Amorgos is an island located in the Aegean Sea. It is the easternmost island of the Cyclades archipelago. It is located approximately 30 km southeast of the island of Naxos and 33 km east of the island of Ios. The entire length of the island (33 km) is covered by mountains with steep slopes along the southeastern coast. The highest peak, Krikellos (823 m above sea level), is located in a hard-to-reach rocky mountain range.

The island can be reached from Santorini or Naxos by plane. From here, boats leave daily in high season for the ports of Katapola or Aegiali. There was no road on the island until 1990. The reason for this is the wild and rugged landscape.

The island was originally settled around 330 BC. It is still somewhat neglected by tourists and that is why it offers an authentic Greek landscape, including a rich history. With three important cities, Minoa, Arkenisi and Aegiali, it was one of the most influential centres of Cycladic civilisation. For a long time, the Romans used this place as a place of exile for inconvenient people. After the Romans, the Venetians and then the Turks took over the island. In 1988, the island was made famous by the film "The Big Blue".

On the island you will find many monuments from different historical eras, Byzantine monasteries and remains of ancient settlements. Among the interesting sites is the Byzantine monastery of Chozoviotissa. Many icons and writings are preserved here. Another beautiful monument is the monastery of Agios Georgios Valsamitis, surrounded by lush vegetation.

The most important relic of antiquity is Pyrgos. It is a huge stone tower dating from the 4th century BC. It was formerly used to protect the area, equipped with water reservoirs and drainage systems. Today, it's just a pile of ruins, but it still dominates its surroundings.

Archaeological excavations prove that many centuries ago this island played an important role in Cycladic culture. Much of the excavated finds are housed in the National Museum of Athens.

The island's capital is the city of Amorgos, known as Chora. There are two ports on the island, Katapola and Aegiali, which connect Amorgos with the surrounding islands. This is also where most of the local population lives.

The northern part of the island is great for hiking. The island of Amorgos does not have many easily accessible beaches. This is probably the reason why very few tourists come here. Local attractions include the ruins of the ancient city of Minoa, located on Mountoulia Hill.

The island of Amorgos is an ideal holiday destination for those who want to experience the real Greece, relax and enjoy the beach.

Basic information:

• Greek name: Amorgos, Αμοργός
• Capital: Chora
• Island area: 126 km2