Kastelorizo

Kastelorizo is the most eastern-most part of Greece, lying 72 nautical miles south of Rhodes. The principal settlement is a charming ensemble of colourful houses of exceptional architecture, impressive churches and picturesque alleys.

Kastelorizo has an ancient history and  great naval tradition. The island’s ancient name ‘Megisti’ comes from the island’s legendary first inhabitant, Megisteas.

At the end of 19^th century the island reached a peak and by 1900 had 13,000 inhabitants. Later, many islanders emigrated to Australia or Egypt, or, during the Second World War, fled to Palestine to avoid Italian and German bombing. Now, the island (extending over a surface of just 9km² and with a coastline of just 19km) has only 500 inhabitants. Kastelorizo was united with Greece in 1948. The island can be reached by ferry from Piraeus and Rhodes and by aeroplane from Rhodes.

Source: GNTO