Alonissos Island Informations

Geographical & Historical Outline of Alonissos

Alonissos lies to the east of Skopelos, from which its southern end is separated by a narrow channel.

To the east of Alonissos are the small islands of Lechousa, Peristera and Adelfi.

The island has a long narrow shape, with an area of 64 square kilometers and 64 kilometers of coastline.

It has luxuriant vegetation, with pine trees almost touching the sea in some places and there are fine beaches with clear sea.

HISTORY

Alonissos has been inhabited since prehistoric times.

The Mycenaeans settled on the island in the 14th c. BC two cities, famous for their wine exports to the region, evolved during the Classical period.

There are some remains of ancient inhabitation at Kokkinokastro on the south-east coast of the island.

Alonissos was captured by the Athenians (4th c. BC) and later by the Romans, to be recaptured by the Athenians in 428. It was raided and plundered by Barbarossa (1538) and became subject to the Turks, from whom it was liberated along with the other islands.

In 1965 the island was struck by a strong earthquake, which created much damage to the capital, Alonissos (or Chora).

The inhabitants moved south-east to Patitiri, which is now the capital and harbor of the island.

HOW TO GET THERE

There are frequent ferry services from Volos to Patitiri of Alonissos.
Distance 60 nautical miles.

KTEL buses from Athens to Volos leave from the bus station at 260 Liosion str.

There are also regular ferry services from Volos, Agios Konstantinos in Fthiotida and Kimi in Evia to Patitiri.