SYMI

General Information

The picturesque island of Symi, once the capital of the entire Dodecanese Group of islands, is situated in a remote location near the Turkish coast. It is a favorite among tourists who appreciate the beauty of its nature and the quietness of its atmosphere, but do not wish to be lost in abandon. Symi covers an area of 58 sq.km and has a population of about 2500 inhabitants.

History - Culture

In spite of its small size, Symi has attracted inhabitants inhabited since as far back as the prehistoric age. Legends frequently connect the island with king Nireus, a hero who participated in the Trojan War and was considered to be the most handsome man, second only to Achilles. Symi has shared the same course through history with the rest of the Dodecanese. Its inhabitants have been renowned as master shipbuilders and sponge divers since the Middle Ages, facts which led them to receive privileged treatment by the Turks who conquered the island in 1522. During the years of Turkish domination, Symi was distinguished in the fields of the intellect and literature, a fact proven by the existence of the School of Aghia Marina and the Aigli Library. The Treaty by which the Dodecanese were finally reunited with Greece was signed in Symi, in 1948.

Sights

The natural environment of Symi, accompanied by its surrounding islets, offers sights of enchanting beauty. The island is also adorned with a large number of monuments, especially churches and monasteries, and the ancient ruins. There is the clock tower of 1880 in the port, the picturesque bay of Aghios Aimilianos with two Trophies of the 5th century BC, the Knights" Castle with the beautiful crest at the entrance and the breathtaking view, the fossil forest in the small port of Pedi, and the beautifully decorated monastery of the Nobleman Michail in the settlement of Panoramitis, which attracts many worshippers as well as curious observers.

Entertainment-Sports-Shopping

In spite of its small size, Symi stands out in all three aspects. There is a sufficient number of hotels, restaurants, taverns, coffee shops, cafes and bars at the disposal of the tourists in the main town, whereas there also is a limited number of entertainment facilities in Nimborio and Pedi. There are numerous shops and service offices on the island providing the visitors with all the necessities and many comforts. The overall infrastructure is good, which facilitates traveling around the island. Athletic activities include water sports in Symi, Pedi and Gialos, a marine club, tennis and basketball courts. It is certain that visitors will be leaving this delightful island fully pleased, especially if they have been fortunate enough to attend genuine local traditional festivities.

Access

Ferryboats depart from the port of Piraeus on a regular basis all year round.

Connections

There is a ferryboat connection with Kalymnos, Kos, Rhodes, Nissyros, and Tilos throughout the year while in winter time there is an additional connection with Lipsi, Leros, Megisti and Patmos. Speedboats link Symi, Rhodes and Kos.

Museums

There is an Archeological and a Folk Art Museum in Symi.

Alternative Tourism

Ecotourism, archaeology, gastronomy, spiritual, cultural, sporting (trekking, water sports, sailing, windsurfing, scuba diving).

Useful Telephone Numbers:

Symi Area Code:  22460-

Police Station: 22460-71111

Municipality: 22460-70110

Telephone Company: 22460-71399

Post Office: 22460-71315

Port Office: 22460-71205

Community Health Centre (Ano Symi): 71316

Community Health Centre (Gialos): 71290