2017

For anyone who wants to visit antiquities during vacation, you cannot miss the ancient city of Karthea. Ancient Karthea was one of the most important city-states of Kea during ancient times. Karthea was founded during the archaic times and lasted until the early Byzantine period.

The city was surrounded by walls and had 6 entrances and towers in order to be able to protect the area. It had an extensive defense mechanism which included many towers. They had also built public buildings, laboratories, mines and water supply system. The city operated as an autonomous area with its own rules and laws.

If you are interested in walking all the way to the city, it is a path worth visiting. The city is only reachable by boat or by riding a donkey. Otherwise, take with you food and water and begin to descent to the city. The hiking will last approximately one hour and you will have the chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery and nature all around.

The monuments of Karthea include a Doric temple of Athena goddess, and the archaic temple of Pythion Apollo. There is also the temple of Demetra, the goddess of harvesting, and a theater dated back to the 1st century. There is also the archeological museum of Kea where you can find exhibits from the temple of Athena and other parts of the city.

Before you take the way for your return, take a few hours to relax and swim to the city’s excusive and quiet sea above. The crystal clear waters and the solitaire sound of the waves will compensate your trouble. Make sure you have rested enough, since your way back will be longer and harder. The route for your hiking will now be a constant uphill route.