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 Astypalea with its many Cycladic features is the connecting link between the Cyclades and the Dodecanese . This impression is strengthened by the white cubic houses clinging onto the hills and and the old watermills neatly lined up.
With its narrow strip which unites the 'inner' with the 'outer' island, to quote the locals, "astypalea reminds us of a butterfly ready to spread its wings over the eternal blue of  the Aegean."
Ships drop anchor at Pera Gialos at the front of the rock on which little white houses are perched. Its traditional architecture is strongly reminiscent of the Cyclades. The multi-coloured window shutters and the balconies filled with flowers are a sight to see. Placed as if it was a crown, the castle of Gouerini stands on the hill with the dazzling white church towers of Panagia and Aghios Georgios standing out in contrast to the dark coloured rocks.
One of the most beautiful churches of the Dodecanese is the Panagia Portaitissa which is directly beneath the castle. The church tower and the arch which is decorated with sculptured garlands, blend together to form an impressive picture. The interior has a wooden sculptured shrine covered in gold leaf.
 In the narrow alleys of the Chora (town) one can discover charming little coffee shops with tasty local delicacies.
Concentrated in the harbour together with the sea-food tavernas are most of the hotels and rooms for rent. Near the Chora, one can swim at the sandy beach of Livadi as well as other surrounding beaches and the more distant bays are accessible by boat.
Astypalea is dotted with monasteries and chapels. If you happen to be on the island when one of the local saints is being celebrated, don't miss the festivities which give life to old traditions and customs.
On the way to 'Oxo Nisi' (outer island) one passes the strip of Analypsis which is the most green filled and flat area of the island. Here one finds sandy and pebbled beaches.
Just before reaching Vathi, make a deviation to the Cave of Panagia Poulariani with its little chapel. The fishermen used to say that a light appeared there whenever the sea was stormy and the boats were out at sea.
Vathi, hidden in a gulf reminds us of a lagoon with wonderful beaches and shallow waters. One can rent a boat to to visit the cave of the dragon with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. |
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Dry -
mostly cloudy
- thunder; Cumulonimbus clouds observed |
| Temp.:
15.0°C | 59.0 °F
Hourly
Fluctuation (0.0 °C/hr)
Humidity: 76 %
Wind: 2 bft - SSW
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02:45 AM
(GMT+2) -
03/12/09 |
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