Karpathos is an island of rare, untamed beauty, with settlements of impressive architecture, a vibrant living tradition, and a rich heritage of archaeological remains from every period of its long history. Visit Karpathos and experience the unique feeling of exploring an island that resembles a vast open-air archaeological and folklore museum!
Natural landscapes
The route from Spoa to Olympos (or Elympos, as locals call it) runs along the backbone of Karpathos, offering breathtaking views of the wild landscape behind Mount Kimaras. On the left, dirt roads lead to the rural hamlets (metochia) of Achamantia, Argoni, and Pei, with their imposing cliffs. On the right, rugged paths descend to the secluded pebbly beaches of Agnodia, Agios Minas, Nati, and Forokli.
Surrounding Olympos rise grey mountains with sharp peaks, crowned by traditional windmills — a truly enchanting sight.
For stunning panoramic views, visit the mountain village of Othos. Often hidden in the clouds, Othos is the highest settlement on Karpathos (510 m) and its amphitheatrically built houses enjoy unmatched vistas.
Archaeological Sites – Monuments
At the entrance to Pigadia’s harbour stands “Vounos,” a 23-metre rock where remains of the ancient acropolis can still be seen. On the main road to Aperi, in the area of Afoti, lie the ruins of Fotini, an early Christian basilica (5th–6th century), built on the site of a sanctuary dedicated to the Dioscuri.
At “Mili,” in the Cave of Poseidon, a monumental carved tomb or sanctuary is believed to have been dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite.
Sixteen kilometres southwest of Pigadia is Arkasa, where the acropolis juts out into the sea against a backdrop of dramatic rocky hills. A climb up to Paleokastro rewards visitors with breathtaking views and ruins from antiquity through the Venetian and Ottoman periods. The continuous habitation of the area since prehistoric times is evident in its monuments.
In the picturesque fishing village of Finiki, just one kilometre from Arkasa, a bronze boat monument honours the heroes of the Resistance against German occupation.
In the seaside village of Lefkos, the islet of Sokastro preserves Byzantine and medieval ruins.
In Volada, 10 kilometres from Pigadia, you can find the remains of three castles built during different historical periods.
Other highlights worth visiting include:
- the neoclassical buildings of the Prefecture and the Customs House
- the Tomb of Digenis in the area of Lori – Aperi
- the Roman aqueducts in Lefkos
- ancient ruins near the church of Agios Nikolaos Cave
Museums
In Pigadia, you can visit the Archaeological Museum. Also worth seeing are the Folklore Museum of Menetes, the Ecclesiastical, Historical and Folklore Museum of Arkasa, and the Folklore Museum of Othos. These institutions showcase the island’s history and celebrate its customs and traditions.
Churches & Monasteries
Aperi, at 320 metres above sea level, was once the capital of Karpathos and remains the seat of the Bishop of Karpathos and Kasos — the smallest metropolitan seat in Greece.
Just two kilometres outside Pigadia, the church of Agia Kyriaki stands on a rock with a spectacular view.
The village of Menetes, built amphitheatrically on a hill, is known for its colourful houses and the 19th-century Church of the Assumption of the Virgin, considered miraculous. Nearby lies the church of Agios Mamas.
In Arkasa, the chapel of Agia Sophia stands on the site of an early Christian basilica (4th–6th century), whose remains can still be seen. The 5th-century church of Agia Anastasia preserves beautiful mosaics.
Other notable churches include:
- the 16th-century Church of the Assumption of the Virgin in Olympos, where a major festival is held every 15th of August
- Panagia Chrysovalantou in Olympos
- the Church of Agios Georgios in Lefkos
- the Church of St. Luke in Apella
- Panagia Vrysiani in Mesochori, named after the springs flowing beneath the church
Two kilometres beyond Aperi lies Kyra Panagia, with its famous red-domed church set dramatically against towering cliffs and a pebbly beach — one of Karpathos’ most iconic images.
Monasteries
- Monastery of Agios Georgios Vasses
- Agios Ioannis Cave (a deserted chapel built inside caves with stalactites, once fortified with battlements against pirates)
- Agios Nikolaos Cave (an ancient monastery built to protect sailors)