Attractions of Samos
In this article, we explore together the beautiful attractions of Samos.
The island offers an enchanting experience for every traveler. Let’s take a detailed look at the attractions of Samos that make it unique.
Abundance of archaeological sites
Filled with archaeological treasures and landmarks, Samos invites you to discover its history. Notable sites include the ruins of the Polycratean Walls, the Ancient Theater, the Roman Baths, the Eupalinos Tunnel, and, of course, the famous Heraion. According to tradition, Hera, the goddess, was born and raised here, and the Heraion is considered one of the greatest temples of its time, with the right of asylum.
Points of special Interest
The island of Samos, located in the northeastern Aegean, is a popular holiday destination that combines rich historical heritage, enchanting nature, and various nature-loving activities. Include in your holiday itinerary the following archaeological treasures: the Eupalinos Tunnel, the archaeological site of Heraion, the 6,430 meters long Polycrates Walls (6th century BCE), the Ancient Theater (4th century BCE), the Thermes or Roman Baths (2nd century CE), and the Byzantine castle of Pythagoreion (7th century CE).
Apart from these, it’s worth a detour to visit the wineries of Samos, as the island is famous for its exceptional white Muscat wine and the Museum of Samian Wine, one of the few oenological museums in Greece, in the area of Vathy.
Attractions of Samos – in detail
Eupalinos Tunnel
At an altitude of 320m on Mount Kerkis, you’ll find one of the most famous caves in Greece, the cave of the ancient Greek mathematician Pythagoras (also known as Sarantaskaliotissa’s Cave). The cave served various purposes, acting as a study, residence, and even a hiding place during Pythagoras’ persecution by the Tyrant Polycrates. The cave is visitable but requires caution due to its slippery terrain.
Achieving precise excavation into the ground, the great engineer of antiquity, Eupalinus from Megara, Attica, initiated the project in 550 BCE under the orders of Polycrates and completed it approximately 10 years later. This marvel of ancient Greek engineering has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992.
Eupalinos Tunnel
At an altitude of 320m on Mount Kerkis, you’ll find one of the most famous caves in Greece, the cave of the ancient Greek mathematician Pythagoras (also known as Sarantaskaliotissa’s Cave). The cave served various purposes, acting as a study, residence, and even a hiding place during Pythagoras’ persecution by the Tyrant Polycrates. The cave is visitable but requires caution due to its slippery terrain.
Achieving precise excavation into the ground, the great engineer of antiquity, Eupalinus from Megara, Attica, initiated the project in 550 BCE under the orders of Polycrates and completed it approximately 10 years later. This marvel of ancient Greek engineering has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992.
Pythagoras Cave
One of the most beautiful attractions of Samos. At an altitude of 320m on Mount Kerkis, we encounter one of the most famous caves in Greece, the cave of the ancient Greek mathematician Pythagoras (also known as the Cave of Sarantaskaliotissa).
The various uses of the cave by the Samian philosopher were diverse: it served as a study, a residence, and also as a hiding place during the time of persecution by the Tyrant Polycrates. The cave is open to visitors but requires great caution due to its slippery surface.
Archaeological museum of Pythagoreion
Explore the history of the ancient city, from the 4th millennium BCE to the 7th century CE, through 3,000 exhibits (including a Byzantine treasure of 300 coins, gold jewelry, compasses, sarcophagi, funerary columns, statues, etc.) at the Archaeological Museum of Pythagoreion, located in the center of the ancient city of Samos.
The uses of the cave by the Samian philosopher were diverse: it served as a study, a residence, and also as a hiding place during the time of his persecution by the Tyrant Polycrates. The cave is open to visitors but requires great caution due to its slippery surface.
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Archaeological site of Heraion
One of the most famous sanctuaries dedicated to Hera, the official sanctuary of the island and an Ionian center of worship. According to tradition, Hera was born and raised in the Heraion area, on the southeastern coast of Samos. The remarkable offerings to the goddess (unique works of art in marble, clay, glass, ivory, gold, and bronze) testify to the popularity of her worship, the international radiance of the sanctuary, and the cultural relations of the Samians with other regions of the Greek territory (Attica, Laconia, Crete) and the then-known world (Cyprus, Egypt, Syria, Asia Minor, Persia, Mesopotamia, etc.).
Samos will leave you with unforgettable impressions and the desire to return again and again.
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