Lipsi is the largest island belonging to a cluster of many others islets. (See also Astipálaia; Cos; Kálimnos; Kárpathos; Kastellórizo; Léros; Pátmos; Rhodes.). The Dodecanese islands are located on the southeastern side of Greece, between the Cyclades and the coasts of Turkey. Fringed by sandy beaches, the rugged island of Rhodes (the capital) is literally covered with remnants of the Byzantine, Ottoman and Roman empires. Astipalea is the westernmost island of the Dodecanese, located at the point where the Dodecanese meet the Cyclades. Today there is only one small village on the island. The islands have benefited, however, from the remarkable development of tourism in the principal islands of the group, particularly Rhodes. It is commonly referred to as the Turquoise Coast with blue skies, … Twelve large islands and numerous smaller ones with crystal clear waters, sandy or pebbly beaches, important archaeological finds, imposing Byzantine and medieval monuments and unique traditional settlements are waiting to be discovered. Turkish rule of the islands lasted until May 1912, when during the Italo-Turkish War Italian forces seized the islands—except Ikaría (which was occupied by Greek forces in November) and Kastellórizo (which remained Turkish). Don’t miss the 4th century Asclipiion, the Antimáhia 15th century castle with its imposing battle tower, as well as one of the most scenic villages of Kos with a distinctive traditional character, Ziá nestled amongst a dense cedar forest. Enjoy sandy beaches with crystal clear waters, swim in paradise bays (like the small bay of Vathí), rent a boat and sail around the island’s beaches, follow several hiking routes, participate in local fairs (the most famous ones take place on 15th August) or go scuba diving and climbing. The Dodecanese have long been one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Mediterranean. Secret treaties on the future of the islands, drawn up by the Allies during and after World War I, led to a dispute between Italy and Greece over which nation should have jurisdiction over the islands. Take a romantic stroll around the famous Street of the Knights and feel like a holy warrior in shining armour, or a noble princess. Rhodes and Kos may be the most popular of the Dodecanese but lesser-known islands – including Nisyros, Kalymnos and Symi – offer an equally scenic holiday, minus the … The “island of the Apocalypse” or “Jerusalem of the Aegean” welcomes you! The Dodecanese chain of islands are the most southeastern in Greece. Ferries leave Pireaus in the late afternoon and arrive in Rhodes some fifteen hours later after stopping in Patmos, Kalymnos, Leros and Kos. Actually the Dodecanese count much more than 12 islands. On the Aegean's eastern, edge the Dodecanese present perfect Greek vistas of whitewashed walls, turquoise blue skies and seas. Their land area is 1,031 square miles (2,670 square km). Being a remote outpost of Greece, they have their own cultures that are often very different to that of mainland Greece. By signing up for this email, you are agreeing to news, offers, and information from Encyclopaedia Britannica. The town of Halki or Niborió, the island’s capital, is listed as a traditional settlement and it is amphitheatrically built overlooking the clear-blue sea, whereas impressive neoclassical mansions reveal the prosperity the island enjoyed in the past. Lonely Planet's guide to Dodecanese Islands. It is rather impressive that today Nísyros is still an active volcanic centre together with the volcanic centers of Milos, Santorini and Methana! Interested in history? Twelve large islands and numerous smaller ones with crystal clear waters, sandy or pebbly beaches, important archaeological finds, imposing Byzantine and medieval monuments and unique traditional settlements are waiting to be discovered. Visit among others the castle of Chrissoheria and the Archaeological Museum. Travelers who are interested in Greek mythology and ancient ruins will have a field day here. The name Dodecanese means "the twelve islands" in Greek, as this is the number of the largest islands of the complex. Get into a boat and sail around Maráthi, another small island with a beautiful beach covered with lentisks and tamarisk (salt cedar). Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... What are the islands of the Maldives made of? Dodecanese is a group of islands in southeastern Greece in the Aegean Sea, It is located between the southwester coast of Asia Minor and the island of Crete, south of Samos, and Fourni, and east of the Cyclades. Symi. Did you actually know that you can sit under the plane tree where Hippocrates himself, the Father of Medicine, used to teach his students and examine his patients? The islands constituted a nomós (department) until 2011, when local government in Greece was reorganized and the islands were divided among four new perifereiakés enótites (regional units) in the South Aegean (Modern Greek: Nótio Aigaío) periféreia. The Dodecanese Islands are an island group in the South Aegean Islands of Greece.. The Dodecanese islands were formally annexed by Fascist Italy, as the Possedimenti Italiani dell'Egeo in 1923, following an agreement between Mussolini and Kemal Atatürk. Together with the nearby islands it belongs to the Natura Network as well. It forms part of the Natura Network. Island-hopping in Greece: five must-sees in the Dodecanese 4 min read • Published Apr 26, 2015 Island-hop your way around the Dodecanese Islands in the southeastern Aegean Sea, from the raw natural wonder of Karpathos to the holy sites of Patmos. Lonely Planet photos and videos. The Dodecanese or Dodekanisa which translates