Ios is a beautiful island in the Cyclades and the name Ios means “flower”. Ios was the homeland of Homer, the poets, mother Klymeni and it was his final resting place. The island is very hilly and have cliffs down to the sea nearly all around it. The island is situated halfway between Naxos and Santorini.

Ios is about 18km (11 miles) long and 10km (6 miles) wide, with an area of 109.024 sq kilometres (42.094 sq mi). Ios is also part of the Thira regional unit.

The Capital of Ios is Chora and the nearby Port of Ios is at the head of Ormos harbour in the northwest.

History

The history of Ios dates back to the early Cycladic period. These can be proved in the well-preserved walls of the buildings, testimonies, utensils, tools and pottery that was found. During the Classical period the Ios joined forces with the Athenian Delian League to avoid occupation by the Persians. Evidence show that the inhabitants of the island spoke the Ionian dialect but worshipped the ancestral Athenian god Pithius Apollo, as well as the protector of the Ionians, Fytalmius Poseidon.

Ios came under Macedonian rule from 338 BC until 315 BC when the regained their independence. In the 2^nd century BC, they came under Roman authority, where the Romans used the island as a place of exile. Many churches were built during the Byzantine period on the island, and it is believed to have 365 churches, like the days of the year.

In the following years Ios suffered from many pirate attacks and raids. Once they saw a foreign ship, they would barricade themselves in the castle. They would send the oldest woman to the port of the island. If she comes back, they will know it is safe, if not they would prepare for battle.

In 1204 the Crusaders occupied Ios until the 15^th century, and it was ruled by a noble family of Crispi. They wanted to protect the island, so they decided to rebuild the castle. However, the Turkish, under pirate Hairedin Barbarossa, took over Ios in 1537 and during this time there where many unrests and constant attacks from pirates.

Ios took part in the Greek War of Independence against the Turks with a war-fleet of 24 ships, and one of the ships was built on Ios. Finally the island gained autonomy in 1829 and became part of the Modern Greek State.

Interesting Facts:

Coordinates: 36°43’0” N 25°20′11” E

Ios Island Area: 109.024 sq. kms

Coast Length:

Population (2011): 2024 (19 per sq km)

Telephone code: +22860

Postal Code: 840 01

Time Zone: GMT +2:00, Summer +3:00

Capital: Chora

Highest Mountain: Kastro Peak, 713m (2339 ft)