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Karpathos is today one of the islands of Dodecanese -
Greece that still retains its traditional character. Its architecture and
folklore blend harmoniously, giving Karpathos a unique identity, different
from that from the other Greek islands. The physicue, the dark complexion
of men and women, have a genuine Greek character. The remarkable
craftsmanship in embroidery, weaving and lacing characterises the dresses
of the local women of Olympos. It's a fine sample of the artistic sensitivity of the island. The high mountains reach to the tranquil clear lacy coasts, where the visitor can enjoy the lush greenery and the local hospitality. The island is now one of the characteristic tourist islands that still keeps all its authenticity. Its natural beauties are superior to those of other islands, especially the areas of Lefkos, Mesohori, Achata, Olympos, etc. Every mountain, mountainside and coast are nothing less than a work of art. The wildness of the landscape blends with the sweetness of nature. Mountains, pine trees, fresh air and sea ,ake a suberb scenery. It is the second island of Dodecanese, with an area of 301 square Km and a coastline of 160 Km. Karpathos lies between Rhodes and Crete. Its distance from Piraeus is 227 miles, covered by boat in 15 to 25 hours, depending on the course that may include other islands. Karpathos is also the second longest island of the Dodecanese (48.5 Km). The name of the island probably comes from an ancient king named Karpas. A central road connects the one end with the other, passing through various villages, while other roads, parallel to this, connect the villages among themselves. On the island we find highlands with an altitude of 1215 meters and lowlands at sea level. There is a rich vegetation of all trees and low grasses. |
