Andros is an island known for its long history, rich in religious tradition. It comes as no surprise that the island boasts a great number of significant religious monuments, churches and monasteries.

Dotted all around the countryside are the impressive Byzantine monasteries of Andros, built in secluded and remarkable spots, which are the perfect destination for meditation and prayer. Another striking fact about them is that they hold icons, which are considered miraculous, and, also, important relics.

A visit to the most important historical monasteries of the island is surely worth the time, though access to them requires a car. Apartments in Andros villages may also arrange trips to monasteries.

Monastery of Panachrantou

Among the most important monasteries in Andros is the Monastery of Panachrantou, built on the edge of a verdant mountain amidst impressive rock formations at the Geronakas area. It was built in the 10th century by order of the General Nikiforos Fokas, who would later become Emperor of the Eastern Roman empire, and its long and narrow shape resembles a Byzantine fortress.

The Monastery of Panachrantou houses the sacred icon of the Virgin Mary, attributed to St.Luke, and is dedicated to the Immaculate Holy Mother. It is also called monastery of Saint Panteleimon, as it keeps the relic skull of St. Panteleimon. From the premises of the monastery visitors can enjoy a fantastic view to the Aegean sea and the amazing Chora settlement.

Monastery of Zoodochos Pighi

Found north of the popular Batsi settlement, the Monastery of Zoodochos Pighi is the largest and one of the most impressive monasteries of Andros. Its construction date remains still unknown, but researchers have discovered a reference of the monastery in a document from the 15th century. Since 1928 it has been functioning as a nunnery, celebrating in the first Friday after the Orthodox Easter.

The monastery of Zoodochos Pighi is distinguished for its beautiful wooden carved iconostasis, made in the 14th and 16th century, embellished by masterful Byzantine and post-Byzantine paintings. There is also a rich library worth visiting and an Ecclesiastical Museum with religious exhibitis, such as holy vestments and other items.

Monastery of Agia Marina

World-wide celebrated for the miraculous and protective qualities, attributed to its icons, the Monastery of Agia Marina stands on the slopes of a hill across Apikia village north of Andros Chora. It was built in the 14th century, burned many times during the 16th and 17 century and then again restored by monk Sofronio in 1746, when it was turned into a nunnery.

International and Greek religious tourists come to the Monastery of Agia Marina, one of the most interesting monasteries of Andros, to pay homage to the saint Agia Marina and drink water from Sariza spring, considered to be holy and have healing properties.

Source

The history of Andros and mythology, as is natural, is directly linked to that of the rest of the Aegean and Greek islands. Andros has ancient names like Hydrusa (with plenty of water), Epagris, Nonagria (liquid field), Lasia (with lush vegetation) and Gavros. The most prevalent version of the island’s name dates back to mythology.

Mythology for Andros

Before 3000 BC from the union of Apollo with Rios (daughter of Staphylos, son of Dionysus) was born Anios. Apollo made Anio king of Delos, who had three daughters and two sons, Andros, and Mykonos. His sons reigned on two islands and gave them their names. The mythological origins of the inhabitants of the island interpret the dominant worship of God Dionysus and the presence of the gods-ancestors in their coins.

History of Andros during prehistoric and archaic times

The largest preserved settlement of the Neolithic Age of the Aegean.

The history of Andros during the prehistoric and archaic period mentions the first inhabitants of the island Pelasgians. Then came Kares, later the Phoenicians, the Cretans, and finally the Ionians. At the time of copper, the settlements that have experienced particular acne are Mikrogiali, Plaka and Strofilas, considered the largest preserved settlement of the Neolithic Age of the Aegean! The settlements of Zagora and Ypsilis know great acne in the years 900-700 BC, as evidenced by the traces of the settlement, were revealed in Zagora (near Zaganiari). The predominant version is the one that wants Andros as the first settler of the island.

History of Andros during the Classical era

Exhibits at the Palaeopolis Museum

The history of Andros during the classic era finds the island to have its capital in Paleopolis. The prosperity of this period is evident from the rich coinage and the impressive statue of Hermes of Andros (a copy of Hellenistic years, Archaeological Museum in Chora). In the 7th century BC the Andreeans together with the Halkides founded in Chalkidiki 4 cities – Apoikies, Acantho, Argilo, Sani and the famous Stageira homeland of philosopher Aristotle. One of the best-preserved monuments of the Hellenistic period is Agios Petros Tower, built in a cylindrical shape. Dionysus was the preeminent god of worship of the inhabitants.

