Psara (Ψαρά) is a small island steeped in records, placed just a few miles west of Chios. This diminutive island state became the 1/3-largest naval strength in Greece earlier than the revolution, following only Hydra and Spetses, and became the birthplace of the enduring warriors and national benefactors of 1821. Today, each nook of the island can pay tribute to its illustrious past.
Renowned for its wild and untamed splendor, unspoiled seashores, and crystal-clear azure waters, Psara gives a haven for folks who cherish tranquil getaways and actual hospitality. It is the correct vacation spot for an afternoon trip from Chios, in addition to an ideal starting point for exploring a pristine barren region paradise with unique natural landscapes.
| Name | Psara Island (Greek: Ψαρά) |
| Country | Greece |
| Region | North Aegean |
| Coordinates | 38°33′N 25°34′E |
| Area | 44.511 km2 (17.186 sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC +2 |
| Population | 420 |
| Heliport | Heliport of Psara |
How to Get to Psara Island
To reach Psara Island, you can take a ferry from the port of Chios. The journey typically takes around three hours. The ferry schedules may vary depending on the season, so it's advisable to check the timetable in advance. During peak seasons, there might be additional ferry services available. If you're traveling from Athens, you can first fly or take a ferry to Chios and then continue to Psara from there.
4 Experiences Worth Experiencing in Psara Island
If you pick to take a ferry to Psara, don't omit the opportunity to go to Kokkinopoulo Fishermen's Lighthouse, wherein an imposing lighthouse stands proudly at the cape's summit. Built in 1909 with the French Ottoman Lighthouse Company, this shape rises to a height of 78 meters.
Explore the Psara archipelago, which incorporates Antipsara, Ai Nikolaki, Daskaleio, Kato Nisi, Nisiopoula, and Prasonisi, and revel in swimming on the beaches of Avalaki, Englesiki, Isari, Kanalo, and Limnonaria.
Take a stroll along the path from the capital of Psara to the ancient Kastro Peninsula—one of the maximum stunning routes on the island, providing stunning views of Psara.
Discover the island's 67 churches, each maintained through different fishing families. Visit the chapel of the Zoodochos Pigi Monastery to admire its particular iconostasis, proposing the paintings of Chian icon painter G. Lourou, and decorated with embroidery patterns crafted by Psarian housewives.
Psara’s Beaches
The small island of Psara boasts over 40 beaches, imparting site visitors an array of alternatives. The most cosmopolitan seashores are located on its western side, whilst the east coast is covered with pebbled and wild seashores, best for the ones looking for solitude and adventure. All those beaches function as crystal-clear blue waters and outstanding underwater surroundings. Notable seashores to discover consist of:
- Κατσούνι: Situated close to the Psara agreement, this sandy seaside with shallow waters is right for families with kids. It has a cosmopolitan vibe and attracts large crowds every summer for its renowned seaside volleyball event.
- Κάτω Γιαλό: A superb pebbled seashore with azure waters, nestled inside the shadow of Mount Mavri Rachi. It is perfect for those searching for seclusion and gives lovely perspectives of Antipsara.
- Παραλία Λαζαρέτα: For many, that is the nice beach on Psara. Located about kilometers from Chora, it capabilities nice sand, crystal-clear blue waters, and delightful seashells.
- Λάκκα: The biggest seaside on Psara, Lakka is adorned with beautiful white pebbles and cool blue waters. It is located in St. Nicholas Bay, overlooking the rocky islets of Nisiopoula.
- Λήμνο: Located at the southern side of Psara, Lemnos is a sandy beach with pristine waters.
- Φτελιό: A pebble seashore with clear deep waters and an outstanding seabed, perfect for individuals who revel in snorkeling and underwater exploration.
- Φανάρι: The southernmost seaside of Psara, Fanari is thought for its stunning landscape. The small chapel of St. George, the azure waters, and the majestic black rocks create a magical setting.
Postcards from Psara: 8 Must-See Attractions
- Psara Island’s Capital: The capital of Psara is spread across the harbor, famous for its picturesque scenery, with narrow streets and terrific stone mansions adorned with red-tiled roofs.
- Εκκλησία του Αγίου Νικολάου (Cathedral Church of Saint Nikolaos of Psara): Built between 1785 and 1793, this church is the maximum important on the island, perched at the very best factor in Chora, overlooking the endless blue. It is made from marble carried by Psarian sailors from Chios and other Aegean islands, in addition to from remote places like Malta and Marseille.
- Μονή Κοίμησης της Θεοτόκου (Moni Kimiseos Theotokou): This historic monastery, built in 1780, houses helpful treasures, which include manuscripts and clerical texts printed in Moscow and Venice. The monastery also once held an icon of the Virgin Mary (a work by the great Renaissance painter Domenikos Theotokopoulos), later transferred to the island of Syros. The site gives panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, with vistas of Lesbos, Skyros, and Mount Athos.
- Oικία Κωνσταντίνου Κανάρη: Psara is the birthplace of the first-rate warrior of 1821, Greek admiral, and later Prime Minister Konstantinos Kanaris. Today, a bust commemorates this countrywide hero at the website wherein his own family home once stood.
- Μαύρη Ράχη (Mavri Rachi): The historic Paleokastro Hill is a symbol of the Psarians’ valiant resistance at some point in the Greek Revolution. At the summit stands a modest monument to the Psarian Massacre, commemorating the self-sacrifice of one hundred twenty Psarians (guys, women, and kids) who blew up the powder mag and shielding citadel at the hilltop while surrounded with the aid of the Ottomans. A stone path results in this site, offering one of the maximum beautiful sunsets on the island.
- Αρχοντίκι (Archontiki): The most giant archaeological site on the island consists of the remnants of a Mycenaean settlement and a historical cemetery.
- Αντίψαρα (Antipsara): This uninhabited islet opposite Psara’s harbor is known for its extraordinary herbal splendor (a Natura 2000 website) and serves as a sanctuary for rare seabirds. Psili Ammos seaside is taken into consideration one of the most stunning in the Mediterranean.
- Σπιτάλια (The Hospital): The implementing stone building of the vintage medical institution changed into used for the brief quarantine of Persian sailors returning from voyages. The construction's vaulted roof and austere flats remain dazzling. This historic structure became the asset of EOT in 1976 and changed into restored using the exceptional Greek architect Aris Konstantinidis to function as a restaurant.
Psara's Excursions
A pleasant revel awaits you in case you pick to visit one of all of Psara's tours. You'll get pleasure from delicious lobster pasta because the island is certainly one of Greece's biggest lobster fishing hubs. You can also indulge in succulent roasted goat, squid ink risotto, and koufota (a kind of pasta). Before you depart, make certain to taste the splendid nearby honey.
