Andros Island

Andros is the second largest island in the Cyclades, after Naxos. Its terrain is composed of ranges of mountains separated by river beds, gorges and valleys planted with vines and fruit trees. The north-eastern shores of Andros are very windy and its climate is mild, dry and very healthy. Its many running waters and wonderful climate make Andros one of the most fertile Cycladic islands. It is rich in fruit trees and olive groves. The island has about 10,500 inhabitants.

The capital of the island is Chora or Andros. The principal port is Gavrio. Andros is the birth place of many ship owners and its Naval museum, in Chora, is a testament to that. 

Andros offers many opportunities for nightlife and entertainment. There is an open-air cinema at Chora, also coffe-shops, taverns, sea-food restaurants, wine bars, discos, dancing and Greek musical entertainment.

History

According to mythology, Andros took its name from its first settler, Andros, son of Evrimachus and grandson of Apollo and Kreoussa. He was general of Radamanthis, King of Crete, who offered him the island as a gift for his services. Historically, Andros was settled by Carians, Phoenicians, Cretans, and Pelasgians. During the Persian Wars, the island was captured by the Persians and later joined the Athenian League. The island passed to the Macedonians, and later to the Romans who granted it to Apalos of Pergamos. 

Andros enjoyed great prosperity during Byzantine times, in spite of pirate raids due to its culture. In 1207, it was captured by the Venetians, who built towers and castles. In 1537, it was ransacked by Barbarossa and later became the possession of the Ottomans, until 1821, when the priest Theophilos Kairis declared a revolution. The island was liberated in 1830 by the Treaty of London. Its history though consists of another bloody page: In 1943, the island was bombarded continuously by the Germans until it was completely destroyed.

Beaches

Gavrio, Vitali, Agios Petros, Zorkou, Ateni, Nimborio, Paraporti, Korthi, Aprovato, Yiala and Pisso Yiala.

Place of interest

VENETIAN CASTLE

One of the most significant monuments in the capital of Andros, is its famous castle, which was built by Marinos Dandalos, after he conquered the island. The castle's towers and barracks, as well as the blazons of the Venetian rulers, were well preserved until 1943, when during the heavy bombardment it was completely destroyed. From "Messa Castro", which included the chambers of the Venetian ruler, one can see only parts of the tower's wall, while from "Kato Castro" there are still parts of the walls and the buildings.

SARIZA SPRING

The spring of mineral water of Sariza is situated in the village of Apikia, 4 kilometers west of Chora. The spring is situated above the village's central square, and it attracts many visitors.

THE NAVAL MUSEUM OF ANDROS

The Naval Museum of Andros is one of the most impressive buildings in Chora. It includes a wide collection of naval implements, models of ships and photographs

Transportation

From Attica - Rafina (Port Authority +30 22940 28888) to Gavrio. The distance covered is 37 nm and the trip lasts 2½ hours by ferries and approximately 1 hour by hydrofoils.

From Thessaloniki (Port Authority +30 2310 531504)to Gavrio. The distance covered is 200 nm and the trip lasts 6½ hours.