History of Andros during the Athenian hegemony and the Peloponnesian War

With the beginning of the Peloponnesian war, Andros fought at the side of the Athenians. After the defeat in Sicily in 412 BC, the island revolted. In the end, after many battles, the outcome was the oligarchy and Andros to fight next to the Spartans.

History of Andros during the Roman era

History of Andros during the Roman period indicates that the inhabitants did not see much difference when the Romans came to Andros. The reason was that they kept the traditions, customs and customs of the island. The only difference was in the language and the constitution. But after many years these differences disappeared because the Romans became one with the Greeks. In Roman times, the cult of Isis prevailed, according to an epigraphic monument that until 1987 was built in the house of Ioannis Loukreζis in Paleopolis, Palaeopolis Museum.

History of Andros during the Byzantine period

The history of Andros during the Byzantine years finds the island to be developed in the field of silversmithing. It was the time of the Empire of the Komnene (12th century). This turned it into an export centre of silk and woven fabrics in the West. During this period Paleopolis declines and its inhabitants deal with agriculture in the inland of the island. By the time of the Byzantine Empire, Christianity spread throughout the island. When Constantinople became the largest commercial and economic centre, Andros languished.

History of Andros during the Venetian domination

With the fall of Constantinople by the Franks, the island fell to the Venetians. In 1207 Marino Dandolo was assigned a relative of the Doge of Venice and remained in their sovereignty until 1566. To protect the island from pirates Marinos Dandolos build towers and castles. So he built the “Kato Kastro” Lower Castle first (Castel a basso) of today’s Chora. The name Riva survived from that time as it was the main quay of Chora. The second medieval fortification is considered larger and stronger, it was the Upper Castle “Pano Kastro” (Castel del alto). Smaller castles and fortifications were scattered on the island. Among them is the Tower of Makrotandalos, the Vryokastro in Varidi and the Kastellaki in Gides. During the Venetian occupation, the settlement of the Arvanites, which settled mainly in the northern part of Andros, belongs to them. A Venetian painting of 1470 reports that Andros is inhabited by 2,000 people.

History of Andros during the Ottoman Empire

In 1566 Andros fell into the hands of the Ottomans. During the period of Ottoman domination, Andros enjoyed privileged treatment, which provided it with a relative economic prosperity. During the same period, shipping has grown rapidly. In the 1770s Andros passed into the hands of the Russians. In 1790 Lambros Katsonis collided with the Turkish fleet in the naval battle of Andros but was defeated losing most of his ships. The economy of the place was still rural. The kozambasides of Upper Castle “Kato Kastro” (Korthi) were wealthy landowners and lords. In Kato Kastro, however, a new class of sailors had begun to develop, the “gemitzides”. In 1813 Andros had 40 boats and 400 sailors.

History of Andros from the Revolution onwards

Theophilos Kairis, one of the pioneers of the Modern Greek Enlightenment.

On May 10, 1821, Theophilos Kairis, one of the pioneers of the Modern Greek Enlightenment. He raised the banner of the Revolution and thus began the newer history, which finds Andros, thanks to its strong shipping. Mainly thanks to the insight of its shipowners who invested in time in steam-powered shipping, at the brink of economic prosperity. It is worth noting that Dimitris Moraitis launched the line of Greece – North America at the beginning of the 20th century, while in 1939 Andros was the second, after Piraeus, in the number of ships registration. Andros was hit by two world wars that caused serious losses in lives and ships, while Chora in 1944 was bombed many times.

The history of Andros and mythology, as is natural, is directly linked to that of the rest of the Aegean and Greek islands. Andros has ancient names like Hydrusa (with plenty of water), Epagris, Nonagria (liquid field), Lasia (with lush vegetation) and Gavros. The most prevalent version of the island’s name dates back to mythology.

Mythology for Andros

Before 3000 BC from the union of Apollo with Rios (daughter of Staphylos, son of Dionysus) was born Anios. Apollo made Anio king of Delos, who had three daughters and two sons, Andros, and Mykonos. His sons reigned on two islands and gave them their names. The mythological origins of the inhabitants of the island interpret the dominant worship of God Dionysus and the presence of the gods-ancestors in their coins.

