Greece Kassos, The Least Discovered Of The Greek Islands

Kassos has had an often violent recorded history beginning with the arrival of Phoenician settlers. Despite the chaos around them, the islanders have continued their peaceful existence, maintaining their traditional lifestyle. With an average of ten tourists at a time, Kassos has two taxis, no buses, and plenty of serenity to offer.

This island, the most southern and western of the Dodecanese group, has a long history. First settled by Phoenicians, Kassos is then mentioned by Homer. The island's name is that of a Cretan prince, therefore Minoan settlers are also part of Kassos' early history. In the Eighth Century BC, Kassos was conquered by Rhodes.

Three hundred years later, the island was part of the Athenian League. During the Middle Ages, Kassos was under Venetian rule, in name, but in actuality it was a pirate's nest. This is when the noted caves came in handy - the people of Kassos retreated and hid in the caves during pirate attacks.

In the 1700's the seamen of Kassos established a merchant fleet, and for the first time the island grew rich. The men and the ships were vital during the Greek War of Independence in 1821. Because Kassos had been so important in the winning of that war, the Turks seized the island and fired it. There were few survivors. Turkish rule lasted until 1921 when the Italians took control. Kassos was freed in 1948. By then, the island and its people were totally impoverished.

Despite the chaos and violence around them and inflicted on them, the people of Kassos continued their peaceful activities and managed to preserve their traditions which can still be experienced today.

The small island, 66 square kilometers, has just over 1,000 people. In August the population triples as extended family members who have emigrated return home for a visit. Otherwise, there are not usually more than about ten visitors on the island at one time. Kassos' reputation is of being the least discovered of the Greek Islands.

Limited tourism means not many people speak English. It means two taxis and no buses serve the whole island. But, does that matter when each of the five villages is in walking distance from anywhere on the island! Visitors who have experienced Kassos recommend walking, hiking, exploring the island on foot, getting close and witnessing the vanishing traditions.

Because of their history of poverty and isolation, Kassos remains unspoiled. There are no night clubs, and so locals create improvised celebrations - for instance, inviting everyone to come and recite limericks. The pace on Kassos is slow. Quiet days of fishing, hiking, snorkeling...isn't that what a vacation should be?

The capital of Kassos is Fri, the island's only harbor. About 250 people live in this town known for its picturesque stone houses. There is an airport on the island. One place of interest is Sellai, a cave near Ellinokamara. Sellai is 30 meters deep and 8 meters wide. Inside are fantastic stalactites. There are traces of a Neolithic settlement.

The island is dotted with mitafa, old shepherds' huts, reminding visitors of a long tradition of animal herding. Every island has its culinary specialties, and Kassos' is based on the local cheeses, another clue that livestock, goats and sheep, are herded here.

Kassos is mountainous and steep with a rocky shoreline, and few beaches. It is full of rugged people who live a tranquil, unspoiled life.