There are places that don't simply stumble upon you – they captivate you. With their atmosphere, their radiance, and a quiet, almost mysterious beauty. Alonissos is such a place. An island that seems tailor-made for warm summer evenings, for long conversations under sparkling stars, for delicious food, cheerful company – and for that unmistakable feeling of life that only the south can bestow. Once you've experienced the magic of Alonissos, it won't easily fade away.
The unspoiled landscape is one of the island's greatest treasures. Gentle hills, dense pine forests, and picturesque bays that nestle against the Aegean Sea like a painting define the scenery. The beaches are mostly quiet and pristine, and the sea shimmers in every shade from turquoise to emerald.
Whether enjoying a glass of wine in a taverna, strolling through the charming village of Chora, or gazing out over the sparkling sea – on Alonissos, a feeling of timelessness washes over you. Romance, authenticity, and the Mediterranean lifestyle combine to create an unforgettable atmosphere. Here, far from crowded beaches and hectic nightlife, the motto is: "Embrace tranquility." Here, boredom can once again be something beautiful – an invitation to forget time, to savor the moment, and to rediscover your inner peace.
To understand why so many visitors return time and again, there's only one way: come and be enchanted. And perhaps, just perhaps, you too will soon be among those who can't stay away!
History
The history of Alonissos dates back to the 7th century BC. However, a pivotal event dramatically altered the island's fate: In 1538, the infamous pirate Barbarossa attacked Alonissos. His devastating assault nearly wiped out the entire population – many inhabitants lost their lives, and the survivors were either enslaved or forced to flee their homeland. For the next several decades, Alonissos remained almost deserted until, towards the end of the 16th century, settlers gradually returned from the neighboring islands and the mainland.
The first larger settlement arose in Palio Chora, a hilltop village in the south of the island. Initially, life was concentrated within the protective walls of the Kastro (castle), the remains of which can still be seen in the upper part of the old village. Over time, the settlement expanded down the hillside, and the population steadily increased.
Another defining event occurred in 1965 when a powerful earthquake struck the Northern Sporades. The Chora of Alonissos was particularly hard hit. Many residents were forced to abandon their destroyed homes and relocate to the coast, where they founded the new town and port of Patitiri. The old Chora remained deserted for decades until the 1980s, when Greeks and foreign visitors rediscovered its beauty. They began lovingly restoring the old houses, breathing new life into the village.
Today, the once-abandoned Chora shines once again with Mediterranean splendor – as a vibrant, international meeting place where people from all over the world – Greeks, English, Germans, French, Italians, and many others – have found their shared 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!