Karpathos Olympos
• General info • Hotels • Things to do & See • Map • Members Photos (471) • Greeka Photos (13) • Write a review!
Hotels in Olympos
Olympos Archipelagos
$$The excellent villa apartments of Olympos Archipelagos are spotted in a remote spot of Olympos Village, boasting incredible views over the sea and the mountainside. Each unit can accommodate up to five people and has a full kitchen, a wide terrace, quality bathtubs, and soundproof windows.
CHECK AVAILABILITY & PRICES
Irenes House
$-$$Right in the heart of Olympos, Irene's House is a single two-floor apartment with wooden floors, a wood staircase, and a fully equipped kitchen. It boasts a small balcony offering views of the village, as well as traditional beds and dining amenities, while within a minute from Olympos' main square.
CHECK AVAILABILITY & PRICES
Things to See & Do in Olympos
Sightseeing
Activities & Entertainment
Olympos Map
Photos by Greeka Members
Photos by Greeka Team
More about Olympos
Olympos was established between the 7th and 9th centuries AD by residents of the ancient city of Vrykous who sought refuge from pirate raids. They built their houses on the side of the mountain, amidst green forests, which afforded them the best possible protection. The houses were mostly made of sandstone, so they could blend in with the surrounding environment. The village’s houses retain their vibrant colors and unique architecture to this day.
The settlement has a population of around 530 inhabitants most of whom are engaged in farming and agriculture. The village itself has been described as a live museum, preserving its traditional identity and characterized by an old-fashioned way of living. Its inhabitants abide by centuries-old customs, wear traditional outfits, and speak an archaic dialect with elements of ancient and Medieval Greek. Conventional woven fabrics and intricate embroideries are hand-crafted by its residents, in addition to the traditional boots known as stivania, which are part of the local attire. Here you will also find one of the last traditional windmills still in use.
The village is dominated by the Church of The Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Also known as the Olympos Cathedral, this 16th-century church is distinguished by its imposing belltower, while inside it is covered by vibrant, Byzantine-Era frescoes. Every year on August 15th, the village organizes a big festival dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin: women wear traditional costumes, men play traditional musical instruments and everyone participates in joyous activities of drinking and dancing.
Other religious landmarks include the small church of St. Filimon which boasts a striking, off-white exterior, and the picturesque Church Christos which offers scenic views of the sea. Visitors will be able to find a handful of accommodation options spread throughout the area, as well as some rustic taverns and charming cafes offering authentic Karpathian dishes. In proximity to the village lies Ancient Vrykous (or Vroukounta), one of the most important cities of Karpathos during antiquity. The city flourished in the 5th century BC and remains of walls and houses can be observed in the area and one can also visit the Vroukounta Tombs.
Last but not least, another unique place of interest is the Hatzivasilis Museum, a folklore museum exhibiting works of the late local Vasilis Hatzivasilis that allows immersing yourself in the island's history and culture.
