• The city of Samos is built amphitheatrically; the quarter of Vathy, its old traditional settlement, stands at the highest point with its narrow streets, colourful houses and wooden balconies
• The Trench of Eupalinos is a unique construction by the ancient engineer Eupalinos, who by starting the construction of two tunnels with over 1000-meter distance managed to join them with almost minimal deviation!
• Visit Pythagoreion, a settlement that has been characterised by UNESCO a “World Cultural Heritage Monument” and Karlovasi which still has the noble aura of its glorious trade past
• Take a trip to Fournoi, an island complex that have preserved their charm, untouched by tourism. The golden beaches, the picturesque bays and the fresh fish guarantee tranquil but quality vacations!
• Visit Ikaria, an island with a hidden charm that has been “discovered” lately, with an intense alteration of scenery, mountainous and seaside villages that preserve elements of their past. Armenistis is the most touristic area of the isla
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Perfecture of SAMOS
Greece
Region of North Aegean Capital town: Vathy Area: Population:
Presentation
The Prefecture of Samos is comprised of the islands of Samos, Ikaria and Fournoi. The islands are located in the eastern Aegean Sea, a few kilometers away from the Asia Minor coast. Mythology, history, civilisation, natural and built environment justify their uniqueness.
Samos is the biggest island of the Prefecture. It is the homeland of Pythagoras; it also combines the verdurous natural environment, the seaside and mountainous settlements of the Aegean Sea or neoclassical style with the vast beaches where trees reach the waves!
The island of Ikaria is interwoven with the legend of Daedalus and Icarus, and it offers the possibility for quality getaways in alternating landscapes. The island of Fournoi which is between Samos and Ikaria, preserves its traits intact and offers golden beaches to visitors.
History
Our historic knowledge on Samos begins in the 6th century BC during the tyranny of Polycratis when the island had been a centre of the Ionian Civilisation and a great maritime power. In 439 BC Samos was destroyed by the Athenians. During the Roman Era noteworthy historic events have not been noted.
During the Byzantine Era, the island was again destroyed by pirate invasion until it got depopulated. In order to bring residents back, the Turks offered many privileges to the Greek Orthodox. Since 1821 when the Greek Revolution commenced, the island remained semi-autonomous until 1912.
Information
• Prefecture of Samos / Department of Tourism: 2273080005
Region of North Aegean
