The largest Greek islands
Greece is a typical island country. Off the mainland, it includes about three thousand islands, of which only 167 are inhabited. Each of their corners tempts with diversity and a specific climate.
I invite you to an overview of the five largest Greek islands!
Crete
Crete is the largest island of Greece and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. For centuries, it was somewhat separated from the mainland and has remained so until today. Its distinctiveness can be noticed already at the linguistic level – the Cretans use a dialect. The capital of the island is Heraklion, the larger cities are also Chania and Rethymno. The Cretan climate is shaped by the Mediterranean sun on the one hand, and the hot wind from North Africa on the other. Tourists are attracted by beautiful beaches and natural wealth as well as relics of the island’s former glory. After all, it is the Cretan (Minoan) civilization, developing thousands of years ago, that left behind great monuments of material culture
Euboea
Euboea, with the Greek name Evia, is the second island of this country. It has a definitely different character than Crete. Mass tourism has not developed here, and it is not such a popular tourist destination. The island lies very close to the eastern coast of mainland Greece, not far from Athens or Delphi. As a result, in the eyes of tourists, Euboea does not seem to be a separate area, but a component of the country. Its location is a great advantage, thanks to which it is possible to visit the most immortal monuments of antiquity. The capital of the island is the city of Chalcis. It is not difficult to reach the island – only a narrow isthmus separates it from the mainland. It is an agricultural area where olive groves, farmland and vineyards create a beautiful landscape. And all this is reflected in the blue of the Aegean Sea. The capital of the island is the city of Chalcis. It is not difficult to reach the island – only a narrow isthmus separates it from the mainland. It is an agricultural area where olive groves, farmland and vineyards create a beautiful landscape. And all this is reflected in the blue of the Aegean Sea
Lesvos
Lesvos is the perfect island to explore by scooter. Then you can see its full color. This Greek island is already within the Asian continent, which gives it a bit of an oriental flavor. Only a small isthmus of the sea separates it from the Turkish coast. First of all, it is known for its natural attractions, headed by the largest one – the Petrified Forest, belonging to the global network of geoparks. It has a strongly developed shoreline, which makes water sports enthusiasts come here willingly, in search of the best winds. Mytilene is the most populous city of Lesbos. Its history dates back to ancient times, when it was one of the most important ports in this region of the world
Rhodes
Rhodes is the second most visited island after Crete. No wonder, after all, it is the island of the sun, whose symbol is the wonderful climate and the god Helios. However, it became famous thanks to the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. In ancient times, it greeted travelers entering the port. There are many places worth seeing on the island. Certainly one of them is the city of Rhodes, with a beautiful old town and an interesting archaeological museum. The ruins of Lindos were once a bustling hub on the island. The temples of Athena Lindia, the Acropolis and the Propylaea can still be seen here. A natural attraction is the Butterfly Valley, where among the lush greenery you can enjoy the view of colorful insects
Chios
Chios in ancient times was one of the most significant islands. Its wealth came from extensive trade. The development of the island was hampered by the events of the 19th and 20th centuries, when there was a Greek struggle for independence and an earthquake, the effects of which were felt by the inhabitants for many years. Currently, tourism is developing intensively in Chios, thanks to which it is reliving its moments of glory. Chios is the largest city of the entire island. Numerous memorabilia from the Byzantine period and the Turkish rule over these areas have been preserved there. An attraction that certainly cannot be missed during your stay on the island are the Tears of Chios, i.e. traditional methods of harvesting mastic, a special tree resin. In addition, it will be an amazing visual and culinary experience to visit the island’s numerous small towns with their discreet charm.
Author:
Kinga Owczarek
ZSCKP w Sochaczewie
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