Situated to the south of Tilos and west of Rhodes, Chalki has
been inhabited since antiquity, when it must have been very
prosperous, judging from the coins found by archaeologists.
Its name most probably reflects the copper ore (halkos) once
mined there.
It is a small but mountainous island, just 28 square kilometres
in area.
The island capial cum port is called variously Chalki or
Nimborio. Situated on the southeast coast, its two-storey houses
with their tile roofs seem to climb up the sides of the hill
overlooking the bay of the same name. Worth a visit is its
church of Aghios Nikolaos, built in 1861, whose magnificent bell
tower soars above the surrounding houses.
In earlier times, the capital was at Horio, which was placed
well inland in an effort to escape the frequent pirate raids
that were once the scourge of the Aegean. At its peak, it
boasted 4,000 inhabitants; nowadays it is virtually deserted.
Its stone houses, built in tiers like an amphitheatre, are mute
reminders of its past prosperity. Above Horio the ruined
mediaeval castle occupies the site of the ancient acropolis.
Within its walls is another church dedicated to St. Nicholas (Aghios
Nikolaos) with frescoes.
Pontamo is the only beach in Chalki accessible on foot from
Nimborio (10 min.), but caiques are on hand to take you to its
other wonderful beaches: Trachia, FtenAghia, Sarri, Chania and
Dyo Villi. |
