‘Did you Knows’- Mykonos
When you think of Mykonos what comes to mind? Sun-kissed bays, whitewashed windmills, maze-like alleys, pictorial chapels and late night partying combined with a cosmopolitan and glamorous flair. Does that sum it up? Well, that is basically what most know about Mykonos since it is one of the most popular holiday destinations of our times!
But there is more. Did you know that:
1. Mykonos belongs to the Cyclades archipelago? The cluster of 33 islands that are included in the Cyclades cluster were named after the cyclical structure they form around Delos, the sacred island of the Greek Gods.
2.The whitewashed architectural-style towns that characterise the Cycladic islands were introduced by Ioannis Metaxas, a former prime minister, in the beginning of the 20th century?
3.Petros the Pelican, Mykonos favourite mascot, was actually named after a local fisherman? Petros the Mykonian fisherman was executed during World War II by the Germans.
4.Mykonos is home to more than 800 churches? In fact, 80 of the churches found in Chora, the capital town of the island, have been designated as history museums.
5.The island’s most photographed church, Panagia Paraportiani was named after the tiny door (paraporti-small or side door) which used to link the church with the nearby medieval castle?6.Mykonos local cheese, Kopanisti is an official protected designation of origin product?
7.The ship, Anna II, sunk in sea just off the famed Lia Beach in 1995? It is actually a popular diving site that all holidaymakers should explore!
8.The official emblem of the island is a large lizard? True fact!
9.Haloukia Beach is a natural designated bay protected by the Ministry of Culture? In fact, it is illegal to even remove a speck of sand or pebble from the untouched and secluded bay!
10.Mykonos organises more than 70 festivals every year. Most take place during the summer season! Let the games begin!
That’s all for now Mykonos enthusiasts! Stay tuned for more… or book your holiday now at our luxury hotel Mykonos Theoxenia!