Milos island

General info
Milos is the south-westernmost island of Cyclades cluster, covering 150 square km and having a population of 4,800 residents approximately.

It is an island of unusual beauty, and probably it is not without reason that the famous statue “Aphrodite of Milos” (Venus de Milo,) this unsurpassable ideal of beauty, was inspired and made on this island.

The so-called “island of colours”, is volcanic and rather mountainous, known for its spectacular relief, its mineral wealth and its thermal springs. The astonishing white rock formations of asymmetric shapes and shades - products of the rich volcanic activity in the island during the previous centuries- are pure works of art, proving that nature itself can be the most imaginative sculptor of all.

Yet, Milos’ astounding beauty is not limited to this. Mountains, delightful coves, multicoloured cliffs and dentelated beaches of waters in all shades of blue and green, unfolding in a coastline of 125 km., picturesque villages surrounded by vineyards and valleys of orange, citrus and olive trees compose the magical landscape of this island.
The archaeological monuments which are scattered all over the island, the ancient theatre, the early Christian catacombs, witness to the visitor Milos’ intense historical presence since antiquity.

Having a quite descent tourist infrastructure and an interesting night life, Milos attracts plenty of visitors each year.  If ideal vacation for you is to relax   in amazing beaches under the warm sun, to wander through traditional villages, to explore new places, then definitely Milos is a place you should visit!

Historical profile
The first traits of inhabitation of Milos date back to Mesolithic Period (8th millennium BC).
Due to its natural harbour, its rich subsoil and mainly because it was   the only Greek island which had vast deposits of obsidian, (a hard rock used in the construction of tools and weapons), Milos soon became an important centre of the early Aegean civilization.
Findings that have brought to light during excavations have proved the existence of Mycenaean civilization around 1400 BC. In   1000 BC the island was dominated by the Dorians while in the 4th century BC it came under Macedonian rule. It was at that time that MIlos flourished both economically and culturally and splendid statues such as the Aphrodite of Milos (which is preserved at the Museum of Louvre) and the statue of Neptune (at the National Archaeological Museum) were sculptured.

In the 2nd century BC Milos was conquered by the Romans, while in the 1st century AC Christianity was introduced to the island and the famous catacombs, which initially were used as graves, became a place where the early Christians could safely gather and held their rituals, away from their persecutors.

In the following centuries the island was dominated by the Byzantines, Venetians and Turks. In 1821 Milos was participated in the Greek War of Independence and in 1830 became part of the Greek State. In 1941 it was occupied by the Germans and regained its freedom in 1954.

Villages
Built on the top of the hill and above the port of Adamas (Adamantas) stands Plaka the capital of the island,  offering an astonishing view of Milos’ gulf and also one of the most breathtaking sunsets in Cyclades.   Plaka is a hospitable and picturesque village with white-washed houses, flagstone paved alleys, beautiful shops, traditional taverns and elegant coffee-shops.  It is a gathering place for all ages since it provides a well organized tourist infrastructure yet it has preserved its own unique colour unspoiled.

Just 2 km south to Plaka lays Tripiti (Trypiti), a charming settlement with splendid view to Adamas’ gulf. Windmills, flagstone paths, traditional houses and taverns are its main features while at a near distance are found the famous catacombs and the remains of the ancient theatre.

Klima is located 4 km south to Plaka and it is an idyllic fishing settlement, where colourful houses are built on the waterfront and is surrounded by fine, small beaches and hidden coves.

Beaches
Milos is famous for its stunning beaches of fine sand and crystal clear waters.
On the northen part is distinguished the sandy beach of Sarakiniko, with its excellent emerald waters and its extraordinary white rock formations that led residents to call it “moon-scape”.
On the south the beach of Provatas is an organized sandy beach with clear shallow waters while on the southeast the idyllic beaches of Fyriplaka and Tsigrado are very popular for their turquoise waters and their astonishing scenery.

Access
Access to Milos is easy by sea or by air since there are scheduled trips from Piraeus Port, especially during summer season.  There is also regular connection with the islands of Sifnos, Serifos, Kithnos (kythnos), Santorini, Crete, Rhodes, Folegandros (Pholegandros), Ios, Paros and Syros.

There are as well as regular flights from Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) the duration of which is 30 minutes approximately.