Paxos & Antipaxos
Population: 2,300 (2011)
ISLAND OVERVIEW
Paxoi (or Paxos) and Antipaxoi (or Antipaxos) are the Ionian’s smallest island group. They sit between Corfu and Lefkada. These islands are relatively untouched by tourism.
Paxoi is approximately eight miles (13 km) in length. The West coast is dominated by steep, white, chalky cliffs which harbour many ‘blue caves’. Much of the attractive landscape is still covered in olive groves and in the mid 60’s olive oil and soap manufacture and fishing were the main industries of the island. Then tourism resulted in a construction boom, which has dramatically altered the coastline around Gaios, the main town of Paxoi.
The island is serviced by ferry’s from the mainland port of Igoumenitsa (1.5 hours), hydrofoils and ferry boats from Corfu (1-2 hours) and from Italy (4 hours).
Antipaxi or Antipaxos is a tiny island (5 km²) about 3 kilometres (2 miles) to the south of Paxos. Antipaxi is famous for its Caribbean like beaches, and the islet is mostly covered in vineyards that belong to the local residents and produce a rich red wine with delicious taste. The islet has a small harbour called Agrapidia where a network of narrow tracks starting from the harbour reaches the island’s interior.
According to a 2011 census the island had a population of 20 people although nowadays it seems deserted.
Sea taxis and caiques are available from the harbour of Gaios to take you to the island of Anti-Paxos or Mongonissi.
The Island & Its History
Although it was possibly inhabited from prehistoric times, the Phoenicians are traditionally held to have been the first settlers on Paxos. The name is believed to be derived from Pax, which means slate.
This island is noted for the Battle of Paxos, fought between the ancient Greek and Illyrian fleets during the First Illyrian War in 229 BC. The Romans ruled the island from the 2nd century BC, and during the Byzantine period and Middle Ages it was frequently attacked by pirates. After various rulers, in 1864 after the war of Independence, Paxi was liberated.
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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