Tinos

Are you interested in culture, history, arts and religion? Then you should consider a visit to the island of Tinos.

Tinos is located southeast in the Aegean Sea. The island belongs to the group of the Cyclades, together with, among others, Mykonos, Paros and Santorini. About 9000 people are permanent residents at Tinos, and they have an area of 194 amazing square kilometers to romp on. Cause Tinos is really an extraordinary place – the island is well known among Greeks because of its many sights, which I will tell you more about in a second!

What Tinos is most known for, and what also might explain its popularity in the land of Gods, is the church of Megalohari. This building is devoted towards Virgin Mary, which in Greek Orthodox Christianity serves a significant role. In Megalohari, one can find a special, miraculous icon of Virgin Mary, or the Holy Theotokos, as she often is referred to in Greek. The icon, and sometimes also the church, is called Panagia Evangelistria. The church of Megalohari, or Panagia Evangelistria, also has another name – Our Lady of Tinos, and every year since 1830, pilgrims from Greece and other places in the world, have visited the shrine. No wonder Tinos is known as the island of Madonna!

To describe the scenery of Tinos, many might mention the astonishing hilltops and caves, together with the numerous beaches. Along with stunning nature, Tinos is rich on architecture. In the villages, one can find examples of typical Cycladic building style – white and blue stone houses, with narrow alleys and beautiful churches. The island is also known for its decorative dovecotes and traditional windmills.

Another interesting fact about Tinos is that it is the birthplace and home of many artists. Recognized people, such as the painter Nikolaos Gyzis and the sculptor Yannoulis Chalepas both have roots in Tinos. There is also a school of fine arts on the island, as well as several museums where visitors can emerge in arts and culture.