Attractions to See in Skyros, Greece
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The Greek island of Skyros is the largest of the Sporades. The island is located near the center of the Aegean Sea, distanced from the mainland and the other islands. Skyros, Greece features sandy beaches, rugged coastlines, and pine forests. In addition to its natural beauty, Skyros is home to some attractions that you won’t want to miss.
Archaeological Museum of Skyros
Located in Chora next to Brook Square, the Archaeological Museum of Skyros showcases the findings of the island. The two halls of this museum present findings dating from the Early Hellenic period (2800 – 1900 BC) to the Roman period (1 BC). There is also a collection of ceramics from the Mycenean period (1600 – 1100 AD) that were found in different areas of the island. There is also a collection of ceramics that were found in Skyros Town and Palamari that date back to 2800 – 1900 AD. Other exhibits at the Archaeological Museum of Skyros include coins, jewelry, and pitchers.
Castle of Skyros
Located at the highest point of Skyros is the Castle of Skyros. The castle was built during the Byzantine years for the protection of the island from pirate invasions. The castle of Skyros is divided into two levels. The St. George Monastery that was built in 663 AD occupies one level and the second level includes the temple of Episkopi, which was built in 895 AD.
The castle also features post-Byzantine temples and medieval water reservoirs. In 2001, an earthquake hit Skyros damaging the castle. It was closed for a number of year to complete restorations and has been re-opened to the public. The castle offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Tomb of Rupert Brooke
Rupert Chawner Brooke (1887 – 1915) was an English poet who was known for his war sonnets that were written during the First World War. Rupert Brooke joined the Royal Navy when World War I was declared. This is when he wrote his well-known poem “The Soldier.” In April of 1915, the ship Brooke was on arrived at the Aegean Sea and waited at Tris Boukes Bay waiting for permission to sail on to Gallipoli.
On the 20th of April, Brooke and friends would visit the olive groves around Tris Boukes Bay. That evening, Brooke came down with sepsis. He would pass aay on April 23rd. He was buried at the olive groves they had visited days before. Brooke’s Square is named after the poet and there is a monument dedicated to him overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Churches of Skyros, Greece
The island of Skyros is home to a few churches. The Church of Agios Ermolaos is on an islet across from the Chapel of Agios Nikolaos. The Chapel of Agios Nikolaos is an impressive church with a blue door. This chapel has a collection of ecclesiastical icons. The Church of Agios Mammas is at the top of Mount Kohylas near the beach of Kalamitsa. Sitting on the slopes of the west side of Skyros is the church of Agios Panteleimonas.
Skyros, Greece is home to some beautiful and historical attractions for visitors to see.
Categorized in: About Skyros, Greece, Greek Travel Guide
This post was written by Greek Boston
