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<< Back to guides
Archaeological sites
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1. PORTARA
Portara is the monument which impresses tourists the most. Over the centuries, the local people have given it the name Portara, which means "huge door". This monument is a gigantic marble gateway into what was once a temple dedicated to god Apollon. The temple was built in the 6th century, when Naxos was a prominent naval, commercial and cultural centre. Here, as it is said, Theseus deserted Ariadne and from here Dionysus kidnapped her. Also, the sunset from Portara is a marvel, an unforgettable experience |
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2. The statue of KOUROS
Melanes is a village built in one of the greenest valleys on the island, where the running water was used to set in motion the now deserted water mills. Near Melanes, there is a half finished statue of a Kouros which has been left lying in an olive grove, just in the place where the ancient sculptors left it. It dates from the 7th century BC and it is one of the best known statues of this kind in Naxos. |
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3. TEMPLE OF DEMETER
From Sagri, the road continues to the ancient temple of Demeter, a place where sacred rites were performed, to honour the goddess. The sanctuary of Giroula, one of the most important monuments on the island, was built entirely out of white marble (the roof included). There is evidence of a connection between the sanctuary of Giroula and the Eleusinian mysteries. Now it is used as an exhibition area. |
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4. IRIA
Between Glinado and the sea, in Iria, are the remains of the sanctuary of god Dionysus. The temple at Iria (580-550 BC), together with the sanctuary at Giroula, is architecturally considered forerunners of the Parthenon. The sanctuary was used continuously until the Roman period. Restoration work on the monument has been completed and the area is open to public. |
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5. BYZANTINE MONUMENTS
The dawn of Christianity (4th century AD) finds Naxos in a state of obscurity. From that date, the Christians start building various churches and monasteries, some decorated with high quality frescoes. The most beautiful Byzantine monuments are: The monastery of Timios Stavros, which has been recently restored and hosts a render of cultural events.
The monastery of Fotodotis in Danakos and the monastery of Panagia Ipsilotera.
There is also a large number of churches, dating from the 6th century in the area of Tragea, such as Panagia Protothroni, Agios Georgios Diasoritis, Panagia Damiotissa and Panagia Drosiani.
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