Mar 133 min read

Greek Island, Paros: A Mediterranean Gem Unveiled

Updated: Apr 8

Embarking on a sailing adventure from Paros through the Lesser Cyclades promises a captivating and unique Aegean experience.

Two ladies with their arms in the air, straw hats on their heads on a restaurant deck overlooking the stunning water surrounding Paros Island. — Paros, the gateway to an unforgettable sailing experience...

But first, let's take a peek into the fascinating history of Greece...

Apollo, the Greek god of the arts, sun and medicine, and the typical white and blue of houses and buildings in Greece.

Why are the islands named Cyclades?

The term Cyclades, or "circular islands" in English, relates to the protective setting of the islands around the sacred island of Delos, as the birthplace of the Greek god Apollo.

In ancient Greek mythology, the Cyclades were originally Oceanids, nymphs born to Oceanus and Tethys. In a fit of anger, sea god Poseidon transformed them into rocks in response to their provocation.

And the reason behind the blue and white colors of the Cyclades?

Well, two theories say...

Late 1930s, Greece faced a cholera epidemic and the country's leader, Ioannis Metaxas, then issued a directive requiring all Greek citizens to paint their houses white. The whitewash used for this purpose included limestone and known for its potent disinfectant properties. Its elevated alkalinity plays a crucial role in preventing bacteria and microorganisms to stick to various surfaces, both indoors and outdoors.

And...

The mandatory use of white and blue colors for buildings also took effect in 1967 when, only a week before elections, Greece was overtaken by a military junta. The junta, a right-wing military dictatorship, enforced an order requiring all structures to be painted or repainted in these colors. The regime believed it would foster patriotism and symbolize nationalistic sentiments.

White and blue are also the colors of the Greek flag.

Now let's get underway!

Paros: Gateway to Nautical Paradise

Situated in the heart of the Cyclades island group, Paros seamlessly blends modernity with tradition, offering a unique fusion of Cycladic architecture, vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches, quaint rural villages, and historical landmarks.

Easily accessible by a short ferry ride from Athens, with ports in Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrion, Paros serves as a convenient gateway to popular Cyclades destinations like Heraklia, Schinousa, Koufonisi and Amorgos but also Mykonos, Santorini, and Naxos, making it an ideal starting point for island-hopping adventures.

Greek island Paros with its white and blue buildings and beautiful azure water around it. — Paros with its white and blue houses.

In ancient times, Paros became famous for its prized white marble quarries, yielding the

famed 'Parian marble' highly sought after for its exceptional quality, particularly in architecture and sculpture during the Classical Greek Period.

Left is Nike the Greek Goddess of victory, and right, is the statue of Venus de Milo, carved out of marble from Paros, in the Louvre Museum in Paris. — Left: Nike, the Greek goddess of victory in bronze. Right: Marble statue of Venus in the Louvre.

This translucent, pure white material crafted masterpieces of ancient Greek sculpture, including iconic works like Nike (Winged Victory) of Samothrace and Venus de Milo (Aphrodite of Milos). Discovered on Melos island in the 19th century, the Venus de Milo is hailed as one of the world's supreme sculptural masterpieces, now showcased at the Louvre.

Paros is also renowned for its breathtaking beaches, characterized by their pristine sands, crystal-clear waters, and various amenities.

Stunning beach with white sand, crystal clear water and on the beach are 2 umbrellas covered in palm leaves with blue loungers in their shade. — Beach of Santa Maria, Paros

From the well-known Santa Maria, Golden Beach, and Kolymbithres to secluded coves

providing privacy for those seeking a more intimate beach experience, Paros caters to all preferences.

Kolymbithres beach in Paros with people swimming in the clear blue water and its beautiful boulders. — Kolymbithres beach in Paros with its beautiful boulders..

The vibrant pulse of Paros resonates in its two main villages, Parikia and Naoussa, where the island's nightlife comes alive. With traditional taverns, upscale restaurants, and chic bars, these bustling hubs attract lively crowds, especially during summer nights.

Whitewashed houses with blue doors, overgrown verandas with blue chairs and a Greek church building with blue dome and cross. — The whitewashed architectural style of the houses on the Greek Islands with the Church of Agios Konstantinos in Parikia, Paros

Naoussa is a charming fishing village with its colorful boats and traditional houses lining narrow streets. Don't miss a stroll toward the Venetian castle for coffee or a drink with a stunning view of the Aegean Sea.

Naousa, a beautiful town of brilliant white houses against the aquamarine water of the ocean with a Venetian castle that offers a stunning view of the Aegean sea. — The Venetian Castle of Naousa, offering a stunning view of the Aegean Sea.

For those seeking a more serene atmosphere, the tranquil traditional villages of Marpissa and Lefkes offer a peaceful escape, revealing the diverse facets of Paros.

A pretty and neat alley with plants, some are blooming like a bougainvillea in pots, in Marpissa village, Paros. — A pretty alley with plants in pots in Marpissa village, Paros.

Lefkes served as the capital of Paros in the Middle Ages, boasting quaint traditional

whitewashed houses that showcase remnants of Venetian architecture.

Lefkes, a city in Paros with its 15th-century churches, charming whitewashed windmills, and picturesque dovecotes. — Lefkes, the former capitol of Paros in the Middle Ages.

Additionally, this delightful village is home to captivating 15th-century churches, charming whitewashed windmills, and picturesque dovecotes.

Interesting Facts About Paros

The "Church of the Hundred Doors," or Panagia Ekatontapiliani, stands close to Parikia's main square and is Paros' primary church. It was founded by Saint Helen, the mother of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great, during her pilgrimage to the Holy Land.