Page 101 - ANDRONIS MAGAZINE 2024

ESCAPE_ Paros

Its style and character shaped by past events and cultural transitions.
Paros reflects everything it has endured through the ages.

And that complexity inspires awe in anyone who sets foot on its shores.

THE MAGIC OF PAROS lies in its rich colours and worldwide for its semitranslucent marble, used in artworks
multifaceted culture. Whitewashed houses and timeworn such as the Venus de Milo. There are quarries you can
monuments contrast splendidly with the island’s warm visit around Paros to get a better understanding of its
floral hues, the green of its fig and olive trees, the marble industry.
heavenly Aegean blue, the sunlight dazzling you from
above. Paros has a history just as impressive, one that LOOK FOR ADVENTURE EVERYWHERE
lives on in its antiquities and people. Artistry and a Don’t restrict yourself to what Paros itself can show you.
cosmopolitan spirit run in their blood, which explains The islands around it are worth a visit, too, especially
the diversity of experiences you’ll find on Paros. Antiparos. Its main village and the neighbouring Agios
Georgios are small and steeped in the lighthearted vibes
LET EACH VILLAGE TELL ITS STORY of the Cyclades. Pristine, unspoiled beaches await,
Parikia is the capital of Paros and one of its busiest promising a memorable getaway off the beaten track.
urban destinations. Besides a plethora of seaside cafes, Keep exploring Paros, and you’ll discover what makes
restaurants, and bars, it features narrow, winding streets the region so emotionally stimulating. Its natural marvels
designed to confuse pirates in the olden days, as well complement the allure of its manmade settlements, their
as a 13th-century Venetian castle built with materials style and character shaped by past events and cultural
from ancient temples. Parts of the one dedicated to transitions. Paros reflects everything it has endured
the goddess Athena remain at the top of the hill. The through the ages. And that complexity inspires awe
Byzantine church of Ekatontapiliani is another landmark in anyone who sets foot on its shores.
you mustn’t miss while enjoying the best shopping, Delve Into Parian Treasures
hospitality, and nightlife Parikia has to offer. The beaches of Paros are its prime attractions. If you
The influence of the Venetian occupation is also like relaxing seaside vistas with soft sand and crystal-
evident in Naoussa’s castle, walls, and harbour, still clear waters, Golden Beach near Parikia is a good
standing watch over the little fishing village and its choice, accommodating families as much as adventurers
churches. Saint George is a medieval temple and interested in water sports and scuba diving. You can
the resting place of its knights, while the pure white find the same luxuries at Naoussa’s Santa Maria Beach.
form of Saint Nicholas flanks the port, a quaint More obscure locations are available too. Langeri, for
sentinel in its own way. Naoussa is a favourite stop example, is a secluded Natura 2000 area, and it’s only
for international and domestic visitors alike, thanks as organised as you can make it. Grab your towel,
to its breathtaking architecture and character. It’s umbrella, and freezer box, and pick your perfect pocket
here that modern comforts interweave with Parian of sun-kissed bliss.
traditions to the most charming effect. Savour the As if Paros wasn’t idyllic enough, the island is also
local cuisine. Appreciate fishermen’s meticulous work home to a butterfly nature reserve. Travel 7km from
as they mend their nets. Take a boat out to the sandy Parikia towards the Monastery of Christos sto Dasos,
coves of Kolymbithres Beach. and you’ll come across a park where the Euplagia
Paros has several such beautiful locations. Marpissa is quadripunctaria or Jersey tiger moth reins. Well-marked
a great example, a hidden gem of a village in the hills paths wind through the trees, giving you clear views Opposite page:
of Kefalos. It offers authentic Cycladic experiences of the butterflies in their natural habitat. There’s a There’s nothing
that include picturesque buildings and views, warm Byzantine watermill to explore in the area alongside a more magical than
strolling through
hospitality, carefree moments by the sea, and special playground, café, and souvenir shop. What better place the Butterfly Nature
events, such as the annual Routes in Marpissa festival, for a beautiful day out with your family? Reserve or visiting
a three-day occasion in August that celebrates the The castles, churches, and ruins of Paros give you an small fishing villages
village’s architecture, folklore, arts, and nature. It’s immersive glimpse into the island’s history, but its like Drios. Naoussa’s
picturesque white-
also home to the Sculpture Museum, exhibiting the museums can take you deeper still. Parikia features the washed streets and
works of native artist Nikos Perantinos. Archaeological Museum, which displays what excavations delicious cuisine are
A rather apt cultural centre, considering Paros is famous have brought to light, such as the famous statue of Gorgo just as stunning.

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