Kalymnos Island

In Kalymnos the sponge divers still dive into the deep waters of the Aegean sea to bring the "fruit" hidden beneath the waters, to the surface in their own traditional way. Traditions still play a strong role in this beautiful island in the Dodecanese complex. 

Tourism has now become another form of income for the Kalymnians as tourists flock to their island every summer to enjoy the serenity and the beauty Kalymnos has to offer.

Reaching the picturesque capital, Pothia, by boat, the visitor is welcomed by the statue of the mermaid, high up on the rocky mountains and by the charming houses with multi coloured windows, making a very pleasant first impression.

Take a little time to wander around the hospitable town.  At the promenade, you can visit the church of Christ or the Saviour.  The notable iconostasis is a work of the well known sculptor from Tinos, Giannouli Chalepa with icons and wall paintings made by local artists.


Beautiful buildings and lots of greenery give the harbour its image.  At the beach front and at tourist shops, the presence of sponges give Kalymnos its identity.  Don't forget to visit the the workshops where the sponges are processed.  If you have some time to spare, the Archeological - Folkloric museum is of particular interest.

Near the town of Pothia, we also find the castle of Chrisocherias, built by the Knights of the Order of Saint John on top of ancient and Byzantine ruins with the church of Chrisocherias inside it.  The village is the old capital of the island and the knights left their mark here as well, reinforcing the old Byzantine castle.