Enchanting yet still unknown to the majority of travelers, Tinos is one of the most interesting Cycladic islands to visit. You will enjoy the unique architecture, the picturesque villages, the wonderful beaches and the traditional
culture and mouthwatering gastronomy. Tinos is know as the island, carved by man and wave. It is the homeland of renowned great artists of marble carving such as Gyzis, Lytras, Chalepas, Filippotis and Sochos, who have
been the last famous names to have held the baton of the island’s marble-carving tradition. According to the legend, the famous sculptor of the ancient times, Phidias, had taught the secrets of his art to the locals. Their
admirable craft is displayed in chapels, fountains, arches and pigeon lofts.

The Scenic Villages

Pyrgos is one of the largest villages of the island and, definitely, the centre of the marble art of Tinos. The fountain dedicated to the Greek Revolution of 1821, the marble work on the churches, the houses and the two museums make obvious that sculpture enjoys a long tradition in Pyrgos. Since 1955 the Art School for Marble Sculpture has supported this long tradition.

Arnados is Tino’s highest village is on the south flank of the Kechrovouni Mountain, close to the Church museum where you can see old icons, books and other religious items. A breathtaking panorama is the backdrop to
classical Tinos-style cooking with meat prepared with local ingredients. Visit the monastery of Kechrovouni, a big edifice looking like a fortified village. There you can see the cell of nun Pelagia, and a museum where several
remarkable icons from the18th and 19th centuries, as well as other important heirlooms, are kept.

Volax is a tiny village, located in the interior of the island, almost hidden in the middle of rounded, giant granite blocks, with houses that are built onto the rocks. It is one of the most interesting villages to explore, as its
architecture is unique on the island. Although small in size, the village has two tavernas, a gift shop, a folklore museum, a small stone open-air theater and a few remaining basket weavers still making their sturdy artifacts. You can also find local honey, herbs, dried figs and tomatoes, capers and wine.

On a steep slope high above Ysternia Bay there is the village of Ysternia, between Kardiani and Pyrgos. Apart from its spectacular views you will also admire plenty of marble adornments on houses, churches and in the pretty town square, as this village is yet another home to marble artists with a long tradition of carving. Falatados is a village with a rich history, stretching back to the 14th Century, and where agriculture and cattle
breeding still play a role. Visit the church of Agios Ioannis and admire its marbled decoration. In the picturesque passage next to the Church you can have a coffee and taste delicious homemade desserts. In the tavernas, you can taste delicious meat and offal specialties on a spit or on the grill, as well as a wide range of appetizers.