Alonissos – a look into the past

The historical photos give us a fascinating look at the old village of Chora and the port town of Patitiri. Today they allow us to look through a window into the past and experience the timeless magic of Alonissos.

“…I didn’t know or understand that I was photographing ways of life that would disappear ... donkeys replaced by tractors and cars; running water comes to houses eliminating the ubiquitous ladies carrying jugs of water or going to the river to do laundry ..."
Robert A. McCabe

Old village of Chora 


The photos show traditional life in the old village of Chora Alonissos. The residents go about their daily tasks. Women sit in front of the houses doing handicrafts, children play in the narrow streets. The atmosphere of the old village of Chora exudes a calm serenity that takes the viewer into a bygone era and reveals the impression of the residents' lives in harmony with nature.

Patitiri


After the earthquake in 1963, Patitiri developed into the port of Alonissos. The regular ferries were the lifeline of the island, linking Alonissos with the neighboring islands and the mainland, and their arrival brought a busy atmosphere to the port. The distinctive kaiki of fishermen who went out to sea in the early hours of the morning returned with their catch and dried their nets and as people eagerly waited for their loved ones from the mainland, they shared news and gossip. This joyful atmosphere remains alive in the memories of those who experienced it.