Visit the Windmills of Mykonos
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Mykonos is one of the most popular islands for tourism in all of Greece. People come here for all kinds of reasons, but mostly, they’re looking to relax and unwind in a beautiful setting. Mykonos is known for its beaches, nightlife, and multiple resorts and there really is something here for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a place to party, or you’re with your whole family, the island won’t disappoint.
While here, you will probably notice that the island has some unique things to experience. The scenery here is beautiful, but the thing that will make your vacation photographs even more interesting are the many windmills that are located throughout the island. Although there are windmills scattered throughout Greece, there are a lot concentrated to this island and you should definitely seek them out. Here’s more information:
Getting to Mykonos
Before you can visit with the island’s windmills, you need to first get to Mykonos. Because this is such a popular island, there is an airport here. You can also arrive here by sea. Besides the fact that Mykonos is also on several ferry routes, this is also a stop for cruise ships. The island is a popular port of call for yachts. Once you get to Mykonos and get settled in your hotel or resort, you can seek out the various windmills. They are located throughout the island, but there are a lot that are concentrated in the main town on Mykonos, referred to as Chora or Mykonos Town.
About the Windmills
Although the windmills do make for some beautiful photo opportunities, there was a time that they had a practical purpose. The windmills themselves have their origins in the 1500’s, but most of the ones that are still standing today were built much later. They were originally built by the Venetians, who occupied the island in the 16th Century A.D. Right now, there are a total of 16 windmills that are still standing today. Back then, the primary purpose for these windmills was to mill wheat that grew on the island. The wind power turned the mechanism that enabled them to work. Today, the windmills really aren’t in use, but they sure are pretty.
Where to View the Mykonos Windmills
It is interesting to note that the windmills are so common on the island that you can view them from many angles. Here’s an overview of your best places:
- Mykonos Town. You can see them from nearly every vantage point in Mykonos Town. In general, all you need to do is walk around and you’re sure to see some of them. The ones located on the beach are iconic and make for a great photo opportunity, especially at sunset.
- Harbor of Alefkandra. Another place where the windmills are especially visible is on the Harbor of Alefkandra. Be sure to snap a few pictures as you approach if you are headed to Mykonos by boat.
While on Mykonos, you won’t want to miss the chance to visit with some of the windmills and to also snap a few memorable photographs of them.
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Categorized in: About Mykonos, Greece, Greek Travel Guide
This post was written by Greek Boston
