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 Hydra, located at
35 nautical miles from the port of Piraeus, clings to its own tranquillity
and slow pace, the only place in Greece where all types of vehicles are
prohibited. In prehistoric times, the island was inhabited by shepherds who
found there abundant grass and water for their flocks, before a great fire
destroyed its forests and turn it into barren land. By 1821, when the Greek
War of Independence was launched, Hydra had been turned into a formidable
maritime power by 16th century Peloponnesian refugees that had sought
shelter on the island from Turkish persecution. In addition to its
immensurable contribution to Greece's freedom from the Ottomans, all things
considered, Hydra holds a hard-to-beat world record in statesmen
contribution: five prime ministers and 50 ministers have been thus far
supplied by this island in the service of the nation.
 Hydra's over 200-years-old, well preserved, stately mansions give testimony
to its rich and glamorous past. The Tompazis mansion, once a School of Fine
Arts, is now used as a guest house exclusively for art students, while the
Sahtouris mansion now houses the National Merchant Marine Academy. There are
many churches and monasteries that are worth the walk up the island's
winding cobblestone paths. The Assumption of the Virgin Mary with its tall
clock tower is located right in the centre of the island's picture-perfect
harbour. The churches of Agios Ioannis and Ipapanti are distinguished for
their beautiful domes and superb marble arcs. Both perched on the peak of
Mount Eros, the monasteries of Prophet Elia and the convent of Agia Efpraxia
reward visitors with a magnificent view.
 Traditionally a favourite place with artists, the island boasts a large
number of galleries. In addition to unique scenery, crystal-clear waters,
pine grooves, solitude and a quiet backcountry, visitors can enjoy a wide
variety of sea sports, as well as an exciting night life at the various bars,
restaurants and taverns concentrated in Hydra town. The island can easily be
reached from the port of Piraeus by daily ferries or hydrofoils. |
