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7 Travel Facts You Never Knew About the Greek Islands
You might know it as the destination clogging up your Instagram feed, but the Greek Islands are so much more than pretty vistas. Read on for a few fun travel facts you might have never known about this European holiday hot spot.
1. Greece has over 5,000 islands
Although Greece has more than 5,000 islands, approximately only 200 are populated. Some of these lesser known Greek islands include; Ikaria, Ammouliani, Meganisi, Antiparos and Kythnos.
2. Crete is the largest of all the Greek islands.
The largest and most populous island in Greece, Crete covers a whopping 8,336 square kilometres!
3. Greece’s blue doors keep away evil spirits
Ever wondered why so many of Greece’s islands are awash with beautiful blue and white houses? According to ancient beliefs, this particular shade of blue keeps evil away. The locals call the colour kyanos, which is where the words ‘cyan’ and ‘cyanide’ derived from.
4. Rhodes is the most popular holiday spot in Greece
It’s reported that the city of Rhodes (the capital of the island of Rhodes) is the most popular holiday spot in Greece for travellers. Famous for its perfectly-preserved medieval Old Town and too-good-to-be-true turquoise beaches, we can understand why.
5. Santorini is an active volcano
The island of Santorini actually remains an active volcano (though in a quiet state). Scientists have found evidence of at least 12 large eruptions in the last 200,000 years.
6. Pelicans are the mascots of Mykonos
The official mascot for the island of Mykonos is a charismatic pelican named, Petros who decided to call Mykonos home after being rescued by a resident fisherman. Although Petros isn’t around anymore, his spirit lives on in the locals’ stories.
7. The sun shines 85% of the year in the islands
The Greek islands enjoy almost 300 days of sunshine every year. No wonder it’s one of Europe’s favourite holiday destinations!
