Kalymnos Pothia Town

More about Pothia

One of the most impressive buildings is the Town Hall standing in the heart of the town, constructed by the Italians in the Venetian Style in the early 20th century. Worthwhile is the metropolitan church of the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ which houses an authentic iconostasis made by sculptor Yannoulis Chalepas. The Monastery of Agios Savvas is located just above the port and boasts wonderful stone and red-tile features.

The Castle of Cryssocheria is one of the most historically important sights on the island. Lying on a hill that overlooks the capital and the neighboring Chorio, it was constructed by the Knights of Saint John during their rule of the island from the 14th to the 15th century. This imposing structure houses the well-preserved Church of Panagia Cryssocheria which features some vibrant Byzantine frescoes. Those interested in diving deeper into the history of the island can visit the Arcaheological Museum where findings from prehistoric to post-byzantine times are displayed. The Folklore Museum and the Maritime Museum are also worth a visit while in the area.

The green valley offers an enchanting scenery and is the most beautiful part of the town. Houses lie amidst the lush green trees between the imposing hills. Hiking trails will take you through the stunning mountainous landscapes and gorgeous caves and provide some great panoramic viewpoints. Several beaches are found close to Pothia such as the scenic Gefira Beach and Therma Beach.

Apart from the natural beauty, visitors will enjoy many modern amenities, like shops, banks, and an open-air cinema. The town’s waterfront is dotted with a wide array of picturesque cafes and traditional restaurants, serving authentic Mediterranean dishes in some beautiful seaside environments. For a more lively night out, visit one of the various nightclubs that play loud music and stay open till the early morning hours. A plethora of accommodations for all tastes and budgets are also present in the area.

Visitors can easily move around Pothia by bus, with hourly bus routes passing through the town. Taxis are a more expensive option but are more convenient and usually readily available as there is a taxi stand located close to the harbor. However, renting a vehicle is by far the most convenient option, with car rental agencies lying right next to the port.