DODECANESE NORTH

Dodecanese, meaning “12 islands” in Greek, is a cluster of twelve islands in the southeastern edge of Aegean Sea. They are closer to Turkey than Greece. Each island has a character all its own and these islands have a long and rich history, with traces from classical Greek times through Byzantium, the Crusaders, Venetians and Ottomans.

 

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KOS

Kos is also known as ‘Istankoy’ which is the hometown of Hippocrates, the father of medicine. There is a square and an old tree named after Hippocrates on the island. Being a place where Turks are in majority, Turkish-Greek synthesis was passed on to the cuisine with joint flavors. Oleanders and bougainvillea accompany its striking architecture. Two mosques named Laziya and Defterdar are the traces of the Ottoman Empire. It is rumored that the Neratzia Castle, located here, was built by the Knights of Rhodes to protect the island from the Ottomans. It is also possible to see the ruins of the ancient hospital dedicated to the God of Health-Asclepeion. Zia Village is among the places you can visit to enjoy the most delightful sunsets of the Aegean.
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PSERİMOS

Also known as the ‘Goat Island’, it is referred to as ‘Kappari ‘in the old sources. Located between Kalymnos and Kos, across the Turkish coast, Pserimost is one of the smallest settlements within the chain of twelve islands. This place, having no streets and roads, is a destination for you to witness the pristine nature. Avlokia, the island’s main beach, and other beaches are within walking distance. A key point for those who want to relax through leisurely activities, and nestled in the turquoise waters of the Aegean, Pserimos Island a unique combination of sweet breeze and nature.
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LEROS

Leros has a history, dating back to ancient times. The island, which was under the Ottoman rule for 400 years, was passed to Greek territory after governed by Italy. Having hosted different civilizations, Leros has an atmosphere that makes you feel travelling in time, through a cultural journey, surrounded with the undertones of turquoise. The castle, which is estimated to have been built in the 10th century on the island, and the Agios Church on an islet to its west are among the must-see landmarks. The cultural heritage of Pandeli Castle and Museum, Artemis Temple Ruins, Agia Marino Museum, Agios Isidoros surrounded with nature, create unique combinations. Ada Dio Liskaria is an impressive destination with a variety of nudist beaches and water sports activities in Lakkion.
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PATMOS

Patmos is located in the northernmost of all the twelve islands. Chora is the island’s capital city whereas Skala is the main port city. Patmos is the most sacred of the islands for the Orthodox and Catholic communities. It is known as the place where the Gospel of St John, one of the four Gospels, has been authored and where Jesus has honored Saint John with his view. Carrying these features, the island is considered among one of the pilgrimage destinations for people with Christian beliefs. The Monastery of St. John and the Cave of the Apocalypse in Chorada belong to the UNESCO World Heritage List. The island’s architecture and its pebbled streets are in line with the twelve islands’ characteristic features. There is a wide range of accommodation and beach options in Patmos and here is among the ideal places to experience water sports and Greek cuisine. A religious music festival is held every August
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KALYMNOS

Kalymnos, in other words ‘the island of adventurers’, is dominated by gray majestic rocks descending perpendicular to the sea, diverging from the intense harmony of green and blue. What makes the slopes covered with oregano and sage scents so attractive is that it is a popular destination for those who are interested in mountain sports as it is known as the island with the longest season. Eight months of the year, athletes from all over the world rush into the island for climbing. Another factor of popularity of the island is based on its being the center where sponge diving takes place. Although that the sponge diving is forbidden today, you may come across masters crafting sponges and people trying to continue this tradition. You can visit the Maritime Museum and Traditional Kalymnion House, to learn the history of sponge diving. Kalymnos is a unique destination with its isolated small coves, villages and entertaining nightlife, where you can spend different periods of time full of pleasant activities.
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LİPSİ

Lipsi is also known as the ‘Island of Lovers’ being the island of the Goddesses Ogyia and Kalypso. It is located between Leros and Patmos islands. Lipsi has preserved its natural beauty and authentic culture, unspoiled by mass tourism and it is an ideal spot for those who prefer tranquility. Surrounded by vineyards, the most special wines are produced on the island. All other local products are organic and certified. It has become one of the indispensable choices for those, adopting a life style of natural life and organic diet. There are many paths for hiking, and the trails lead to small chapels, secluded beaches and panoramic views. There are Acropolis ruins in the castle at the highest point of the island. A wine festival is held here in August every year.
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