ISLAND OVERVIEW

Tinos, also called Hydrussa from the number of its springs, and Ophiussa because it abounded in snakes, is famous amongst Greeks for the Church of Panagia Evangelistria, its 80 or so windmills and about 1000 ornate dovecotes. 

The Venetians first started systematic breeding of pigeons after discovering that their meat was excellent tasting and their pigeon droppings made high-quality manure.  This is probably the reason that Tinos is one of the most fertile areas in Greece. 

The dovecots are such a part of the culture that even some houses are built in this style!

Tinos has a varied landscape. The mountain of Exobourgo is quite distinct, having a jagged appearance that would be more at home in the Alps. Between Tsiknias and Exobourgo lies the fruitful plain of Falatados. This area is unique on the island as its relatively flat terrain (albeit with an elevation of about 300 metres (980 feet)) is rare on the island. This made it a strong candidate for a proposed airport on the island, but the Meltemi winds and concerns from locals, have all but halted the project.

The landscape around the village of Volax is surreal with giant boulders some the size of multi-storey buildings. 

In total there are 50 villages on the island, where both Greek Orthodox and Roman Catholic populations co-exist.

There is a yearly pilgrimage where pilgrims make their way 800 metres from the ferry pier to the church on their hands and knees as a sign of devotion.

The island’s mineral resources include marble, Verde antico, asbestos and a granite mine.

Ferries take 4 -5 hours to reach Athens.