LEROS ISLAND

 LEROS. 


Among the cluster of the Dodecanese Islands in the Aegean Sea, east of the Cyclades and off the southwest coast of Turkey (Asia Minor, where Greeks lived since the prehistoric period, until 1922), is Leros Island. Leros is renowned for its deep, sheltered natural bays – such as the picturesque Lakki Harbour. (Its excellent harbours were the main reason that the island was highly prized strategically throughout history.) Leros is mountainous and consists of three peninsulas joined by two isthmuses, with a total area of 20 square miles, and has a population of 10,000. The Capital of Leros is Agia Marina, the old mediaeval port.

 One can take advantage of wonderful safe beaches on the east and west coasts, which are perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
It is believed that Leros and Kalymnos just to the southeast comprise the Kalydnian isles referred to by Homer, famous in ancient times for its honey and for a temple of Artemis. The island was associated in antiquity with the cult of Artemis (worship of the mother-goddess). Leros was first inhabited by Carians, succeeded by Cretans, Ionians, Byzantines and Rhodians; in 1319 it was taken over by Rhodes.

Leros has many very picturesque and attractive villages lying on its beautiful coasts. Most of those villages have fine examples of the traditional architecture of the island. Their beauty is increased by the fact that they have kept their authentic and traditional colours. Accommodations and taverns are available in all the villages of the sland and various other touristy facilities can be found in the touristy resorts and in the lovely capital.