Kardamyla

Location

Kardamyla is a borough built on the site of ancient Kardamilis, 28 kilometers from the town of Chios. The town is divided into two settlements, which together are the home of approximately 2000 persons. It is the birthplace of freedom fighters such as Chartoulakis (in the Middle Ages) and Kontanignotis (in the 1821 War of Independence). Two other important citizens of this town were the Venerable Nikiphoros, historian of the Nea Moni, and Georgios Zolotas, historian of Chios.

The houses have an intensely traditional architecture; narrow streets, curbstone alleys and covered passages are the typical local features; just as typical as are the houses mainly built in stone and decorated with flowers and plants. The upper section, spread at the feet of a steep hill, is the older village, whereas the lower village, called Marmaro, is built on the coast, in the inner part of a beautiful bay at a distance of 2 km from the old settlement. It has many exquisite mansions, built by the many seafarers and ship owners tracing their origins to this place; the people of Kardamyla have always loved the sea on which they worked.

The statue of the Sailor from Kardamyla, work of the sculptor Apartis, is a distinguishing mark of Marmaro and it is set in the harbor square. Besides, the pleasant experience of walking in the narrow streets of Marmaro will make you feel the typical island atmosphere of Chios.

This area is really famous for its many delightful beaches; Nagos and Yiosonas are considered the best of all. The area of Nagos is five kilometers from Kardamyla. Some of the features that form the enchanting landscape of the area are the running water springs, the high maple-trees, the dense vegetation and a a wonderful beach with colorful small pebbles. Apart from this kind of beauty, Nagos is highly suitable for summer holidays, since there are plenty of rooms to let and restaurants. One of the most picturesque villages that the visitor can also visit is situated at the foot of Pelinaio, the highest mountain of Chios.