Old Town, Naxos, Greece
Naxos Town is the capital and main harbour of the island of Naxos Greece. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful Cycladic villages in the entire group for it has a fine architecture, composed of Venetian and Cycladic elements. Naxos Town has kept an authentic and traditional character and a strong local colour.
This large town is located on the west coast of Naxos and, on its top, stands an impressive Venetian castle, characteristic and trademark of the island. This marvelous construction has been built following the orders of Marco Sanudo who conquered the Cyclades in 1207 and used Naxos Island as the seat of the Duchy of the Aegean which he created.
The castle (called Kastro in Greek) was containing Sanudo’s residence as well as the various institutions and administrations of the duchy. It was designed by an engineer and has a pentagonic shape, built according to Venetian architecture with beautiful buildings, mansions, monuments and churches standing on the paved narrow streets. It is a beautiful and charming place that has kept its medieval atmosphere. In the castle’s area is the Archaeological Museum of Naxos, housed in an old Jesuit Commercial school. In the northern part of the capital a long paved road leads to the islet of Palatia (Palaces) where stand the unfinished Temple of Apollo and the trademark of the island, the famous Portara (Big Door) which is the gate of the temple.
Visit Greece. Epic Greece Adventure Route © Monika Newbound
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