THE EVIA -  SPORADES ISLAND MAP
Alonissos 

Alonnisos has some of the most impressive diving in the Aegean . Imagine a white marble rock with red furrows crowned with a dense pine forest, plunging into emerald waters forming columns. This may be seen around most of the island, but the most impressive location is at Votsi, a cove one kilometre north of the port of Patitiri .

The Hora, or Liadromia as the locals call it, is built high up on top of a hill far away from the noisy tourism trade. Some of the old traditional houses still stand there despite the destruction wreaked by the earthquake of 1965. Some have been renovated by their new owners while others quietly resisthe inexplorable toll of time.

Alinnisos lies close to a host of delightful. smaller islands: Kyra Panayia with its picturesque monastery, Yioura with the "Cave of the Cyclops", forested Piperi. Pappous islet, Peristera and Skantzoura. These islands are one of the last remaining habitats of the endangered Mediterranean seal, and the area has been classified a marine park for their protection, There is a seal rehabilitation and research centre at Steni Vala, which has gained renown through the visits there of Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan, known for his efforts to preserve the environment.

HISTORY

Apparently, ancient Alonnisos was the islet of Kyra Panayia, or more likely Psathoura. where the ruins of an ancient city he beneath the waves, Both are to the north of present day Alonnisos: and were once joined with it.

The island has been inhabited since prehistoric times, The ancient city of Ikos , at Kolkkinokastro, was important. Sections of the walls of the ancient fortifications can still be seen. According to tradition, Peleas, the father of Achilles, spent the last years of his life on Alonnisos where his son was buried. One version says that the old name Liadromia derives from Achilliodromia. Several statues and much ancient pottery has been recovered, mainly from Ikos, as have containers for the excellent wine that was produced on the island.