Alonissos has a unique charm that subtly captivates people. Those who have experienced the magic of the island often feel an irresistible desire to return. But what exactly is it that reignites this "love" for Alonissos time and time again?
The island's untouched beauty is certainly a key reason. The stunning beaches, lush green hills, and picturesque coastlines offer a natural setting that truly takes your breath away. The crystal-clear water and abundant vegetation invite you to pause and savor the moment. The ever-changing views of the Aegean Sea and the sparkling starlit skies of clear nights create an atmosphere of romance and tranquility. Here, you won’t find crowded beaches or a bustling nightlife. Instead, the motto is "embrace the quiet." A “soothing boredom” is celebrated here. Alonissos is a place to unwind, forget about time, find peace, and enjoy a relaxed, unforgettable vacation.
To truly understand why people keep coming back, there is only one way: come and let yourself be enchanted. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll soon be one of those who can’t stay away!
History
The earliest records of the island’s history date back to 700 B.C. In 1538, the island suffered a devastating attack by the infamous pirate Barbarossa, during which nearly the entire population was wiped out. Many inhabitants lost their lives, while the survivors were either taken into slavery or fled the island. In the following decades, the island remained almost uninhabited until, towards the end of the 16th century, people gradually began to return from neighboring islands and the mainland. The main settlement developed in "Palia Chora," a high-altitude location at the southern end of the island. Initially, the village stretched within the protective walls of the Kastro, remnants of which are still visible in the upper part of the old village. Over time, the settlement expanded down the mountain, and the population steadily grew.
In 1965, a powerful earthquake shook the Northern Sporades, with Alonissos’s Chora being particularly hard hit. The residents had little choice but to leave their homes behind and move to the coast, where the new settlement and harbor, Patitiri, were established.
The old Chora of Alonissos remained largely abandoned until the 1980s, when Greeks and foreign visitors who had fallen in love with the island began buying and restoring the old village houses, reviving the beauty and charm of the “old village.” Soon, the village was once again full of life and ha become a multicultural melting pot where Greeks, Germans, English, French, Italians, and other nationalities live in their Mediterranean paradise.
Curious to know more? Discover the history of Alonissos in the chapter AROUND THE ISLAND – HISTORY, and learn how historical events have shaped the island and its people. Embark on a journey through Alonissos's fascinating past!