Tinos, the holy island of Megalochari.

Tinos is renown around the world as the holy island of Megalochari (the island of Virgin Mary). In ancient times, the island was also known as Ophiussa and Hydroessa. The island is divided into three municipalities; the municipalities of Tinos and Exombourgo and the community of Panormos.

Tinos was ruled by the Venetians who largely influenced its architecture and especially the churches. From 1715 to 1821, the island was governed by the Ottoman Empire before joining with Greece.

Tinos attracts mainly ecclesiastical tourism thanks to its Great Church of Virgin Mary. Many religious people ascend the hill up to Virgin Mary church on their knees. In general, there are many museums and archaeological sites on the island.

Places to visit

  • The monastery of Virgin Mary (Evagelistria).
  • Artists museum.
  • The monastery of Kechrovouniou.
  • The archaeological museum.
  • The villages of Triantaros, Diochoro, Exomvourgo, Ktikados and Falatados.
  • Swimming Beaches: Kolimbithra, Pachia Amos, Lihnaftia, Aghios Fokas, Kionia, Halakes.

How to arrive on the island

  • By boat from Piraeus duration 5 hrs
  • By Hydrofoil from Rafina duration 2 hrs