Cyclades

Cyc lades Islands – Under the Spell of the Aegean Light

The Greek word Kyklos means circle. In the center of the Aegean Sea lie the 31 main Cycladic islands along with around 200 smaller, uninhabited islands arranged in a circular formation – hence the name “Cyclades.” The western Cyclades include Kea, Kythnos, Kimolos, Milos, Serifos, and Sifnos. The eastern Cyclades comprise the sacred, ancient, and now uninhabited island of Delos, as well as Andros, Tinos, and the world-famous island of Mykonos. In the center lie Paros, Naxos, and Syros, while to the south are Folegandros, Sikinos, Ios, Anafi, Amorgos, and the impressive volcanic island of Santorini.

Poets, writers, painters, and architects have long been fascinated by the incomparable beauty of the Cyclades: the magical light of the Aegean enveloping rugged landscapes, the dazzling white cube-shaped houses with their winding alleys, the countless chapels, the deep blue sea, and the fine sandy beaches.

The Cyclades were already inhabited during the Neolithic period and later developed highly advanced civilizations. In particular, Delos, Naxos, Milos, Santorini, and Kea are renowned for their rich ancient treasures.

Today, the Cyclades are considered the jewel of Greece, one of the finest showcases of Greek tourism, and home to some of the most photographed landscapes in the country. They are not only a popular holiday destination for visitors from around the world, but also a favored place to live for many Greeks. The better-known islands – Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Naxos, and Syros – stand for beauty, elegance, and simple perfection. Yet the lesser-known Cycladic islands such as Folegandros, Sikinos, and Amorgos also enchant visitors with their authenticity and unspoiled charm.