History of Naxos
Naxos important role in history goes back to the centuries. It has been the most important centre of civilisation of all the Cyclades during the ancient period. Several inhabitants like Venetians, Roman Empire took control of the island and affected the life of the local people.
Further more, it is believed that the island took the name Naxos from the leader of Carean’s. Also it has been a very wealthy period during the domination of the Ionians. Some important monuments still remain safe and you can visit them while in Naxos.
Naxos, an island full of history, myths and sightseeings!
Mythology of Naxos
Naxos island is situated in the middle of Aegean Sea in Cyclades Islands. It is located between Mykonos, Paros and Santorini. For years it has been a very important provider of products around the islands.
According to mythology, the king of Gods, Zeus, has grown up in the island. Also Dionysus, God of wine, was born in Naxos and blessed the island to be wealthy in products and foods. Additionally Theseus after killing the Minotaur of Crete took Ariadne with him and stopped in Naxos. But there Ariadne felt in love with Dionysus and lived together in the island.
Naxos greatest trademark stands outside of the port and called Portara. It has been the entrance of God Apollon’s church that has been built since 5th b.c century. It is one of the most important remains of the past and a signature of mythology.
Naxos impressive castle of Marcos Sanoudos stands on the top of the town. It has been built as a protection from the enemies. Nowadays it has been transformed to a museum that exposes the artworks and objects of late Neolithic period.
Naxos geological Museum in Apiranthos village is an important historical monument in the central-east part of the island.
Naxos archaeological museum with collection of finds from archaeological excavations in Naxos has been placed also in Apiranthos.
Demeter’s Temple in Gyroulas Area on the south of Sagri Village is dedicated to Goddess Demeter and Apollon. It was built in 530 b.c and still remains in an excellent condition.
Kouros, a male statue lying on the ground is located in Melanes that is 6.5 metres tall and another one in Apollonas village that is 10 meters high. Both are dated before the 7th century b.c Venetian towers can be found all over the island and they were built during the long Venetian rule.
The Venetian towers were built with Naxian stone, un-plastered without any covering so that they blended in with the countryside.
The most important Venetian Towers are the Bellonia tower, the towers of Gratsia and Markopoliti in the area of Tragea, the Barotsi tower in the village of Filoti and the tower Fragkopoulos in Kouronoxori.