Ios Sights & Attractions

Skarkos is an early Bronze Age settlement found in Ios. It is the most important prehistoric archaeological site of the Cyclades and is located only a few kilometers from the port of Ios.

The church of Panagia Gremiotissa is the trademark of the island. It stands on a high hill above Chora and stands out for the palm tree on its side.

The quaint windmills on a hill above Chora are not functional but have been restored and stand as samples of traditional Cycladic architecture.

The Archaeological Museum of Ios is located in the center of Chora and it is housed in the Amiradakio Hall. It exhibits various archaeological findings unearthed on the island.

According to the myth, at the end of his life, Homer returned to the homeland of his mother and died there. Scientists believe that his tomb is located on the northern side of the island but the site is almost abandoned today.

There is nothing but a few remains of the Venetian Castle of Ios nowadays. Those are located in the region of Paleokastro, between Agia Theodoti and Psathi. The castle had visual contact with Apalyros Castle in Naxos and helped to control the inner area.

The lighthouse of Ios is located in the area of Koumbara, in a close distance from Ormos village. It is easily accessible on foot.

This open theatre close to Chora was named after the Nobel-winner Greek poet, Odysseas Elytis. Many cultural events on Ios in summer take place there. This was Elytis' favorite spot in Ios because of the breathtaking view it offers.

Located in the center of Chora, the Cathedral of Ios is an imposing whitewashed church with blue domes in accordance with the standards of traditional Cycladic architecture. Its interior is beautiful and hosts several holy icons.

Agia Aikaterini is a whitewashed church with an austere and elegant interior. Archaeologists claim that the church has been built on the remains of the ancient temple of Apollo.

The Monastery of Agios Ioannis in Ios is a wonderful temple housing white Cycladic-like designs, a church, a handful of monks, some guest rooms, and two yearly celebrations.