IA line of mountains, whose highest peak is Mountain Tsiknias (in the myths, the home of the wind-god Aeolus), runs the length of the island. On its lower slopes, walls like the fortifications of old castles divide the terraced fields. The coast of the island is mostly steep, but there are also numerous coves with sandy or pebbly beaches. Among the special characteristics of Tinos are its dove-cotes. These structures developed from simple roosts for pigeons into works of art- and stone-built fountains to be seen in the villages evolved in a similar manner.

The church of Our Lady Photo by Gerda de Coninck

A farmer on Tinos Photo by Denise Dene

  Tinos, capital of the island and its port, is where most of the population lives. A broad paved street leads from the harbour to the low hill on which stands the magnificent church of Our Lady. Built in marble from Paros and Tinos itself, the church stands overlooking the town on the site where a miraculous icon of our Lady was discovered. Next to the church is the Gallery of Tiniot Artists and Modern Greek painters, which has a very interesting collection.

 

How to get here: By ferry from Rafina