10 Unknown Facts About Cyclades Island

Cyclades are a group of 220 Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, located southeast to mainland Greece. It comprises of large islands like Mykonos, Santorini, Milos, Naxos, Syros, Anafi, and many more. There are many other smaller islands and islets included too.

Many of these islands are still completely uninhabited, which give tourists a chance to check out some remote locations.

The name ‘Cyclades’ refers to forming a circle around The Sacred Island of Apollo – Delos. The uninhabited island of Delos was an important religious center and a political force in the yester years.

Facts about Cyclades Islands

Cyclades has been mentioned a lot of times in the Greek Mythology. The legend goes that Zeus grew up in a Naxos cave and his son Dionysus later became the protector of the island.

It is said that the Aegean Sea boasts of more history and legend, than any other water body in the world. Thousands of Greek ships sailed upon the Aegean Sea, while rescuing Helen and attacking Troy.

The islands are actually peaks of a submerged mountainous region. The only two exceptions are Milos and Santorini, which are volcanic islands.

One of the most famous islands, Santorini, is still a dormant but active volcano. It is estimated that 12 large eruptions have happened in the last 200, 000 years.

We’ve all seen the Greek blue and white house, ever wondered why? There’s an ancient belief that says this particular blue called as ‘kyanos’, keeps evil away!

Naxos is the largest island with an area of 448 square km and a population of more than 18,000. But, Syros is the most populated one with more than 21,000 inhabitants.

Ever wonder why the Cyclades Islands are such a famous destination? It is estimated that these islands are sunkissed almost 300 days of a year.

Cyclades is a foodie’s paradise with world class production of feta, olive oil, and wine! The authentic Mediterranean food here is made of the freshest ingredients.

Cyclades has exceptionally rich marine fauna of more than 200 species of fish. It is home to the critically endangered and rarest seal in the world – Mediterranean Monk Seals.