Agistri

Why Visit
Azure waters, pine trees and lush vegetation (where many bird species find refuge) are the main characteristics of this tiny, yet charming, island of less than 1,000 inhabitants! There are three large settlements on the island: Megalohóri (or Mýlos), Skála and Limenária. Apart from the little church of Ayioi Theódoroi, other sights on the island include Metopis and an 1812 windmill at Megalochóri.

Skala and Megalohori (Mylos) are the two biggest villages. The island provides a multitude of activities to do: water sports at Skala and Aponisos, horse riding at Megalohori, cycling. Don’t miss the opportunity to follow beautiful walking routes through the island’s dense pine forest.

History
The history of Agistri dates back to the ancient years, when the island was known as Kekrifalia, (embellished head). In fact, archaeological excavations suggest that the first traces of human inhabitancy on Agistri are estimated 2,500 years ago. However, the island was not continuously occupied. Its early inhabitation gave it some important apparitions on literature, among which the Iliad of Homer. The poet mentions its contribution in the Trojan War as an ally of Aegina Island. In addition, Thucydides and Diodoros mention the island of Agistri, using its original name.

Agistri was part of the Aegina kingdom, along with other neighbouring islands, like Aponissos, Kontari, and Megaritissa, which also count on important archaeological findings. The group of islands that formed the kingdom of Aegina was governed by King Aeakos. That is why the histories of this kingdom and the island of Agistri are usually related.

In the Medieval times, Agistri followed the historical course of all Greece: at first it was part of the Byzantine Empire and then it was conquered by Ottomans. Like the rest of the Saronic islands, Agistri was part of the forst modern Greek Stata, as formed after the Independence War of 1821. The Royal Decree in the year 1835 established a municipality that gave evidence of 248 inhabitants in Agistri. In the early 1970s, another important service was available on the island: electricity. In addition, an asphalt road round the island was constructed. Today, the economy of Agistri is based on tourism and agriculture.

Museums - Archeological
Due to its small size and the interrupted history, Agistri has no museums or ancient sites to visit. However, very interesting museums are found in the neighboring island of Aegina, just a short ferry ride from Agistri. The long history of Aegina has provided the necessary background for establishing many museums.

Very interesting is the Archaeological Museum of Aegina, the first archaeological museum in modern Greece. Located next to the ancient site of Kolona, this museum hosts findings from excavations around the island. There is also a small archaeological museum next to the temple of Athena Aphaia, in the center of the island. Also worth to visit is the lovely Folklore Museum in Aegina Town.

Beaches
Chalikiada, Aponissos, Dragonera, Megalochori beach, Skala beach, Skliri, Xekofti, Bariama, Magiza, Mariza

Religious Monasteries and Churches
The small island of Agistri lies in the heart of the Saronic and is an ideal destination for peaceful vacation. Along its main town and the nearby villages there are many churches and chapels to see.

The most impressive site of Agistri is the Church of the Virgin Mary in Metochi. It is accessed through a beautiful path amidst trees and offers an splendid view to the sea. Close to the port and right behind the beach of Skala lies the historic church of Agioi Anargyroi with its characteristic blue dome. It is celebrated on the first of July.

The church of Zoodochos Pighi is the island's cathedral and is found in Megalochori. It is worth visiting for the remarkable frescoes and the panoramic view. There is a great festival on its name day, on the Good Friday in Easter.

Agia Kyriaki dominates the square of Limeraria village. The picturesque church is visited by many faithful every year and celebrates on July 7th. The most impressive site of Agistri is the Church of the Virgin Mary in Metochi. It is accessed through a beautiful path amidst trees and offers a splendid view to the sea.