Ancient Itanos

The remains of ancient Itanos can be found in close proximity to the Vai palm forest, in an area referred to as Erimoupoli or Ermoupoli.

The founding of Itanos dates back to prehistoric times. The first historical evidence for the existence of the city is given by Homer. It was an important transit trading station and had developed trade relations with the Near and Middle East, to which it exported purple, sponges, glass and fish.

Today, visitors can explore the site and observe the various ruins such as the black stone block watchtower 'Pyrgos' on the western acropolis, the substantial early Christian church on the eastern acropolis, the Hellenistic quarter, the two early Christian churches near the hill leading to Vai, and the cemetery outside the city. Evidence suggests that the area was inhabited during the Venetian occupation following its destruction in Byzantine times.

Information Municipality of Sitia

Photo: Wikipedia

Photo1: visitsitia.gr