Dodecanese

The island cluster of the Dodecanese lies in the SE Aegean Sea, in the sunniest corner of Greece.  It comprises twelve main islands and numerous smaller ones, each with its own characteristics.  The Dodecanese are all about enchanted beaches; significant archaeological sites; awe-inspiring Byzantine and Medieval monuments; traditional settlements; and architectural gems erected during the Italian Occupation, an overall picture which has showcased the Dodecanese as one of the preferred tourism destination in the Mediterranean. 

The cluster’s two largest islands, Rhodes and Kos are the most popular destinations.  Still, the Dodecanese islands of Karpathos, Patmos, Leros, Simi, Kalymnos, and Astypalea despite the large volume of tourism they receive they have managed to retain their traditional nature.  The smaller and less developed Dodecanese islands of Tilos, Nisiros, Lipsi, Halki, Kassos, Kastellorizo, and Agathonisi are ideal for relaxed and tranquil holidays. 

The history of the Dodecanese is an illustrious one and goes back many centuries.  After having sustained pirate raids, and having lived under the rule of St John’s Knights, of the Ottomans, and of the Italians, the Dodecanese were finally united with Greece in 1948.