as twelve islands is a group of 12 larger islands and 150 smaller ones set in the heart of south-eastern Aegean. Nisyros. Dodecanese - Greek Islands (Greece) The Dodecanese (means the 12 islands = Dodekanisa ), is a group of islands in the southeast of the Aegean sea. In neither the Hellenistic nor the Roman Empire periods did the islands function as a single political or geographic unit. kilometers. Strolling along the narrow streets of beautiful Mandráki, the island’s capital and port, is a richly rewarding experience. A cluster of twelve islands at the southeastern edge of the Aegean, the Dodecanese form a bridge between Europe and the East. Don’t forget to visit Armáthia, the largest of the islands around Kássos, where you can find some excellent beaches, like Marmara and Karavostassi! Dodecanese and Turkey Marvelous sea, archeology, volcanoes and mysticism Δωδεκάνησος or "the 12 islands" that in reality are about 200 islands and islets! Their land area is 1,031 square miles … ; Kos is the third largest of the Dodecanese and the second most popular and touristy island after Rhodes. Whether you are looking for an action packed holiday or a relaxing visit, you will be quite astonished by the choices on offer on such a small island! Kalymnos. Discover sights, restaurants, entertainment and hotels. An island blessed with an abundance of streams, pine-tree forests, vineyards, olive groves, rocky caves (which are actually home to monachus monachus) and mountainous landscapes, Kárpathos is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and lovers of deep-rooted tradition. Despite its small size, Kássos was once a mighty maritime and commercial power. Dodecanese, Modern Greek Dodekánisa, group of islands in the Aegean Sea, off the southwestern coast of Turkey in southeastern Greece. Well-preserved castles, like the ones of Kritinia and Monólithos are also waiting to be discovered! In total there are 163 islands and islets, of which only 26 are inhabited. Subsequent Italian governments, however, unilaterally denounced the accord with Greece and refused to carry it out, and Italy used a special article in the Treaty of Sèvres (1920), whereby Turkey had ceded to Italy all rights and titles to the Dodecanese and Kastellórizo, to enforce its claim on the Dodecanese. Enjoy the variety a Greek gulet cruise has to offer. Kassos. The two largest islands, Rhodes and Kos, have a cosmopolitan flair and are literally burs… The Islands lie in the south east of the Aegean, offshore from mainland Turkey. The name Dodecanese means “12 islands.” The term has been applied at various times to groups differently composed and numbering more than 12. Don’t miss the imposing fortified monastery of Saint Ioannis and the Theologian Apocalypse cave! Dodecanese - Greek Islands (Greece) The Dodecanese (means the 12 islands = Dodekanisa ), is a group of islands in the southeast of the Aegean sea. The total area of the Dodecanese is 2663 sq. The well-preserved mansions that still stand in Fre, the island’s capital and main port, reflect today this former grandeur. But the larger and richer islands of Rhodes and Cos had submitted involuntarily to Turkish rule and were given no special privileges. Less popular than the Cyclades and with a different style, these Greek islands stand out for their Medieval architecture and the peaceful beaches. Island-hopping is ideal in the Dodecanese during the summer, as the meltemia winds allow for smooth sailing across the lot. The stunning beauty of Hóra, a carefully preserved medieval settlement with narrow, maze-like alleys and stone-built houses will take your breath away. Wander along the impressive avenue with the Palm Trees, or stroll around famous squares like Platánou Square and Elefthería Square and admire legendary buildings, remains of the Italian rule. Kalymnos is a beautiful island, located between Kos and Leros, close to the coast of western Turkey. Enjoy peaceful holidays in the “Island of Peace and Friendship”, where young people from all over the world gather here every year for their annual meeting! Italian became the official language, and in 1925 the Dodecanesians were obliged to take Italian citizenship. Visitgreece.gr is the official tourism web site for Greece, run by the Greek National Tourism Organisation, where you'll find information on the main tourist destinations, such as cities, beaches, as well as activities, events and much more! If you are looking to spend peaceful holidays in a pure, dreamy environment with pine trees, olive groves and low plains with freshwater streams, then Léros is your destination! You will find life laid back and the locals very welcoming to visitors. Its main settlement is filled with cheerfully painted houses of exceptional architecture, awe-inspiring churches and picturesque alleys. Alternatively, you can come to Sími in summer to attend the famous Simi Festival, which includes among others classical music concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions. Set out on a day trip to the traditional settlement of Horió, the former capital of the island, and admire interesting Byzantine monuments (like the Great Castle). I may go back next year for a few nights, as we will return to the Dodecanese for sure. Dodecanese islands, Greece accommodation. For information please contact: info@visitgreece.gr. Even if you are a wind surfing fan, “anemoessa” Kárpathos (“she of the many winds”, according to Homer) is the perfect place to exercise your favourite sport. Dodecanese. ; Kassos; Karpathos is located between Rhodes and Crete. They are situated between the islands of Crete, the Cyclades, lkarias, Samos and the Asia Minor seaboard. Accommodation rentals including studios, houses, rooms, hotels, houses, apartments, villas and travel information on the Dodecanese islands A few of the islands are close enough to Turkey for day-trips though the islands are so beautiful you may not feel like leaving. GNTO © 2020. Welcome the opportunity to visit the “island of the sea sponge harvesters”, an internationally known alternative tourism destination. Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article. The Dodecanese are made up of 12 main islands plus another 150 islands; only 26 islands are inhabited. Everywhere you go, you’ll see traces of peoples and cultures that have made their mark over the centuries: Ionians, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Ottomans and Italians. Bags feeling light? The islands’ substantial economic deficit has been cut gradually by increasing tourism. Don’t forget to come back in Carnival time when ancient old customs revive. Swim in sun-drenched beaches (like Plaka, Potha, and Paradise), go scuba diving and explore the ancient city sunk between Kálymnos and Télendos or go hiking, climbing, wind surfing, canoe-kayaking and spear fishing! Welcome to Rhodes, a medieval treasure beautifully preserved throughout the centuries. Azriel Rahav explains about the weather patterns in the Dodecanese islands … The generation of islanders that remained under that regime was largely bilingual as a result. Unique beaches with crystal water are waited to be explored by you! Omissions? In the Byzantine Empire the theme (province) of the Dodecanese included the Cyclades islands as well. During your quest, you will encounter some of the city’s most remarkable buildings: the National Theatre, the Courts, the City Hall and the Governors Palace. This is the reason why in Astipálea the characteristics of both island complexes blend together to create the island’s uniquely varied scenery. The Dodecanese- The “twelve islands” located SE of the Aegean Sea near the Turkish coast. At the hilltop stands imposingly Hora’s castle, surrounded by small houses with whitewashed walls, blue doors and wooden balconies overlooking the open blue sea below. Leros. Browse photos and videos of Dodecanese Islands. Perhaps you were looking for other islands in the Aegean, such as the Aegean Islands, the Cyclades Islands, the Ionian Islands or … The islands were a part of the ancient Greek world, and Rhodes and Cos have long histories. The twelve islands in the Dodecanese chain, including the islands of Kos, Rhodes, Symi, Kalymnos and Kaparthos, each have a different distinctive and are well worth a visit. Visit Hóra, the island’s capital and port, one of the most picturesque settlements of the Aegean. Kalymnos, the island of the sea- sponge harvesters, Sponge harvesters from Kalymnos: The diving legends. Telendos. Although its name means ''12 (dodeca) islands'', the group consists of about 50 islands … The literal translation of Dodecanese is "Twelve Islands" although there are 16 inhabited ones and up to 27 in total. Visit stunning wonders of nature, such as the Seven Springs, the Valley of the Butterflies and Rodíni Park, a green valley with running waters, small bridges and many peacocks, the trademark of the park! Halki. The view from the medieval castle (built in the location of ancient Tilos) that stands imposingly at the top of the hill will certainly take your breath away. All content included on this site consists intellectual property of GNTO and you are not allowed to reproduce the whole or part of this work in any way. The culinary enthusiasts should taste mouth watering delights, such as sweet smelling thyme honey, juicy tangerines, homemade mizithra cheese, delicious sea-dried lobster tail, and sea ray preserved in sea water! T here is a blueness of sea that seems feasible only via Photoshop or an Instagram filter, but which is made real around the south-east Aegean’s Dodecanese islands. Karpathos. The first picture to see upon arriving on the island is Póthia, both the capital and the port of Kálymnos, spreading amphitheatrically on two hills. The Dodecanese Islands: The History. Capt. The Dodecanese, located in the southeastern Aegean Sea, is a fascinating complex of islands, ranging from tiny uninhabited islets to historic and picturesque lands, each with a unique character and charm. Pserimos means “looking for the ideal destination for serene, relaxing holidays”. The Dodecanese is made up of 32 islands and are the perfect place for a classically Greek sailing experience. Updates? Visit also Kárpathos during Easter or Carnival time and participate with the locals in celebrations that will remain in your memory forever! The Dodecanese, literally “twelve islands”) are a group of 15 larger plus 150 smaller Greek islands. Many visitors, for instance, come here to venerate the miraculous icon of Archangel Michael kept at the monastery of Panormítis, one of the most significant monasteries of the Dodecanese. Italian sovereignty over the islands was confirmed by the Treaty of Lausanne (1923). This is Tílos! Ragged mountainscape, densely forested ranges and hilly vistas, verdant valleys –home to four hundred species of flowers and herbs–, and habitat of rare species of birds. Just take your pick! The main islands of the Dodecanese group, with their Italian names in parentheses, are: Kárpathos (Scarpanto), Pátmos (Patmo), Kásos (Caso), Astipálaia (Stampalia), Lipsoí (Lisso), Léros (Lero), Kálimnos (Calino), Nísuros (Nisiro), Tílos (Piscopi), Chálki (Calchi), Sými (Simi), Rhodes (Rodi), and Cos (Coo; Modern Greek: Kos) and the outlying Kastellórizo (Castelrosso). 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