Is there any other place more fitting for a history buff than Greece? Or more specifically, the Greek Islands? Home to one of the most ancient civilizations that ever lived, many of what you'd see here have been around since the dawn of time. They're relics and ruins that harken back to the earliest examples of human life and society. And you'll especially find them on islands like Crete, Aegina, Ikaria, and more! While the rest of the world knows them as great summer getaway destinations, the history buff in you will likely prefer their historic appeals more.
Aegina
Truth be told, Aegina isn't exactly one of the most popular Greek Islands out there. Seasoned travelers know about it, but the rest? Most tourists will probably go to places like Santorini and Mykonos than Aegine. Not unless you're a history buff. Located not too far from Athens, this fairly obscure island actually rivaled the Greek capital back in 1200 BCE. The island was the first to mint coins, had an impressive fleet, and a fairly bustling trade. Of course, it's not without its fair share of temples too. There's the Temple of Aphaia, for example, which is one-third of the Sacred Triangle.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Corfu
More often than not, Corfu is known as one of the “party islands” in Greece. It's a beautiful paradise, sure, complete with
many stunning beaches. But tourists mostly flock here to enjoy its exciting nightlife. It's pretty stellar! With that said, however, this also doesn't mean that Corfu doesn't have anything to offer history buffs. After all, the island is a mix of British and Venetian influences. It's even home to the first modern opera in Greece! Though not exactly the Ancient Greece that you were expecting, this part of the country's (and the island's) history is still fascinating nonetheless!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Crete
Ahh, Crete! It's safe to say that this is likely the most historic among the Greek Islands on this list. This is the place where history buffs can learn all about Minoan culture. An ancient civilization from the Bronze Age, they flourished in Crete, leaving behind some of the most stunning ruins, not just in Greece, but arguably in the entire Mediterranean. You'll see them in various
towns in Crete, imposing with their centuries-long glory, standing tall for the all the world to see. You'd especially want to check out the colorful Minoan palaces. They're far from the kinds of Greek ruins you were probably expecting!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Ikaria
You've never heard of Ikaria before, have you? Just like Aegina, this isn't exactly one of the most famous Greek Islands. But it's definitely one of the most historic! For one thing, it's the oldest Aegean Island, having been inhabited as far back as 7000 BC. The Pelasgians first settled down here, an ancient civilization from the pre-Hellenic Neolithic Age. And in the 10th century AD, the Castle of Koskina was built. it's a Byzantine fortress at the center of the island. And history buff will go gaga over such a site. As will the most experience archeologists too!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Mykonos
You're probably surprised to see Mykonos on this list, aren't you? Known as a luxurious island, often the playground for the rich and famous, it's hard to think of it as a historic site. But it is! Or at least, there are many throughout the
different towns in Mykonos! Right off the bat, there's the coastal town of Little Venice, a series of 18th-century houses that once housed shipping merchants that often traded to and from the island. By its name alone, you can already tell that this is part of the Venetian influence that swept across various Greek Islands. There are also more than 600 Byzantine Churches built on the island, each more fascinating than the next!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Rhodes
For tourists, the town of Lindos on Rhodes island is another idyllic fishing village. But for history buffs, it's a must-see archeological site! Especially its Acropolis! Though not as famous as the one in Athens, these ruins are still pretty impressive. They stand at 116 meters above sea level, with various columns still standing in their full ancient glory. And though most of the Acropolis has fallen, you can still tell just how grandiose and imposing it once was back in the day. Even ordinary tourists will find it pretty spectacular too!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Skopelos
Compared to the likes of Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, and Corfu, Skopelos isn't all that popular. It's one of the finest Greek Islands out there, but far from the most famous. Nevertheless, the island is still pretty beloved. Especially by history buffs. Around 1600 BC, the Minoans from Crete settled down on this island. It was even said that the mythical King Staphylos, son of Dionysus, the god of wine, introduced the beverage to the locals. As such, Skopelos became an integral part of Greek mythology and folklore. The island even has a great museum dedicated to such legends.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
If you're a history buff, then you'd feel right at home on any of the Greek Islands. From relics to ruins, these beautiful paradises have a lot of stories to offer. Some of which are the oldest to ever exist!
