History

According to mythology, the island of Kea was characterized as “Hydroussa” due to its abundance in water springs and dense vegetation.

The island took its name after the hero “Keo”, son of Apollo and the nymph Rhodoessi in the turn of the 11th century B.C.

 

Ancient Settlements

 

The presence of the island of Kea spans through the centuries. This is one more reason why it attracts tourists and travelers. During your stay in Kea, you will be able to discover the hidden historic treasures of the island. Ancient Ioulida was one of the four settlements in total that thrived in ancient times. Karthaia, Korissia and Piiessa were also major settlements in the long history of the island.

 

Kea’s Archaeological Museum

 

In Kea’s Archaeological Museum, you will have the opportunity to behold unique finds from the excavations that have been performed on the historic sites on the island. The marble Protocycladic statues from the prehistoric settlement near Aghia Eirini of Vourkari certainly stand out, but also the headless statue of Niki and the world-renowned Kouros of Kea, finds from the excavation of Karthaia. The museum is a mandatory stop for every visitor on the island!

 

Karthaia

 

On the southeast side of Kea, we can find the ruins of the ancient settlement of Karthaia. During ancient times, it was one of four major settlements of the island, autonomous and with its own currency. Parts of the town’s fortifications are still in place today. Access to the site is possible only by boat or on foot using the ancient trail that starts at Katomeria.