Exploring Less Traveled Routes in Paros, Greece, Guided by Discover Greece
Discovering the Charm of Paros, Greece
Nestled in the heart of the Cyclades archipelago, the picturesque island of Paros offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Known for its pretty villages adorned with white buildings and blue trim, Paros has a rich history dating back to Ancient Greece. The island was a hub of cultural activity, having been occupied by the Venetians, raided by pirates, and showcasing some of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece.
Historical Sites
One of the most notable attractions is the Panagia Ekatontapyliani (Church of the Hundred Doors) in Parikia. This Byzantine church complex, dating back to the 4th century, is one of the oldest churches in Greece and a significant Marian pilgrimage site in the Aegean. The Archaeological Museum of Paros, also located in Parikia, houses artifacts spanning from the Neolithic period onward, providing rich historical context about the island’s long history.
Lefkes Village, the traditional heart of Paros, is home to several sites that reflect the island’s Byzantine and post-Byzantine heritage. Notable sites include the churches of Agios Panteleimonas and Agios Konstantinos, the Mavrogenous Fountains, and small chapels scattered throughout the village.
Nature and Sustainability
The Environmental Park of Paros, spanning over 800 hectares, is a protected area and a haven for over 6000 indigenous plant species. The park hosts a new planting campaign each year, with fig trees being the latest addition. A small bay at the entrance to the park is a popular beach among local families.
Paros is also known for its Parian marble, which was used for many ancient Greek statues. Arsenis Delicatessen, a sustainable, organic grocery store in Isterni, showcases the best products of Paros, including Parian marble items.
Cultural Experiences
The Environmental Park of Paros is home to an amphitheatre, an outdoor cinema, and a beach-side restaurant, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in local culture. The lively square in Naoussa, surrounded by restaurants, is an ideal place to eat like a local in Paros. Ouzeri ton Naftikon, a family-run restaurant in Naoussa, is a popular spot for local fishermen to dine.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the works of Nikos Perantinos, an acclaimed sculptor, left in Marpissa, Paros. For wine connoisseurs, Moraitis Winery, founded in 1910, is one of the most prestigious wineries on Paros. Many of Moraitis Winery's wines have won numerous awards.
Paros, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, serves as the gateway for island hopping tours in Greece’s Cyclades region. A visit to Paros offers a truly unforgettable experience for any traveler seeking to explore the wonders of Greece.
[1] Paros Travel Guide [2] Archaeological Museum of Paros [3] Environmental Park of Paros [4] Panagia Ekatontapyliani [5] Lefkes Village
- For those interested in food-and-drink, a visit to Ouzeri ton Naftikon in Naoussa is a must, offering an authentic dining experience that's beloved by local fishermen.
- To get a taste of the local lifestyle, consider exploring the lively square in Naoussa, surrounded by various restaurants where you can dine like a local in Paros.
- For art enthusiasts, a trip to Marpissa, Paros, provides the opportunity to admire the works of acclaimed sculptor Nikos Perantinos.
- Home-and-garden enthusiasts can enjoy the Environmental Park of Paros, a protected area with over 6,000 indigenous plant species, including the new addition of fig trees.
