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The Island
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Bygone eras have left a tangible mark on ancient Astypalaia - the Venetian Castle (dating back to the 13th century) perched on top of the hill in Chora monumentalizes the Guerini family's Venetian rule that lasted (nearly uninterrupted) from 1204 all the way through to 1537. This long Venetian period was followed by a comparable stretch of Turkish presence on the Dodecanese islands - Turks left in the early 20th century, only to give way to a sequence of conquerors - the British, Italians, and Germans all enjoyed a brief presence in Astypalaia before the island was eventually back under Greek jurisdiction in 1948.
Astypalaia today is a treasure ground of ancient architectural remains, scenic spots, and secluded beaches. The island's remote charm comes at a price of little to no infrastructure, especially in the outlying areas, but the trade-off is certainly worth its unparalleled tranquility and pristine quality. Thanks to the island's longstanding fishing tradition and incredible marine wealth, fish and seafood are abundant in local taverns (along with home-grown, organic produce), which are aplenty in the settlements of Chora, nearby the port of Pera Gialos, travelers' darling Maltezana (Analipsi), and the tiny villages of Livadia and Vathi.
Astypalaia today is a treasure ground of ancient architectural remains, scenic spots, and secluded beaches. The island's remote charm comes at a price of little to no infrastructure, especially in the outlying areas, but the trade-off is certainly worth its unparalleled tranquility and pristine quality. Thanks to the island's longstanding fishing tradition and incredible marine wealth, fish and seafood are abundant in local taverns (along with home-grown, organic produce), which are aplenty in the settlements of Chora, nearby the port of Pera Gialos, travelers' darling Maltezana (Analipsi), and the tiny villages of Livadia and Vathi.