Paxos - The Greek Island
Paxos is a small island that has a population of around 2500 with tourism being its primary income; though locals also rely on fishing and olive oil production which was introduced by the Venetians who ruled the islands in the 14th century. There is an interesting story about the creation of the Islands. Poseidon, the Greek God of the sea, delivered a blow with his powerful Trident to the southern tip of the Corfu. This caused it to break free and begin to float, which formed the Paxos Islands. He created this island as a solitary peace and resting haven for him and his lady Amphitrite, where he could keep their love nest a secret from his wife. In a way, this means that Paxos is a secret getaway for the divine. Luckily, today, mortals can also enjoy its heavenly beauty!
History Of Paxos
The history of Paxos is rich and possibly dates back to prehistoric times. It is noted that the Romans ruled the island from the 2nd century BC and continued their rule during the Byzantine era and the Middle Ages. During the Byzantine rule, the islands were constantly raided by pirates and, by the end of the 14th century, they were taken over by the Venetians. The Venetians had a very strong hold and influence on the culture of the islands which is still visible its architecture. During the crusades of Napoleon in the late 17th century, the island was under his rule. Later, he lost it to the Russians.
After the Russians, the French regained control and ruled the island for 7 years. Then, after the treaty of Paris, all of the Ionian Islands were placed under British Protection. This happened when Paxos surrendered to the Royal Navy frigate HMS Apollo, the 2nd Greek Light Infantry from Cephalonia and the 35th Regiment of the Royal Corsican Rangers.
A year later and the British rule established the Ionian Union in the year 1815. Everything remained peaceful in Paxos and the other Ionian islands for many years. During this period, a lot of improvements were made to the infrastructure, educational system and the judicial system on the islands. Everything seemed to be running smoothly for almost 50 years and it was through this time that many important foundations were laid. Unfortunately, however, there was unrest on the Greek mainland…
The struggle for independence
A fierce war for independence was fuming between the Turks and the Greeks. Things weren’t going well for the Greeks and so, in a bid to help their fellow countrymen, many young men from Paxos also joined the war and fought alongside the Greek soldiers. One such young soldier, who gave his life in the war for Greece, was Yiorgos Anemoyiannis. He was slain by the Turks at a young age of 23. He was killed in a daring and brave attempt to set ablaze a Turkish fleet ship moored on the shores. Unfortunately, he failed and was captured and killed by the Turkish soldiers. Because of his brave and selfless act, he became the local hero for the Paxos islands. You can find his statue at the southern entrance to the Paxos island capital, Gaios harbor.
Eventually free
Finally, in the year 1814, the British gave in to the nationalist sentiment of the Ionian Islands population and allowed the integration of the Ionian Islands with the Kingdom of Greece. Things were stable on the islands until the start of World War II; where the islands were briefly ruled by the Italians and the Germans. In 1944 the islands were freed by the allied forces. They have been under Greek rule ever since.
Different influences
Throughout history, Paxos has had a lot of regional influences that still are prominent in the culture of the islands. This, in addition to all of the different occupiers throughout the years, has given de Paxos islands a deep and rich cultural heritage. There are some incredible beaches and historical ports which are truly breathtaking to behold. Some of the famous places to visit are Gaios, Panayia, St. Nicolas, Lakka, and Loggos.
Unique and calm
Because as there is no airport, Paxos is not an island for the masses. Tourists must travel to Paxos by cruises and boats, making this a dream destination to visit along with your near and dear ones. At Glyfada Beach Villas, we will be happy to host you and make sure you can experience the wonderful Greek atmosphere.
