Ioulida is the capital village of Kea Island in the archipelago of Kyklades. This settlement reflects the spirit of the traditional villages and has avoided excessive touristic infrastructure. Cars are not allowed within the area and people must leave them at the entrance of the town. You will witness donkeys around the streets of the village used for carrying materials. There is also a bus service departing from Ioulida to several parts of the island. Kastro area on the left of the entrance gate and is the oldest part of the village and displays antique fortifications, the remains of a Venetian wall, and acropolis. Noteworthy is the church of Agia Paraskevi, built inside a cave. The monastery of Panagia Kastriani is also found here, which is the most important monastery on Kea perched on the top of a big rock, providing amazing vistas to the sea. The Archaeological Museum is also located in Ioulida with artifacts from the Post Neolithic Age, as well as the Early, the Middle and the Post Copper Age. The main square is where the festivals take place. One of the main festivals is that of Panagia, on August 15th which comprises traditional food, music, and dancing.
Kea belongs to the Cyclades island complex also known as Tzia and is located south of Athens. Its architecture and landscape share little similarities with the other islands of Cyclades. Kea Greece is ideal for a weekend get-away and is preferred mostly by Athenians. It boasts nice seaside villages, a picturesque capital and crystal waters. The architecture has more earthy tones that match the mountainous landscape.
Over the last years, many luxurious villas have been constructed on the slopes of hills offering a fantastic view. Ioulida, the main village has a Medieval castle and the famous Stone Lion, Vourkari is where the heart of nightlife beats and the beautiful port of Korissia is also worth visiting. Apart from the beaches, Kea offers nice paths for trekking. The island is reached only by ferry from the port of Lavrion within 90 minutes.
Each island in the Aegean has its own identity of unique wild beauty and rich cultural heritage. Some of these pristine islands are for the most part unexplored, such as Chios, Lesvos, Samos and Thasos, while others display a very vibrant day and nightlife and is where the heart of tourism beats, such as cosmopolitan Mykonos, Santorini with the most mesmerizing sunset, Rhodes with the biggest square in Europe and the Achillion palace of princess Sissy, and Paros and Ios with their whitewashed alleys and welcoming turquoise beaches.
Being among the top 20 tourist destinations worldwide, Greece is synonymous with 3 things: history and ancient civilization, amazing landscapes and top touristic destinations. Greece is so wealthy in culture and beauty that it never seems to be completely explored. Holidays in Greece is the ultimate experience all year round. It offers a great pallet of experiences; the warm sun, the crystal clear beaches, the dramatic nature, the rich culture and the renowned hospitality along with the unique culinary experience of the Mediterranean diet.
Learn more