Naxos, 84300 | 24/7
Naxos, 84300 | 24/7
Constructed between 530-520 BC, the Temple of Demeter predates the Parthenon by approximately a century. Although it was dedicated to Apollo, it also honors Demeter and her daughter Persephone. Demeter, the goddess of agriculture and fertility, inspired the temple's placement in a lush valley near the village of Sangri.
In the village of Damalas, the unique ceramics crafted by potter Manolis Libertas stand out. This exquisite art form has been passed down through generations since the late 19th century. The workshop offers a variety of traditional kitchenware, including beautiful hulls, alongside many other decorative and practical items.
Nestled on the Tragaia plateau at an elevation of 270-280 meters, Halki is a charming village in central Naxos. Renowned for its neoclassical mansions and distinctive architecture, it offers visitors the chance to explore the citrus museum, sample its unique distillates, and purchase them. Strolling through the traditional alleys and visiting the local shops adds to the village's unique appeal.
Situated at the base of Mount Zas, Filoti is a semi-mountainous village in central Naxos, about 18.2 km from Chora. It is the largest village on Naxos and one of the largest in the Cyclades. Comprising three settlements—Rachidi, Klefaros, and Liouri—it lies at the foot of the island's highest peak, Zas. The Church of Panagia Filotitissa, a basilica dating back to 1718, stands out, having been built on the site of an older Byzantine church. Filoti thrives on livestock products, agriculture, and a burgeoning tourism sector. Visitors can explore numerous folklore museums, the church of Panagia, and a variety of shops selling tourist items and traditional products. Local cafes and taverns offer delicious meats and cheeses from free-range animals.
Apeiranthos is a mountain village in Naxos, located 28 km from the island's capital, with an elevation ranging from 570 to 640 meters on the eastern slopes of Mount Fanari. Recognized as a traditional settlement since 1978, the village is built around two 17th-century towers that once belonged to Frankish landowners. It also features the Museum of Fine Arts and an Archaeological Museum housing artifacts primarily from the Cycladic era of the 3rd millennium BC.
