Introducing Naxos
It was on Naxos that an ungrateful Theseus is said to have abandoned Ariadne after she helped him escape the Cretan labyrinth. In keeping with even mythic soap opera, she didn’t pine long, and was soon entwined with Dionysos, the god of wine and ecstasy and the island’s favourite deity. Naxian wine has long been considered a fine antidote for a broken heart.
Advertisement
The island was a cultural centre of classical Greece and of Byzantium. Venetian and Frankish influences have left their mark.
Naxos is more fertile than most of the other islands and produces olives, grapes, figs, citrus fruit, corn and potatoes. Mt Zeus (1004m; also known as Mt Zas or Zefs) is the Cyclades’ highest peak and is the central focus of the island’s mountainous interior, in which you find enchanting villages such as Halki and Apiranthos. There are numerous fine beaches and the island is a wonderful place to explore on foot, as many old paths between villages, churches and other sights still survive. There are a number of walking guides and maps, including the useful Central Naxos – A Guide with Map (€8), available from local bookshops.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
-
RE: Greek Ferry help - Athens-Serifos-Milos-Naxos-Athens
by GeorgeN 07 September 2011
You can also check this new Ferries Greece schedules finder by the Greece Yellow Pages site www.xo.gr Greek Ferry Routes: http://www.xo.…
-
Upcoming trip to Greece for our anniversary
by cms05 05 September 2011
Hello everyone. My wife and I are planning a trip to Greece to celebrate our anniversary- the tentative dates are October 6-October 19,…
-
GREECE 2012, MAY, Naxos or Paros
by eddie35 29 August 2011
Planning my trip to GREECE for May 2012, I am currently planning, Mykonos for 3 days, Paros or Naxos for 2 days and then Santorini for…
