The Dodecanese Island Complex may consist of twelve real diamonds, some more smaller and equally fascinating little treasures belong administratively to it. And although Symi may be the smallest and most magical destination of the Dodecanese Islands, Chalki is the real earthly paradise. And it is not coincidental that it is called the Little Italy of the Aegean Archipelago.
Niborio, a picturesque settlement in Chalki island
The most famous settlement on the island is Niborio. There, in the harbour, you will see the picturesque and light-bathed houses that look like a painting. You will see the islanders in the windows and courtyards and you will tour the alleys of the settlement. With a single walk in Niborio, you immediately feel your heart overwhelmed by calmness, serenity and happiness. The mansions and restored houses have colours taken out as if from a painter’s palette. They make the scenery look like a fairy tale.
The scenery is complemented by fishing boats rocking on the sea, the clock on the sky-high stone tower and the Town Hall building. There are also, an old mansion with neoclassical architecture and the church of Agios Nikolaos, with its majestic bell tower.
It is a settlement that has been classified as strictly preserved. All renovations and restorations of buildings are done without deviations from the local architectural features of Chalki.
Chalki may not be one of the most popular summer destinations, but it hides some really beautiful treasures. It is the picturesque images, the relaxed life-rhythm of the people of the island and the hospitality of the inhabitants as well. This hospitality was alive and well in Chalki long before it was officially designated as the Island of Peace and Friendship by Unesco during the 1980s. Generosity and welcoming to visitors is always touching.
Photo Source: Enpatrais
It is no coincidence that, in a tribute, the Telegraph called it an “unknown earthly paradise” and a visit to it as “a miracle”, as “a triumph sprinkled with the inimitable moments of its magic”.
What is certain is that you have to walk it to discover all the corners and all the treasures that make it look like an unexplored paradise.
A fragment of the sky, the perfect place to relax and enjoy peaceful summer holidays.
What you should see in Chalki, the paradise of the Dodecanese Islands
- The famous castle at the top of the hill of Agios-Nikolas (St. Nicholas), above the old village, built by the knights of St. John in the 14th-15th century
- The mill of Katsias, located in a place inhabited since the Prehistoric Period.
- The monastery with the miraculous image of Ag. Ioannis Prodromos, who is celebrated on August 29th, when the famous festival takes place.
Leaving Chalki you take all these memories with you and you certainly hope to return soon.
The Greek island that was a pirate kingdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Chalki is known as a charming little paradise and the 'Little Italy of the Aegean Archipelago.' It is famous for its picturesque settlement of Niborio with colorful neoclassical mansions, relaxed atmosphere, and was designated as the Island of Peace and Friendship by UNESCO in the 1980s. The Telegraph has called it an 'unknown earthly paradise.'
Niborio is the most famous settlement on Chalki island, featuring picturesque light-bathed houses that resemble a painting. The harbor is lined with colorful mansions, fishing boats, a stone tower with a clock, the Town Hall, and the church of Agios Nikolaos with its majestic bell tower. It is a strictly preserved settlement where all renovations maintain local architectural features.
The main attractions in Chalki include the castle of Agios-Nikolas (St. Nicholas) built by the Knights of St. John in the 14th-15th century, the mill of Katsias located in a prehistoric area, and the monastery with the miraculous image of Ag. Ioannis Prodromos, which celebrates on August 29th with a famous festival.
Chalki is not one of the most popular summer destinations in Greece, which makes it an ideal choice for travelers seeking peaceful holidays away from crowds. Despite being lesser-known, it hides beautiful treasures including picturesque scenery, a relaxed lifestyle, and the warm hospitality of its inhabitants.
Chalki was officially designated as the Island of Peace and Friendship by UNESCO during the 1980s, recognizing the island's spirit of generosity and hospitality toward visitors. The islanders' welcoming nature and peaceful way of life exemplify the values of peace and friendship that the designation represents.
