Area:Area: 9 sq. km., Population: 222, Capital: Kastellorizo, 

How to get there: By ship once a week from Piraeus and twice weekly from Rhodes and the other Dodecanese (in summer).

HISTORY: Kastellorizo lies a mere 1.5 nautical miles from the coast of Asia Minor, from whence arrived its first inhabitants in prehistoric times. It was later settled by the Dorians and its subsequent history is linked with that of Rhodes. Over the centuries it was occupied by the Romans, Knights of St. John, Egyptians, Turks and ltalians, suffering countless pirate raids in addition until its ultimate union with Greece in 1947.

SIGHTSEEING: Excavations have revealed Cyclopean walls and tools of the prehistoric and Mycenaean eras, while up on the plateau of Agios Georgios a gold Mycenaean wreath (now in the Athens Archaeological Museum) was found. There were also fortified acropolises at the sites of the present-day capital and Palaiokastro. The capital with its white houses and brightly coloured doors and windows presents a captivating, picturesque picture. Other sights include the 14th century castle of the Knights and a number of interesting churches: Agios Konstantinos (1833), Agios Nikolaos (11th c.1, Our Lady of the Fields (17th c.), and Agios Georgios with its catacombs. Kastellorizo also possesses the largest and most beautiful sea-cave in Greece, Parasta’s Cave or Phokeale (Refuge of the Seals). It is best visited in the early evening when the cave’s waters turn astonishing shades of blue. Caiques are available for excursions to beaches round the island and the nearby islets of Ro and Strongyli. In addition to its delightful surroundings, Kastellorizo can promise its guests a pleasant and tranquil stay.