Paros - Greece

Paros, the beautiful island on the Aegean sea. With its quaint villages, crystal-blue sea, golden sands, mythical wind and rugged interior Paros has much to offer for diverse play, intense sport or just plain fun. Located in the heart of the Cyladic Islands, Paros is a typical Greece setting able to maintain tradition and charm while providing diversions and amenities for travellers from all over the globe.

TOURIST AND HISTORICAL SITES

Noteworthy among the many things to see and do on Paros is the famous Ekatontapyliani (Church of a hundred doors) located in the main town of Parikia. This stunning Byzantine cathedral was designed by an apprentice to the master
architect who built the glorious Agia Sofia in Constantinople. The church, open to visitors on most days, celebrated it's 1700th birthday in 1996, and is the oldest remaining Byzantine monument in Greece.

Paros is also home to the Marathi marble quarry, the most transluscent marble in the world. This marble, coveted by Classical sculptors and architects, created a livlihood in trade, ensuring the island's prosperity early on. Creations from Parian marble include the Venus de Milo, the Temple of Solomon, and in later times, part of Napolean's tomb. Visiting the quarry is a worthwhile activity just be sure you bring a flashlight!

Petaloudes, or butterfly valley, is a lush oasis amidst the arid mediterranean landscape. An annual temporary home to the migratory Jersey Tiger moth, this beautiful garden can be visited May through August. Located in the hills between Parikia and Aliki, a small entrance fee is required.

SHOPPING & SERVICES

Most of the larger villages have shops with traditional Greek fare including ceramic, leather, glass, jewelry and traditional fabrics and housewares. Cobbled footpaths wind through the whitewashed villages where boughs of bouganvilla and pots of geraniums color the backdrops. Naoussa, the second largest village on the island, has grown up around a fishing harbour that still flourishes today.

For your travelling needs Paros has post offices, banks, travel agencies, foreign newsstand, shipping and courier
services, laundry and dry cleaning, both a private and public medical center, dentists and veterinarian.

DINING & EATING

Greek food is delicious and varied, traditional dishes abound at numerous restaurants and taveranas throughout Paros. Local produce and fresh sea food enhance island specialties. Vegetarian meals can easily be found at most restaurants. In addition European fare is also widely available. If you choose to do your own cooking, or just want to picnic; the markets, green grocer, butcher and fish markets should easily satifsfy your palate.