The ancient Greek civilisation has been hailed as the peak of humanity. Art, literature, philosophy, and architecture, all flourished in ancient Greece. So much so, that modern life, to a very large extent is still inspired by Greek ideas. Among its many influential aspects, perhaps, one of the most influential is its mythology. Ancient Greece does not exist anymore, but perhaps, you may still find remnants of the bygone era in these destinations in Greece.
10 Greece Destinations That Are A Must-Visit
1. Santorini Island
According to legend, it is believed that the island of Santorini and its design is inspired by the lost kingdom of Atlantis. Furthermore, it is also believed that the island was created by Poseidon’s son Euphemus who was trying to protect one of his nymphs who was pregnant. The sapphire-blue waters and pristine white buildings make for a memorable view that everyone must witness at least once in their life.
2. Ikaria
If you’re a Greek mythology aficionado, the name Ikaria will ring a bell. And if you’re thinking of an overambitious boy and an unfortunate father, you’re on the right track. The island is named after the mythical figure, Icarus. Legend has it that his body was buried on this island and that’s where the island gets its name.
According to the myth, Icarus fell to his death when he, along with his father Daedalus, flew from prison to escape. Perhaps that’s why there seems to be a poignant beauty that envelops the island. It is one of the lesser-known islands but is a must-visit.
3. Syros
This lesser-known island should be on your list for many reasons. One of them is in the capital of this island, which is Ermoupolis, there lies a chapel unlike any other in the world. Agios Stefanos is built inside a cave and it is absolutely breathtaking. The origin of the unusual structure is also very interesting. It is said that it was built by a fisherman as a tribute to the gods after he was saved from a giant octopus attack.
4. Mykonos
When you visit Mykonos, its beauty and splendour will seem so arresting that you’ll find it hard to believe that this once used to be a battlefield! According to legends, Mykonos was where Zeus defeated the Titans, the great race of gods who ruled everything. The giant boulders that you’ll see dotting the landscape of the island, are said to be the petrified corpses of those giants.
5. Milos
If you love Greek history as well as scenic views, this place is for you! The two iconic statues, Venus De Milo and Ascelepius of Melo were both found on this island. This makes it obvious that the island has a rich historical background. This makes it perfect for all you history nerds out there!
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6. Corfu
Also known as Kerkyra, the views of the sea that this island offers, set it apart from all the other Greek Islands in the Aegean sea. This may be because its history is deeply connected to the Greek god of the sea, Poseidon. According to legends and myths, Poseidon fell in love with Korkyra, the daughter of a river. He abducted her and brought her to this island. As a tribute to his love, he named the island after her.
7. Naxos
This island has a lot of mythology surrounding it. And when you do visit the place, you feel it in the air. It is said that the cave in which Zeus took birth is on this island. And not just that, it is also believed that after helping the Minotaur escape from the labyrinth, Ariadne was abandoned on this island.
8. Zakynthos
Named after the son of the Arcadian chief Dardanus, this island is also one of the lesser-known ones. It is so beautiful that the island was nicknamed the “flower of the Levant” by Venetians.
9. Crete
Crete is the most heavily populated and largest island in the archipelago of islands in the Aegean sea. It has no shortage of places to visit and things to see so this is an island that you absolutely must not miss.
10. Paros Island
Located towards the west of Naxos, this island is known for its pristine white marble. The architecture here that is made from its distinctive marble is definitely worth seeing. It is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.
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Which of these mystical islands do you plan on visiting first? Don’t forget to tell us about your experience in the comments below!
Cover Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons
First Published: February 23, 2023 7:27 PM