LOCATION

Agios Petros is the place name of a small “vala” on the east coast of Alonissos, almost half way along the southeastern coastline of the island. While looking eastwards you can see the island of Peristera (Xiro) and the bay of Vassiliko (local dialect: Vassilkos), a natural harbour sheltered from the wind.From Agios Petros, while looking at the sea to the south east, one can see the “Nisaki”, a small rocky island detached from the point of the “vala” as a result of geological changes over the centuries. Many young children who grew up here learned how to swim by aiming to “conquer” the island, while for elder children this represented the finishing point of their contests.

It is here, among the rocky fissures, that “kritama’” (Crithum maritimum, Samphire in English) grows. Often our parents visited Nisaki so that they could cut some kritama for salads for the coming days. It was people’s perspective then that “ikonomia” (economy, resource management) was about dealing with nature’s commodities in the best possible way, according to everyday needs. For this reason they made sure that they cut kritama from the upper part of the plant and did not disturb the roots. In this way, as the centuries passed and even until present times, they protected the plant’s survival and natural reproduction.

Nisaki was the challenge and the fear, the ordeal, but also ultimately the proof of the ability of the young to operate the boats that our families possessed. The very short distance separating the rocky outcrop from the island itself, and the shallow waters with their small reefs on one side, required special skills. It was the most important initiation in becoming a boat captain and the passport to faith in one’s ability to handle long distance explorations and trips. Nisaki was the proving ground for the young, aspiring spear-fishermen since it was there that the first dives and attempts to catch fish took place. It was also the meeting place for the young people’s first flirtations, away from the inquisitive stares from the beach. It is odd to think that such a small, rocky island witnessed so many stories and keeps hidden so many secrets!

Alonissos has always been a land rich in flora and fauna. The Mediterranean climate of the island in conjunction with a variety of factors such as the limited exploitation of natural resources and intact landscape, make up a beautiful natural habitat and reserve for many endangered species of the terrestrial or marine flora and fauna.
It will not take too much time for anyone visiting the island to notice the intense diversity of fauna that exists here, in all species of the animal kingdom such as fish, birds, reptiles and mammals. Some of those species are extremely rare or threatened by extinction. One of the most emblematic animals found in the area is the wild goat of Gioura which is often related to the Cretan wild goat despite the apparent differences. The wild goat of Gioura is on the verge of extinction, thus it is considered an under protection species.

The most emblematic species in Alonissos though, which is also under protection, is the Mediterranean monk seal Monachus-Monachus. The particular species is one of the most endangered ones in Europe, therefore the fact that the two thirds of them have chosen the Marine Park of Alonissos as their home, indicates the good condition of the area’s marine environment. Other benthic and ocean species found here are dolphins and whales, numerous fish like the meditteranean moray, but what adorns the particular waters the most, is the presence of the precious red coral. Overall, it is estimated that three hundred fish species live in the whole area, while the total number of bird species flying over Alonissos, is estimated to be about eighty, among the rarest ones is Eleonora’s Falcon.
Of course a land rich in fauna presupposes a land rich in flora. From the very first sight, it is obvious that Alonissos constitutes an intensely green land. This greenness derives from the imposing and myriad oaks that generate the island’s color as well as the emerald color of the Alonissian waters. In spite of that, the island’s flora-trademark are the miraculous herbs which have significantly contributed to the growth of its medical tradition. Just a single stroll around the island during the months of June and July is enough in order to find some of them such as oregano wild sage, etc.

However, the medical tradition of the island does not stop here. Alonissos is also known for the International Academy of Classical Homeopathy which promotes the island’s medical tourism as well. One of the numerous stops you will make, while exploring the island, it should definitely be there. Few words about the Academy would be that it was founded in 1995 by the Professor George Vithoulkas who has been awarded with the Alternative Nobel Prize. Its aim is to educate medical students, doctors and other health professionals to become classical homeopaths and also evolve into an international center that conducts research and knowledge sharing with other similar centers worldwide. Finally, every year, during the summer months, groups of doctors from various countries all over the world visit Alonissos in order to be trained at the Academy. In conclusion, Alonnisos is a natural paradise that provides both to its inhabitants and visitors many precious gifts, provided that they respect it and avoid over-exploitation of it.

The Old Village is situated up on the hill in a privileged location, offering a fantastic 360o view to the Aegean Sea. It was the capital of the island until 1965 when a devastating earthquake forced the local population to leave their father-lands and settle to Patitiri. However, in the last decades, Chora has reclaimed its traditional character and beauty as most of the destroyed buildings were restored. Today the village with its stone-built houses, the paved alleys and the ornate doors in the blooming courtyards, is the land-mark of the Alonissian architecture. By all means, visitors should not miss the sunset view from the Old Village which is among the most amazing ones in Greece.

Patitiri is the main port and capital of the island. The name Patitiri – which in Greek means “wine press” – dates back to ancient times when winery was the main source of income for the locals. At the port you will find several taverns and cafes to choose from. Furthermore, you will find amenities such as super-markets, tourist offices, health center, bank, post office etc. Next to the port, there is a small beach with clean, crystal blue waters surrounded by rough cliffs and pine trees. By nightfall these cliffs are artificially illuminated, creating an atmosphere that will certainly be captured in your heart for a lifetime.

The Alonissos (Pirate) Museum is the perfect place for an exciting journey to the past of this island. It is a source of historical and cultural information about an island with fascinating history. Its collections are hosted in an impressive stone-built building at Patitiri. The visitor will see how life on the island was a few decades ago, through utensils of everyday life, outfits and traditional items such as oil presses. The pirate artefact area, at the first floor of the museum presents a remarkable collection of ancient weapons and items retrieved from old warships and pirate ships.