History of Andros during prehistoric and archaic times

The largest preserved settlement of the Neolithic Age of the Aegean.

The history of Andros during the prehistoric and archaic period mentions the first inhabitants of the island Pelasgians. Then came Kares, later the Phoenicians, the Cretans, and finally the Ionians. At the time of copper, the settlements that have experienced particular acne are Mikrogiali, Plaka and Strofilas, considered the largest preserved settlement of the Neolithic Age of the Aegean! The settlements of Zagora and Ypsilis know great acne in the years 900-700 BC, as evidenced by the traces of the settlement, were revealed in Zagora (near Zaganiari). The predominant version is the one that wants Andros as the first settler of the island.

History of Andros during the Classical era

Exhibits at the Palaeopolis Museum

The history of Andros during the classic era finds the island to have its capital in Paleopolis. The prosperity of this period is evident from the rich coinage and the impressive statue of Hermes of Andros (a copy of Hellenistic years, Archaeological Museum in Chora). In the 7th century BC the Andreeans together with the Halkides founded in Chalkidiki 4 cities – Apoikies, Acantho, Argilo, Sani and the famous Stageira homeland of philosopher Aristotle. One of the best-preserved monuments of the Hellenistic period is Agios Petros Tower, built in a cylindrical shape. Dionysus was the preeminent god of worship of the inhabitants.

History of Andros during the Athenian hegemony and the Peloponnesian War

With the beginning of the Peloponnesian war, Andros fought at the side of the Athenians. After the defeat in Sicily in 412 BC, the island revolted. In the end, after many battles, the outcome was the oligarchy and Andros to fight next to the Spartans.

History of Andros during the Roman era

History of Andros during the Roman period indicates that the inhabitants did not see much difference when the Romans came to Andros. The reason was that they kept the traditions, customs and customs of the island. The only difference was in the language and the constitution. But after many years these differences disappeared because the Romans became one with the Greeks. In Roman times, the cult of Isis prevailed, according to an epigraphic monument that until 1987 was built in the house of Ioannis Loukreζis in Paleopolis, Palaeopolis Museum.

History of Andros during the Byzantine period

The history of Andros during the Byzantine years finds the island to be developed in the field of silversmithing. It was the time of the Empire of the Komnene (12th century). This turned it into an export centre of silk and woven fabrics in the West. During this period Paleopolis declines and its inhabitants deal with agriculture in the inland of the island. By the time of the Byzantine Empire, Christianity spread throughout the island. When Constantinople became the largest commercial and economic centre, Andros languished.

History of Andros during the Venetian domination

With the fall of Constantinople by the Franks, the island fell to the Venetians. In 1207 Marino Dandolo was assigned a relative of the Doge of Venice and remained in their sovereignty until 1566. To protect the island from pirates Marinos Dandolos build towers and castles. So he built the “Kato Kastro” Lower Castle first (Castel a basso) of today’s Chora. The name Riva survived from that time as it was the main quay of Chora. The second medieval fortification is considered larger and stronger, it was the Upper Castle “Pano Kastro” (Castel del alto). Smaller castles and fortifications were scattered on the island. Among them is the Tower of Makrotandalos, the Vryokastro in Varidi and the Kastellaki in Gides. During the Venetian occupation, the settlement of the Arvanites, which settled mainly in the northern part of Andros, belongs to them. A Venetian painting of 1470 reports that Andros is inhabited by 2,000 people.

History of Andros during the Ottoman Empire

In 1566 Andros fell into the hands of the Ottomans. During the period of Ottoman domination, Andros enjoyed privileged treatment, which provided it with a relative economic prosperity. During the same period, shipping has grown rapidly. In the 1770s Andros passed into the hands of the Russians. In 1790 Lambros Katsonis collided with the Turkish fleet in the naval battle of Andros but was defeated losing most of his ships. The economy of the place was still rural. The kozambasides of Upper Castle “Kato Kastro” (Korthi) were wealthy landowners and lords. In Kato Kastro, however, a new class of sailors had begun to develop, the “gemitzides”. In 1813 Andros had 40 boats and 400 sailors.

