Samos

Samos , according to legend was the birthplace of Hera, the wife of Zeus. It is also the birthplace of Pythagoras, the ancient philosopher and mathematician. Samos is rich in flora and fauna. The scent of jasmine fills the air during the summer months, and with its good beaches, friendly atmosphere, Samos is a splendid destination for the tourist.

Samos Town (Vathy)

The capital and main port of Samos . With the old quarter of Ano Vathy with its 19 th century houses, the neoclassical mansions the town has retained some of its old charm. This is a lively town with bars and cafes along the waterfront. The Archaeological Museum has a 4.5m tall ”kouros” (statue) from the Archaic period, plus bronze and pottery artefacts.

Pythagorio

This charming port with its tree-lined streets on the southeast coast has become a very popular resort. It offers ancient sites to explore. In addition, with good cafes along the promenade, nightlife and bars the town makes a good base to discover the area. The Evpalinos Tunnel built in 524BC to lead water down to the town. It is feat of construction, workers started cutting through the rock at both ends and met in the middle. The Ireon, this sacred site said to be the place of birth of the Goddess Hera. The road from the town “The Sacred Way” lined with thousands of statues led to the temple, dedicated to the Goddess, It was four times the size of the Parthenon in Athens . Sadly, to say little remains of this edifice except the foundations. Other remains from this enormous complex are a basilica, stoa (portico) and ancient temples. Pythagorio stands on the location of the old city of Samos and is on the World Heritage list, as is The Ireon.

Mytolinii

Here one can see prehistoric skeletons of animals in the Museum of Palaeontology .

Manolates, and the village of Vourliotes , with their charming houses set in wonderful nature, should and must be on the agenda of the tourist.

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