Amorgos Island is part of the islands known as the Cyclades; the population of the island is believed to be around 2,000. Amorgos is the easternmost island in the Cyclades chain and is believed that Ionians were the first to use the island as a stopover point on their way to either the larger islands of the Cyclades chain or to mainland Greece.
There has been found the remains of three ancient cities on the island that have been preserved as some of the amazing things to be found are stone tools, ancient towers and tombs, many vases and other artifacts that show that the island was indeed inhabited in ancient times.
Amorgos remains today unspoiled and the people are warm and friendly, the pride of the island is the Monastery of Hozoviotissa and the Agios Fanourios. The Monastery is something to see as it hugs the cliffs some 300 meters above the sea. Its striking beauty is in deep contrast to the surrounding cliffs and makes this an eye-catching view; visitors are allowed to visit the Monastery but must be dressed appropriately, with men in long sleeves and women in either long skirts or pants. In contrast to the largess of the Monastery of Hozoviotissa is the Agios Fanourios which is believed to be the smallest chapel to be found in Greece as it only allows for two people at a time inside.
Amorgos itself is most famous as the island where Luc Besson filmed “The Big Blue.” The island is not built for the tourist trade and maintains its charming “Greekness” and traditions, it is the perfect place to go to relax and just enjoy life. The area does boast many white sand beaches with sparkling blue water for you to frolic in or to just take pleasure in. You can find windmills and white washed houses in the picturesque villages of Amorgos.
Amorgos is by no means a “party” island but for nightlife you can find a few bars or a disco, the food is often the traditional fish taverns but there are a few other places that offer pizza and pasta. There are a few shops for those that are looking for souvenirs to take home, and for visiting around the island there is car or bike rental available.
For the most part Amorgos is a strikingly beautiful island and while having limited attractions it does offers many quaint traditional villages along with some of the most magnificent beaches along with the amazing cliff side views. This is the place for those who want to truly relax and enjoy the natural beauty around them.
“Amorgos Greece” In2Greece
“Monastery of Hozoviotissa” Greeka.com
“The Big Blue” IMBD