Written by Missy Johnston
Paros, Greece
The Cycladic and Saronic Islands in Greece are known for their postcard-worthy beauty and interesting history. Paros is certainly no exception, with its rolling hills, sparkling waters, and relics dating back to 3200 BC.
Though it would be easy to spend weeks at a time just relaxing in the sun on this lovely island, here are some interesting facts and suggestions about how to enjoy a Greece private luxury yacht charter stop in Paros.
Parian marble featured heavily in the history of Paros
From 3200 BC to 1100 BC, locals on the island—which would later be named Paros—farmed the fertile land and engaged in trade with Assyria, Egypt, and Balkan nations under the rule of Alkaios, king of Crete. Despite the fact that Crete used the island as a naval outpost, Paros fell to conquering Ionians in 1100 BC. All that’s left of the Cretans can be found in the Mycenaean Acropolis.
Shortly afterward, Arcadians fleeing from their own wars came to the island and brought with them their leader, Paros, who later became the inspiration for the island’s current name.
Around the 8th century BC, Paros once again prospered due to cultural developments and the mining of Parian marble. This marble was used in many famous sculptures and architectural works, including the Temple of Apollo in Delos, the Asklepieion, the Temple of Zeus at Olympia, and the Venus de Milo.
Ruins at the ancient Paros marble quarries, famous for some of the purest marble in the world
Paros military forces supported the Persians in their conflicts against Greece, but the island was forced to join the Athenian Alliance when Greece ultimately prevailed. Later, it would become part of the Roman Empire and suffer through a period of depression where it was used as a place of exile rather than a hotspot of culture and prosperity.
Paros outlived the Roman Empire, eventually joining the Byzantine Empire and welcoming Christianity to the island. There are many Christian churches open for touring that were built during the Byzantine period.
After the Byzantine era, Paros existed under Venetian, Turkish, and, finally, Greek rule.
The long-lived island of Paros has witnessed the rise and fall of empires and the warring of nations over the span of five millennia. Today, remnants and relics from these past ages remain almost everywhere on Paros.
Visitors in the know stay up late on Paros
Paro, Greece- Tavernas on the Quay
Of the Cycladic Islands in Greece, Paros is one of the top three known for thrilling night life. The island offers something for everyone, from moonlit drinks at intimate beachside bars to pulse-pounding dance club parties.
The capital city of Parikia is full of bars, each with different atmospheres and musical genres. It would be difficult to not find the way to a bar while walking the town’s streets or strolling along the seaside path from the windmill to the northern tip of the bay.
If a quiet, romantic night is more appealing, go to south side of the bay, toward Livadia. The southeastern edge is also perfect for families and couples looking for a fun, but laid-back way to spend the evening.
Naousa Town, Paros Island, Greece
For clubbing and music, Naoussa is the place to be. All it takes is a few seconds outside of one of the many huge establishments to decide which musical genre (and which famous DJ) piques the most interest. Paros is a great island to include on a Cycladic Island yacht charter itinerary.
