Chora (Central village of Astypalaia)
Built in the Cycladic style, Chora dressed in white, spreads on a hillside retreating into the sea, and is crowned by the Venetian Castle, built by the noble Quirini family, offering a breathtaking view to its visitors. In the castle there are two all-white churches with ornate towers, the Virgin of the Castle (Evangelistria) and Saint George. On the mountainside, stand eight stone windmills, most of them have been renovated and used by the municipality for cultural events during the annual festival and as a tourist information office.
Panagia Portaitissa
The white church in Chora situated below the castle is certifiably one of the most picturesque in the Dodecanese. Built in mid-18th century, its wooden decorations, covered in gold foil, are unique in their kind. On August 14th & 15th, a grand feast takes place in the church’s inner yard, where is served the traditional roasted lamb among other unique local delicacies.
Cultural Events
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Agios Panteleimon feast on July 27th and Sotiras Christos feast (Christ Saviour) on August 6th.
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The island’s biggest celebration takes place at Panagia Portaitissa church on Panagia’s feast (August 15th) and lasts for three days (August 14th-16th). On August 16th, the municipal authority and the Cultural Organisation arrange special sports contests called “Koukania”.
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Panagia Poulariani feast & Panagia tou Thoma feast, at Vathi on September 8th.
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Astypalaia Festival, involving many concerts, theatre plays, traditional dances, painting/photo exhibitions and other events throughout the summer season.
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Cine Avra : open air cinema at Pera Gialos.
Hiking Trails
Exploring Astypalaia’s walking and hiking trails is one of the most rewarding and enjoyable ways of exploring the great outdoors. One gets the chance to breathe in fresh air, get the time to absorb the island’s natural beauty and explore spots of geological, natural or archeological interest.
Check out a detailed description of each trail below
Daily Boat Trips
Spend a day on a boat trip to explore the unspoiled and uninhabited islets of Kounoupa and Koutsomitis with fabulous water to swim or to enjoy the underwater world with a mask, fins and snorkel.
