IOs
Population: 2,024 (2011)
ISLAND OVERVIEW
Ios is part of the southern Cyclades group, it is a hilly island with cliffs down to the sea on most sides, situated halfway between Naxos and Santorini. It is about 18 km (11 miles) long and 10 km (6 miles) wide.
The island’s highest peak is Pyrgos, rising to an altitude of 713 meters, situated in the centre of the island. Ios has impressive coasts forming beautiful sandy beaches and bays all around the island.
Chora, the main village is set up on a hill above Ormos Harbour which, due to its narrow pathways and stairs is inaccessible by car. The other settlements are a group of spread out houses in the background of major beaches. Tourism is the main source of income; however the island is famous for its locally produced goat and sheep cheeses. Places of interest are the Odysseus Elytis theatre, the Panagia Gremiotissa church and Homer’s grave.
Ios is one of the most popular destinations in Greece, attracting of tourists from all over the world and is famous for the nightlife and beautiful beaches.
Ios is accessible by ferry from Piraeus port in Athens and from some islands of the Cyclades, like Santorini, Sifnos, Paros and Milos.
The Island & Its History
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From the prehistoric era, thanks to its safe, natural harbour Ios played an important role on the sea roads to Crete. The Phoenicians seem to have arrived on the island and maintained their presence until the 9th century BC.
During the 3rd and 2nd century BC as Ios became part of the islanders’ league, she minted her own coins, most of them can be found in the Berlin Archaeological Museum and British Museum. There are 28 known different coins. They depict Homer, a palm tree or Athena, as she was worshipped on the island.
Although Ios did not have a strong naval force, it was one of the first islands to raise the flag of revolution in when the Greek War of Independence began in 1821.
According to legend, the Greek poet, Homer died in Ios.
Prayer Points
- The people on the island will realize their need for God and their eyes will be opened to the truth and love of God through reading the Bible for themselves.
- The Lord will work in the lives of all the God-fearing religious people already living on this island, and bring healing & refreshment to their lives.
ADOPT THIS ISLAND
If you are committed to praying for this island and its region, please drop us a note, we would love to know about it and keep you posted with prayer updates!
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