Windmills
One of the most breath-taking sights is the windmills. Although non-operative nowadays, they still stand on the northeast side of Chora. Their original purpose was no other than producing the necessary goods by harvesting wind power. Apart from Ios, other islands were benefited by the use of windmills, bettering the residents' lives during difficult ages.
Palaiokastro
Palaiokastro lies at an easily accessible area in the northeast of the island, just before Psathi beach. It is actually the rubble of an old Byzantine castle, standing on top of a cliff, rising about 300 meters high from sea level. Apart from the old stone walls, one can see the church of Virgin Mary of Palaiokastro. The panoramic view of both Ios and the surrounding Cycladic islands will definitely make your visit an experience to remember.
Skarkos
One of the most remarkable archaeological monuments, is the Early Cycladic settlement of Skarkos. It constitutes the oldest and most well-known settlement of this era. Skarkos is a five-minute drive away from Ios port. The area is open for visitors, providing them with the chance to admire the monuments' architecture and the variety of objects that came to light from close up.
"Odysseas Elytis" Theatre
The theatre Odysseas Elytis, being the only building named after the Greek poet, is undoubtedly one of the most culturally important places for the Cyclades. It is located in the area of Tsoukalaria, just a few minutes walk from Chora's windmills. It has been built according to the model and aesthetics of the ancient Greek theatres. It is amphitheatrically built and is able to accommodate 1.100 viewers. The materials used for its building are white marble and stone, making it less susceptible to mid-summer's heat. Being built on a hillside, it offers a panoramic view of Mylopotas.
Homers' Grave
According to Herodotus, Homer, the worlds' greatest poet, was said to have been buried on the island's North side, at the area of Plakotos. Ios is the only area claiming his burial and this is based on the fact that the poet's mother, Kritheida, came from Ios. As soon as you arrive at the parking area, you need a five-minute walk to arrive at the grave. The view of the surrounding islands is mesmerising from up there.
Museums
The Archaeological museum of Ios is downtown, right next to the bus stop, in the City Hall. The museum hosts a great and important collection of ancient findings, deriving from the island's long history, dating back to the third millennium BC until the Roman Times. It is open daily, apart from Mondays, 8:00-15:00. For more information please contact
+30 22860 91246.