Very close to Milos lies Kimolos, the hilliest island in the
Cyclades and one whose predominent colour is as white as
blinding as the chalk it produces. The necropolis found at
Elinika, in the south-west of the island, and the remnants of
the ancient city of Kimolos on the islet of Aghios Andreas
(facing Elinika) are testimony to habitation as far back as the
Mycenean period.
Much later, in the Middle Ages, pirates used the well-concealed
caves of Kimolos as places of refuge. In general terms, the
island’s history has been that of Milos. From the quiet harbour
of Psathia road leads uphill to the capital of Kimolos or Hora,
where almost all the islanders live.
The houses of Hora, in the authentic Cycladic style, are
clustered around the nucleus of the castle, which is itself
divided into two settlements, Messa Kastro (Inner Castle) and
Exo Kastro (Outer Castle). In the former, the outer walls of the
houses form a defensive wall with loopholes for windows and four
entrance gates. The overall impression is of a painting in white
against a blue background. Flowers are grown in all the
courtyards, and the alleyways are cobbled.
Prassa in the north of the island is where the chalk is mined.
There are also medicinal springs with sulphurous waters. The
little tavernas in Hora can provide a basic range offood, and
there are some rooms to rent.
Apart from the beaches at Psathi and Prassa, there is good
swimming at Aliki, Lilnni, Bonatsa, Klima and Monastiria. In
general, Kimolos is a little off the tourist track. Yet it has
superb beaches and would be an ideal spot for those who are fond
of quiet and solitude in an idyllic setting. |
