Astypalaia

A Butterfly-Shaped Island

The westernmost island of the Dodecanese Group, Astypalaia, boasts a centuries-old history, whitewashed villages, deep blue sea waters and sun-drenched beaches. The island, seen from above, has two distinct sections joined by a narrow stretch of land less than 100 m. wide. The western part is known as Mesa Nisi [the inner island] and the eastern part as Exo Nisi [the outer island].

Chora is the island’s capital town and port. It is one of the most picturesque towns in the Aegean, perched on a rock that advances into the sea, forming two bays. On the top, you will see Chora’s castle towering over the town with the strikingly white domes of Evangelistria and Agios Georgios churches, visible over the walls. Around the castle lie Chora’s houses with whitewashed walls, blue doors and windows, and wooden balcony rails.