History
Since 3200 BC, Paros has been inhabited by excavations on the island of Saliagos, between Paros and Antiparos. According to mythology, the Cretan Alkaios was the first king of Paros to build a town on the site of Parikia's current capital. Due to its strategic position in the center of Cyclades and fertile land, Paros was an ideal place. The Cretans transformed the island into a naval station and named it Minoa, an honorable title given to the cities of Royal Cretany. In 1100 BC, the Ionians came to take the island and, after a first defeat, they managed to win the Minoans, destroyed their civilization and became rulers.
Top Destinations
Naoussa
The picturesque fishing village of Naoussa is situated in an enormous bay in the northern part of Paros, 10 kilometers east of the capital, Parikia. Naoussa is considered one of the most beautiful villages in the Cyclades, and despite the development of tourism, this beautiful village has maintained its authenticity, tradition and charm.
Parikia
Parikia, also known as the city of Paros or Hora, is the capital of Paros Greece and has a population of about 3000. Parikia was built on the same site as the old town and capital. This small town is the commercial and cultural center of Paros and the main harbor of the island.
Marpissa
Marpissa is situated on the hill of Kefalos, just above Piso Livadi, 18 km southeast of Parikia. Like most Cycladic villages, it is built amphitheatrically around the hill. Marpissa is a traditional Cycladic village with cubic whitewashed houses standing between narrow streets, churches and windmills.
Lefkes
Located in the central part of Paros, 11 km southeast of Parikia, Lefkes is one of the most beautiful villages in Paros. Lefkes has 500 inhabitants and is built at an altitude of 300 meters above sea level on a green hill covered with olive trees and pine trees.
Aliki
Aliki is a beautiful coastal village located 13 km south of Parikia with a picturesque port. This is one of the places where an enormous number of tourists have arrived in recent years. Most tourists are looking for the peace and warmth offered by Aliki. Even in high season, when the number of tourists increases greatly, the village retains its traditional character.
Top Beaches
Kolimbithres
The beach of Kolimbithres is one of the most famous beaches of Paros and is located in the huge bay of Naoussa, or Plastira Bay. This beach is particularly impressive because of the huge blocks of granite boarding it, sculpted into strange smooth shapes by the sea and the wind over the centuries.
Golden Beach
Golden Beach is one of the best beaches in Paros, situated south of Parikia. Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti) is a long 700 meter long golden sandy beach famous for its ideal wind conditions.
Santa Maria
Santa Maria is situated near Naoussa in Plastira Bay and is a long coastline divided into two soft, golden sandy beaches offering beautiful views of Naxos Island and the crystal smart waters.
Parasporos
Parasporos is located south of Parikia, the capital of Paros, next to a campsite, which is the reason why it is often very crowded. It is a large beach with emerald waters and golden sand. A couple of beach bars are available on the beach and organise a few parties during summer time, with dancing and drinking all night long.
Pounda
Pounda Beach is one of the most famous and crowded beaches in Paros, reminiscent of Mykonos Paradise Beach. It is a fully organized beach 2 kilometers from Logaras (south east of Parikia) that offers a large tourist complex with many interesting facilities such as swimming pools, restaurants, bars, shops, sea sports equipment and bungee jumping facilities.
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