History of Andros from the Revolution onwards

Theophilos Kairis, one of the pioneers of the Modern Greek Enlightenment.

On May 10, 1821, Theophilos Kairis, one of the pioneers of the Modern Greek Enlightenment. He raised the banner of the Revolution and thus began the newer history, which finds Andros, thanks to its strong shipping. Mainly thanks to the insight of its shipowners who invested in time in steam-powered shipping, at the brink of economic prosperity. It is worth noting that Dimitris Moraitis launched the line of Greece – North America at the beginning of the 20th century, while in 1939 Andros was the second, after Piraeus, in the number of ships registration. Andros was hit by two world wars that caused serious losses in lives and ships, while Chora in 1944 was bombed many times.

Source

We have specialized and excelled in providing walking tours and holidays in some of the most beautiful countrysides of the Cyclades Islands, for over ten years.

There is nothing better than letting yourself be guided by qualified and knowledgeable guides, not only because you will feel safe but because their stories will unfold in front of you the whole history and culture of Andros and will make the hike more than just an experience in nature.

Challenging hikes or pleasant strolls are scattered all over Andros. Our carefully designed walking tours based on your interest, fitness level, and available time are mostly based on Andros Routes hiking network.

Read more about Hiking on Andros

These walking tours are ideal for those who want to have a mild outdoor adventure, experience a hiking tour through the eyes and the storytelling of local guides exploring the nature and culture of the island.

These trails include cobbled or paved paths, dirt tracks or cemented, ranging from mild to rough rocky terrains, which frequently take you through streams or dense vegetation and frequently include steep parts. We characterized the difficulty level as EASY – MODERATE – DIFFICULT based on the distance, inclination, and altitude difference.  Previous experience is not required for these walking tours, but a relatively good state of health is essential.

EASY It concerns easy crossing trails with sufficient width and smooth inclination. Suitable for all ages and physical conditions (4 km-6 km)
MODERATE It refers to moderate difficulty walking trails, suitable for adults, with moderate to good physical condition. Few steep slope changes (uphill/downhill) and part of the route is on narrow or rough terrain. (4 km – 10 km)
DIFFICULT It concerns trails with a high degree of difficulty in passing. The route is in difficult terrain (rough and/or slippery and/or narrow and/or steep) and with steep slope changes (uphill / downhill). Suitable for adults with good to very good physical condition. (4 km-20 km)

Email us or call us to customise your walking day tour!

Private tours are completely flexible and can be fully customized to your specific needs. We will personally pick you up from your hotel and take care of everything.

Source

Andros is an island located in the Cyclades Archipelago and is just a ferry ride away from Rafina port. The island’s closeness to Athens is what makes it one of the most popular Greek island destinations for the perfect weekend getaway.

There is no airport in Andros, but when you arrive at Athens airport, you need to take a taxi or a bus to Rafina port and board a ferry that transfers you to Andros. In Andros, you’ll find all the major car rental companies.

Andros is the 2^nd largest island of the Cyclades after Naxos, and because it is so verdant and fertile, it’s a great place for long walks.

It has a Mediterranean climate with cool to warm summers and mild winters. With so many inhabited islands, there are boats to serve these islands, and Greece is renowned for its shipping tradition.  Ferries and catamarans also make use of the main port Gavrio which also happens to be a popular holiday resort.

Things to do and see in Andros Greece

An Ultimate Hiking Destination

The island’s beautiful landscape is a mix of dazzling blue seas contrasting with the lush green hillsides. Small wonder that Andros is known as an ultimate hiking destination.

It offers wonderful walking trails cross mountain slopes and forests and takes you into enchanting little villages. Bird lovers will be amazed at the variety of birds that dwell in the forests including doves, whistling ducks and parrots. It is also pleasant hiking the 160km of well sign-posted trails during the summer as the winds cool you as you walk.

The varied landscape offers an assortment of hiking experiences. If you want to know more about the trails – they are shown in more detail in the map of Andros which can be got from the Anavasi map company. There is also a bookshop at the Andros harbor and the map is also available there.

