Antiparos

About

Antiparos is, as its name would suggest, directly opposite Paros and the ferry from Pounta takes a mere 6 minutes. Alternatively, unless it is very windy, there are regular boats from Paroikia. Antiparos has a much more relaxed vibe than Paros. At its heart is the main harbour, with whitewashed streets radiating past a plethora of boutiques, cafes, bars and restaurants. At the epicentre of the town, is the Venetian Castle of Antiparos, built in 1440, to protect the residents from pirates. This also forms the backdrop for a unique International Photography Exhibition outdoors in the Summer. The entrance is located next to the Cathedral of St. Nicholas.

Sights

Apart from the already mentioned charming and highly photogenic Kastro, there is the impressive cave of Antiparos near Agios Giorgos, with its stalactites and stalagmites; the gentle hilly landscape of the entire island which is easily circumnavigated by car, bike, bus or taxi; and, taking a boat from Ag. Giorgos the neighbouring islands of Despotiko, Tsimintiri, and Strogyllo.

Events

In Antiparos all churches and chapels are open and on their name day they celebrate. One of them is Agia Marina which is regularly visited because it is right in front of the harbor. On 15-17th of July there is a feast with laurels and violins by the locals, showing the hospitality and culture of the island with concerts, races, a triathlon, and displays of dancing. On 24-25th of June, Agios Ioannis Prodromos is celebrated, where the custom of Klidonas, the burning of woven flower circles, at the Harbor are represented. Panagia Faneromeni celebrates on 7-8th of September and is located in the enchanting cape, Petalida, where access is made either by fishing boat or by road. Last but not least, the feast of Agios Ioannis Spiliotis on 7-8th of May, is an organized feast in the courtyard area of ​​the Antiparos Cave.