High above the beach of Patitiri, the privately run Alonissos Museum of Kostas and Angela Mavrikis invites visitors on a fascinating journey through the island’s history. It stands as a testament to the dedication of Kostas and Angela Mavrikis, who have lovingly collected and preserved the cultural heritage of Alonissos.
In the carefully curated exhibition rooms, visitors can discover a wide variety of artifacts.
One of the most impressive exhibitions is dedicated to the pirates of the Aegean, who once found refuge among the rocky islets surrounding Alonissos. This collection includes pirate weapons, tools, and other objects connected to their lives and activities.
Other exhibits showcase traditional costumes, household items, and craft tools, offering a vivid glimpse into the everyday life of Alonissos’s past inhabitants.
The museum is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
In the old village of Palio Chora, right at the entrance to the Kastro, the Traditional Alonissos House welcomes visitors. With authentic furniture, household items, and traditional details, it tells the story of a simple yet fulfilling life from times past.
Just a few steps away, the War Memorial in the Kastro commemorates the tragic events of World War II, in which residents of Alonissos also lost their lives. This memorial is an important site, honoring the victims and preserving the memory of those who perished during this dark chapter in the island’s history.
Nature and sea lovers should not miss the MOm Information Centre in Patitiri. The exhibition takes visitors into the fascinating underwater world of the Mediterranean and highlights the dedicated conservation efforts to protect the endangered Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) – the symbolic animal of Alonissos. It’s an experience that combines knowledge with inspiration for marine conservation.
A highlight of the summer is the Festival of Traditional Dances, held during the first week of July. In a festive atmosphere, dancers and ensembles from all over Greece gather to showcase the diversity of Greek folklore and music in colorful traditional costumes. A captivating spectacle full of vitality, it brings the cultural soul of the island vividly to life.
On August 15th, the Feast of the Assumption, Alonissos’ cultural life reaches its magnificent peak. In the picturesque old village, a unique tradition comes alive: the Panigiri with a re-enactment of a traditional wedding. Accompanied by music, dance, and culinary delights, the wedding procession winds through the narrow alleys – from the groom’s house to the bride’s. During the celebrations, the traditional dish Katsiki me hilopites (goat with pasta) is served. With wine, music, and dancing, locals and visitors alike share an unforgettable celebration of Greek joy and hospitality.
Underwater Museum and Knowledge Awareness Centre
In 2020, Greece inaugurated its first underwater museum off the coast of Alonissos, also known as the "Parthenon of Shipwrecks."
This large ship from around 425 BC was carrying thousands of wine amphorae from Peparithos (now Skopelos) and Mendi (Chalkidiki) when it likely encountered a storm and sank.
The thousands of intact amphorae covering the seabed around the wreck provide an remarkable glimpse into the size and shape of the ancient merchant ship. It was discovered by a fisherman from Alonissos in 1985 at a depth of 28 meters. (See also the books section). Visitors have the opportunity to explore the underwater museum during the diving season, which runs until early october. Licensed guides from the diving centers in Alonissos accompany divers to this remarkable historical site. Divers must book their dive at least a week in advance.
For those who cannot or do not wish to dive, there is an opportunity to experience the wreck virtually. The Knowledge Awareness Center in the Old Village has created an exhibition about the ancient wreck, allowing a virtual dive into the region. Opening hours in season 7 P.M. to 10 P.M.