Named after the porous stones mined from this island, Skyros is rich in culture with its history running deep into the Neolithic times, ranging from 5500 to 2800 BC.
According to Greek Mythology, Achilles was hidden on this island by his mother Thetis, as she knew that Achilles would meet a tragic end, if he took part in the Trojan War. Thetis asked for the help of Lycomedes, the king of the island, who kept Achilles in his own castle. Achilles soon fell in love with the beautiful daughter of Lycomedes, Deidamea and gave birth to a son, Pyrros. |
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Another great hero Theseus is believed to have died on this island, killed by the king of the island Lycomedes, who perceived him as a threat to his throne. Though, under the occupation of Cimon, the remains of Theseus were returned to Athens.
The island of Skyros has seen many rulers and civilizations during its term so far. The Pelasgians, who built huge walls as a part of their cities, initially inhabited Skyros. Their walls formed the foundation for the following settlers. At around 475 BC, Cimon took over Skyros and distributed the land among the Athenian aristocrats. |
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Skyros saw a change of ownership again in 1204 when the Crusaders captured Constantinople and the island was passed into the hands of Venetians, who built a strong fortress to protect Skyros from enemies and pirates.
At the later end of the 14th |
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