KYTHNOS TRAVEL GUIDE

KYTHNOS > HISTORY

HISTORY

The first residents of the island were most probably Greek-Pelasgians, while in the Median years they were Driopes. Of historical importance are the Cyclopean Walls as well as the temples that remained after they left. After the Driopes the island was inhabited by Ionians. Later on, Aristotle refers to the Kythnian City and considers it as ideal. During the Roman Times the island was part of Achaias County and later on Byzantines included it in “Aegean Theme”.

In 1207 A.D. the French Empire also came into power on the island by the Venetian Marcus Sanoudus. In 1292 A.D, Thermia (this is how the island was named during the Medieval Times, due to the warm water fountains) was conquered by the admiral of Aragonia, while in 1537 it was conquered by the Russians. However, in 1827 the island gained back its ancient name-Kythnos- and participated in the battle for liberation against the Turks.

In 1862, rebels who came from the island of Syros on the boat “Karteria” battled against the army forces who had remained loyal to Othon and had arrived with the boat "Amalia".

During the battles, those who were on the side of the royalsconquered their opponents, and as result the rebels Leotsakos, Moraitinis & Skarvlelis were executed.

These facts gained their own place in the contemporary history and were named "Kythniaka". Nowadays, in the cove of Aghia Eirini, next to Loutra, there is a marble plaque with all these names to the memory of these first rebels who fought for our country’s democracy.