Andros Route – the Best of Europe

One hundred kilometers of paths form a continuous walking route and this is known as the Andros Route. The path is fully marked and can be walked in 10 daily sections. In 2015 this Andros Route hiking trail received the hiking quality certification ‘Leading Quality Trails – Best of Europe’ from the European Ramblers Association, the only island so far in Europe to have this hiking certification.

In fact, even though the island is great for all kinds of activities, it is the only Greek island with a certified network of hiking trails that add up to be roughly 300 kilometers. The paths are maintained by nature lover volunteers from all over the world.

Hora – the Capital of Andros

The main town is Hora and is also known as Andros. The capital town perches eye-catchingly on a rocky peninsula and you can imagine that the views are spectacular.

Unlike other Greek Islands that have the traditional whitewashed buildings, Andros Town is better known for its fantastic neoclassical mansions. You can take a walk through the town and admire the neoclassical mansions.

Neoclassical is an architectural style of the mid 18^th century, with its roots dating date back to the 17th century when ancient Greek architecture was revived. That’s the interesting thing with these Greek isles – the main town nearly always has the name of the island itself.

When visiting Hora, a trip into the main street will give you the chance to wander into the shops and taverns there or perhaps relax in the shady Kairi Square and listen to the tinkling sounds of the marble fountain.

There are other impressive buildings in the town and lovers of arts and culture will be impressed with the museums, art gallery and churches.

 Sightseeing in and around Andros:

An illustrious art scene –

Andros is an island characterized by its art and culture. Art lovers will relish the many museums, staring with Palaiopolis. In 1956 excavations were started and in 2003 they opened the Archaeological Museum of Palaiopolis. It has collections of artworks ranging from the Classical to the Roman period, with an important exhibition being Pegasus, a marble winged, mythical horse dating to the 5^th century B.C.

Andros celebrates art in different ways and there are many art exhibitions and other festivities taking place on the island. The dance festival of the Musical society is every June and there are other summer festivals in Gavrio and the other villages in northwestern Andros. You become part of the Andriot spirit, with wine, music, dancing and food.

Each year the capital, Andros Town or Chora organizes a music and arts festival known as the Ploes Festival, highlighting all the music and art events presented in Andros.

Museum of Contemporary Art

The purpose of this museum was to exhibit the collection of works by Andros sculptor, Michael Tombros. The founders of the museum, Basil and Elise Goulandris also have their personal collection of well known and distinguished Greek and foreign artists. The Museum offers free guided tours and there are also videos which go with the exhibitions.

There is a newer part of the museum which hosts exhibitions of more modern Greek painters from 1983 to 1985. The new wing of the museum also has a museum shop, library, and projection room as well as space set aside for international exhibitions. The Roof Garden, ideal for hosting events, offers views of the Aegean, the Andros Yacht Club and the chapel of Agia Thalassini.

Maritime Museum of Andros

If ships, captains, the high seas and nautical journeys intrigue you, the Maritime Museum of Andros, founded in 1972 will delight and fascinate you. It has exhibits of life on the seas before the 1821 Greek War of Independence.

Olive Museum,  Ano Pitrofos village

This is an old preserved olive mill that dates back to 1823 and which was transformed into a museum in 1997. It retains its original equipment and in 1997 was transformed into a museum. Visitors will be able to get an idea of traditional oil production in the Cyclades.

Other Must-See Points of Interest:

Several Monasteries –

Monastery of Panachrantos

Built in the 10th century by the Byzantine emperor Nikiforos Fokas, the monastery, with its aura of tranquility, is set high in the Geronakas mountainous in the south of Andros. It offers splendid views of some of the villages such as Menites, Lamia and Messaria.

There are actually monks living in the monastery too. It is surrounded by a high wall, giving you the idea of a fortress. Traditionally, it is believed the monastery was built in a place shown by the icon of the Holy Mother, an icon still found in the monastery.  Interestingly, you’ll also find the skull of the martyr Agios Panteleimon.

The Zoodohou Pigis

This monastery of Zoodochou Pigis is referred to as Monastiraki by the locals and is found near the village Christos in Agios Kirykos. It has been renovated a few times. What is of interest with this monastery are the preserved cells and an ecclesiastical tabloid that dates way back to the 19th century AD.

