Symi
Upon reaching the port of Symi, a beautiful painting unfolds beneath your eyes. A mountainous cove, full of traditional Neo-Classical houses built amphitheatrically and painted in vibrant colors, welcomes you to this heaven on earth! Myth has it that when the ancient Greek God of the Sea, Poseidon, gazed at Symi, it was love at first sight!
An islet true to its traditions and history, Symi is a Seafarer
Island and a place where century old craftsmanship and customs are preserved to
this day.
Make sure to get a natural sea Sponge which is one of the
trademarks of Symi. For more than 100 years, most the Inhabitants were involved
with the Natural Sea Sponge business. Free divers and Divers with the Old
School Iconic Brass helmets have a long history here in Symi. Sponge diving was
a hazardous profession and people involved were very courageous! A fascinating
fact is that the Antikythera Shipwreck, one of the most important
archaeological findings of the modern days, was discovered by a Symi Sponge
Diver, named Fotis Lindiakos.
Here you may witness a traditional craftsmanship that goes back centuries, the Wooden Ship building art. The Symi Wooden Boat Shipbuilders where famous for their builds for providing spectacular seaworthiness! Nowadays, the last guard of these craftsmen are building only a handful of these handmade boats. A multi century old art will soon become extinct and you do not have a lot of time to waste, so take a trip to Symi soon!
Another fascinating craft is the traditional Church Bell tower making. Still using the old school methods to this day and building bells for Churches around Greece!
Town
Symi town is a true work of art, one of the most well-preserved
Neo-Classical settlements in Greece. And what better way to caption this
scenery by walking in its numerous alleys. Feel free to wonder around it’s
Amphitheatrical setting and marvel at the beautiful century old architecture! Start
from the first Old settlement in the top of the hill and explore the complex
system of alleys that resembles a labyrinth. Then, descend to the upper town or
“Chorio” as the locals say and explore these unique neighborhoods that lead to
colorful squares. Make your way down to the seaside and stroll along the relaxing
blue waters. Make sure to visit the leather shop for their handmade pyrography art,
it is worth it!
Outskirts
Venturing in the Outskirts do not miss to take a boat ride
to the unique Agios Georgios Disalonas beach. A natural landscape full of
Crystal Turquoise waters and imposing rocky background.
Symi is a Spiritual Island where religion is integral part of the inhabitants’ culture. So, to experience true devoutness, travel to the windless bay of Panormos where you will find the
Monastery of Taxiarchis Michail Panormitis. It is said that during mass, the believers feel the presence of Archangel Michail who is the patron Saint of Symi.
When hunger knocks at the door, hit one of the many traditional taverns for a Gastronomical Paradise! Order some Symi Garidaki (small shrimp), a deep-fried delicacy found only in this island. Also try out the Gaelopitakia, a delicious pie made from fresh small smelt fish. For dessert, try the Akoumia, a sweet dumpling that is ideal to finish a perfect meal! As for other numerous local delicacies, these wait for you to discover them during your journey to Symi!