two thousand Christians are buried in the well-known Catacombs of Milos.

In 1207 the island was captured by the Venetians, in 1580 - the Turks. And before the establishment of Turkish slavery, the island was seized by pirates. The liberation of the island and the reunification of Milos with Greece takes place in 1832.

The modern capital of Milos is Plaka, one of the most picturesque villages of the Cyclades. Here you can watch the most enchanting sunsets on the Aegean Sea.

For tourists will be interesting to visit the Archaeological Museum with a plaster cast of the statue of Aphrodite, the Castle of the Franks, standing above the Church of Our Lady of Thalassitra, the Ethnographic Museum. These sights are characterized by luxurious architecture. The Sikia Cave, the most picturesque of the sea caves of Milos, located in the southwest, is also worth a visit. Sikia has delightful colors and shades and can be accessed from the sea or the monastery of St. John.

On Milos, you can rest your body and soul, breathe in the fresh sea scents and bring back an unforgettable experience.