Lots of villages to visit 

Messaria

This ancient village that dates back to the 17^th century has some old manor houses such as the mansion of George Emmanuel Argyros, built in 1888 and transformed into a museum that holds items from the 19th century. If you’re looking for accommodation in this ‘must-see’ village, the museum’s ground floor is a 5-star guest house.

The village has lots of shops and restaurants and it is surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. You can visit one of the wineries for a wonderful wine-tasting experience.

Menites

The mountain village is found about 6 kilometers from the capital, Chora. Menites is also close to Messaria and is magnificently built on the Petalo Mountain. The village is famous for its abundance of water and its springs. The village has plenty of paved paths and alleys, and in fact you can walk to the Panachrantou Monastery.

The Feast of Dionysos is celebrated in Menites and there is plenty of festive fanfare with music, dancing, eating and drinking.

Souvenirs – Batik Fabric and Garment manufacturing Factory

On Central Andros, next to the Lighthouse Club in Fresh Creek is Androsia Batik where you can see artisans creating designs for cotton and silk fabrics for cool island-style wear. You can buy skirts, caftans, shirts, shorts and lots of trendy accessories, all beautifully hand-painted.

The famous factory has been in business since 1973 and is known for its brightly colored garments. You can actually see artisans at work on the fabrics and the store provides super gifts for you to take home to family and friends.

Cool Places to Dine in Andros Greece

You can get to enjoy all the traditional flavors of Greece in the local taverns of which there are some pretty good ones. Andros is a place for delectable Greek island food at its best. You’re bound to come across Labriatis – marinated goat stuffed with onions, cheese, parsley, eggs, butter and olive oil and then baked in the oven with rosemary.

Oti Kalo is a charming restaurant overlooking the small fishing port of Batsi. The restaurant has a high position, offering splendid views and great food. People come from far to enjoy their deliciously popular omelet with country-style pork sausages and potatoes.

Nightlife and Bars on Andros Greece

Andros has a vibrant nightlife, after all the Greeks are known to be fun-loving, entertaining people. There are plenty of bars, night clubs, cafes and restaurants as well as beach parties that you won’t want to miss. Music, dance, wine and good friends are what the nightlife is all about. Many of the hotels and beach bars offer music from live bands and these are generally crowded in the summer.

 An exciting range of Accommodation Options

Andros offers a range of fantastic beach holiday experiences. There are many self-catering apartments, chalets, guest houses, cottages, small and large hotels in the villages, towns and cities. You can easily plan a trip to Andros and get accommodation that suits your budget.

You can book your accommodation online. Some of the accommodation offers a shuttle service from the port to your accommodation and there are also taxis on the island.

You can take your pick from stylish guest houses in Andros such as Lorenzia’s House which offers fabulous amenities such as free wifi as well as a bicycle- and car rental service for your convenience.

 Beach days in Andros

The capital Andros Chora has some beautiful beaches, with the main beach being Niborio. You’ll find beach loungers to rent as well as umbrellas. The beach is ideal for families and there are cafes and taverns close by to keep beachgoers fed and watered.

In the vicinity of Andros Chora are a number of other beaches that can actually be reached by foot. One of these is Sineti Beach with its beautiful white beaches and turquoise waters.

Megali Peza Beach

This is a beautiful beach, somewhat secluded and on the northern side of Andros Cyclades. It’s a small beach with crystal clear water and is thought to be one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. If you’re looking for a quiet time of sun tanning and swimming, this beach is perfect for you, although you need to know that there aren’t any facilities offered.

Batsi Beach

This is a popular beach in Andros and with good reason. Unlike some less popular beaches, this resort town with its beach is well organized with lots of tourist amenities and you can rent deckchairs and umbrellas.

You can relax on the soft, white sand and be highly entertained by all the activities and water sports. The shallow water also makes it ideal for families and it is protected from the wind. The fishing harbor is close by and of course, there are plenty of cafes and taverns offering traditional Greek food, pastries and other treats for the beach.

It can be enjoyable taking a stroll from the beach and going into the town of Batsi where there are more restaurants and other shops.

Summing Up

Andros summons images of blue skies, endless beaches and never a dull moment. If you plan well, you can do a lot over a weekend, a week or a month, especially as many popular sights are close to each other to visit. The island offers so many amazing experiences and there is no doubt you’ll have a fantastic time.

Source