Amorgos Greece - Travel and Tourist Information

About Amorgos, Greece

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Amorgos is an island in the Cyclades group. Because of Amorgos’ location opposite the ancient beaches of Ionian towns including Militos and Ephesos, the island of Amorgos was one of the first place the Ionians would pass through to get to the Greek mainland.

During the Archaic Greece period, there were three independent city-states on the island. It’s thought they each had their own autonomous constitutions, but shared the same currency. The island of Amorgos is distinguished by the size of the walls that surround the city of Arkesini, the ruins of the ancient towers that can be found all over the island, the ancient tombs, and many other antiquities.

During the Early Cyclade period, approximately twelve separate inhabited settlements are known to have existed. Many Dokathismata-style figurines dating from 2400 – 2100 BC. were found on the island of Amorgos. These Cycladic sculptures were discovered at various cemeteries. Kapsala Cycladic figurines dating from around 2700 BC have also been found. These are the earliest figurines to be found that are “canonical” types or reclining women with folded arms. It’s typical for these figurines to have elongated and slender proportions.

During the Classical period, around 630 BC, the poet Semonides led the foundation of a Samian colony on Amorgos. In the Periplus of Pseudo-Scylax it is referred to as Tripolis. The Periplus of Pseudo-Scylax is an ancient Greek periplus that describes the sea route around the Mediterranean and Black Sea.

The island of Amorgos was hit by a large earthquake on July 9th, 1959. The earthquake would generate a tsunami that was up to 30 meters. Fifty-three people were killed and one hundred more were injured.

Administrative Region for Amorgos Island, Greece

South Aegean

Area of Amorgos Island, Greece

126.35 km2 (48.78 sq mi)

Population of Amorgos Island, Greece

1,973

Top Attractions in Amorgos Island, Greece

Monastery of Hozoviotissa – Located in Chora. This monastery was constructed in the 11th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Built on the slopes of a rock, it provides an impressive view of the sea.
Ancient Minoan Settlement of Amorgos – Located in Katapola, the ruins of an ancient Minoan civilization sit on Moundoulia Hill. Dates back to the 10th century BC. Features Hellenistic temple. Geometric sanctuary, and gymnasium-type building.
Venetian Castle – This castle is located on a rock above Chora. Built during medieval times. Within the castle walls there are some well-preserved churches.
Agia Anna Beach – Just 3 km from Chora and a 20 minute walk from the Monastery of Hozoviotissa. This pebbled beach has deep blue, crystal clear water. A non-organized beach that is nudist friendly.
Aegiali Beach – This long and sandy beach is 20 km from Chora. Soft sand, seaweed, crystal waters, and surrounding green landscape are features of this beach. Cafes and taverns line the beach and there is a diving club on site.
Gavras Tower – An important Venetian site in Chora that is found close to the castle. Built around the 16th century. The castle houses the Archaeological Collection of Amorgos.
Monastery of Theologos – A one-hour hike from Lagada. The monastery is located in an isolated area with a lot of nature surrounding it. The monastery dates to the 7th century and is the oldest on the island.
Agios Georgios Valsamitis – Located between Chora and Kamari. This church was built in the 18th century and dedicated to Agios Georgios Valsamitis. The location of this church provides a lovely view of the sea.
Finikes Beach – This beach can be found within walking distance from the port of Katapola, just 7 km west of Chora. The beach is non-organized and secluded. The view and surrounding cliffs make this beach a spot to visit.
Nikouria Beach – This beach can be found opposite another beach, Agios Pavlos Beach. This beach is at a small uninhabited island, making it secluded and nudist friendly. The beach is pebbled and the water is calm.