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Samos, in the Northern Agean islands, is one of the greenest. It boasts picturesque villages, fabulous beaches and pine forests and olive groves that take one's breath away. Like everywhere in Greece, its history begins in antiquity being the birthplace of the goddess Ira as well as the ancient philosophers, Aristarhos and Pythagoras.


The island has plenty of ancient sights and other places of interest for the serious tourist in Greece. Nestiling between green hills is the capital, Samos, which connects with Vathy, and from here there are many old paths to explore and plenty of traditional architecture or old mansion houses to admire. In Pythagoras Square you can see the famous Lion Statue and visit the nearby Archeological and Byzantine-Ecclesiastical Museum or just stroll in the Samos Garden. The Town Hall boasts a very good Art gallery.

Further west of the capital is the village of Mytilineoi where is Paleontological Museum. Further south is Pythagorion which is a village built on the foundations of ancient Samos. Pythagorion is a bustiling place during the tourist season but probably always has been, as archeological excavations have unearthed evidence of habitation here that goes back to 2,500 B.C. It is not surprising then that close by you can see the ruins of the goddess Ira's Temple.

The second largest town, after Samos, is Karlovasi where the University of the Aegean is sited, and consequently has all the elements that one could expect to find in a University town - least of all countless, good and cheap eating places. Throughout the island during the summer many cultural events take place - if you are lucky enough to be there in August then make sure you taste the famous local wine during the Wine Festival. For contrast and tranquility, the island has many beautiful little villages and churches all set in a lush green landscape surrounded by the sparkling Agean sea. What more could you ask for?

Pictures from the Greek islands
Rhodes Rhodes photos Kos Patmos Astypalea Leros Kalymnos Kastelorizo Symi Karpathos Nisyros Lipsi Paros Naxos Sifnos Serifos Kythnos Crete Samos Tilos Agathonisi Halki fishing boats Greek Ferries Greek landscapes