Page 68 - BLISS-2024

BLISS_Kalymnos island

KALYMNOS IS THE PERFECT
DESTINATION FOR EXPLORERS,
A WHOLESOME AND EXCITING
TAPESTRY OF THE ISLAND’S
PAST AND PRESENT.

N estled between Kos and Leros, Kalym- down through the generations. Merchants and
nos is a hidden gem of the Dodecanese.
sea captains made their fortunes on Kalymnos
It beckons intrepid travellers with its
tiful homes. Neoclassical and Italian styles still
semi-tamed allure and vibrant culture. Rug- and displayed their wealth through their beau-
ged coastlines and whispers of ancient history dot key areas like Chorio, Vathy, and Pothia.
promise to take you on a journey beyond the Kalymnos left its unique mark on the 20th cen-
ordinary, where every moment unfolds with the tury, too, after its sponge divers inspired a folk Panormos is one of many enchanting villages around Kalymnos. While there, visit the Church of St. Athanasios in the Monastery of the Holy Cross.
magic of discovery. song that became globally famous in the 70s. Dir-
lada was first written by Captain Pantelis Ginnis
A TIMELESS LEGACY about his crew, its lyrics a playful satire. Greek
6,000 years of history lie on the shores and sailors sang it as they travelled the world, and
heights of Kalymnos. Sailors and sponge har- the catchy tune spread like wildfire to France,
vesters called it home while plying their trade Japan, and beyond.
across the seas and keeping pirates at bay. How-
ever, war and politics influenced the island’s sta- ISLE OF PLENTY
tus and appearance the most. The complex her- Today, Kalymnos is the perfect destination for
itage of Kalymnos is evident in its architecture, explorers, a wholesome and exciting tapestry of
landmarks, and archaeological finds, all proving the island’s past and present. There’s no shortage
that its cultural links transcend Greece. Hints of activities, whether you like solo getaways or
of Persia, the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman big parties, lavish relaxation or gritty adventures,
empires, and Italian Colonialism exist through- food tourism or cultural immersion.
out the island. Each area of Kalymnos has something special
Early Christianity was another influencing fac- to offer. The best city living, for instance, can be
tor. The town of Pothia, the current capital of found at Pothia, the urban centre of Kalymnos
Kalymnos, was once watched over by the Temple and the setting of our Evanik Chic Hotel. Pretty,
of Apollo Delios. After its destruction, its stones colourful neighbourhoods dotted with pictur-
were used to build the Basilica of Christ of Jerusa- esque restaurants, cafés, and shops hug the har-
lem, now a relic itself. Many more holy sites were bour and serene blue sea, boats great and small
constructed over the ages, including the Mon- bobbing with the current.
asteries of Agios Savvas and Panagia Kyra Psili. If you prefer pure oasis vibes, Vathy is 13km to
The Knights of St. John even built Chrysocheria the northeast of Pothia. The village lies between
Castle, its ruins still encompassing the church of two hills, stretching through a lush green valley
Panagia Chrysochera and overlooking Chorio towards the Rina fjord, sporting its own eater-
village, the island’s former capital. ies, shops, accommodation, and harbour. Sit on
But Kalymnos is best known for its sponge div- the shore, sipping your iced coffee and playing
ing industry, a centuries-old tradition passed backgammon with the locals. Or dive into the

68 69