Every island in the Aegean has a story to tell. The history of Kythira, however, holds a deep sense of reverence and a mystical charm that leaves every visitor in awe.
From the Phoenicians to the Birth of the Goddess (1500 BC – 500 BC)
The first to approach the island in an organised way were the Phoenicians, the great seafarers of antiquity, who founded trading posts here. At that time, Kythira was mainly a strategic passage.
A little later, the Minoans arrived from Crete and established a thriving colony in the area of Avlemonas, giving the island a distinct cultural identity. With the arrival of the Mycenaeans (1400–1100 BC), everything changed radically. The worship of the goddess Aphrodite spread from the jagged beaches to every corner of the Kytherian land. When Homer (800 BC) wrote about the “Kytherian” island, he was no longer referring to a simple harbour, but to the official, sacred home of the goddess of Love.
Porphyroussa: Ancient Kythira and the Colour of Luxury (800 BC – 1453 AD)
Did you know that in antiquity Kythira was called Porphyroussa? The name was no coincidence, as the island was famous for producing precious purple dye. This rare pigment was extracted from sea shells and dyed fabrics that deep, noble crimson which was the ultimate symbol of luxury and power. Kythira exported purple dye to Rome, Egypt and the entire known world, enjoying enormous economic and cultural prosperity.
Venetian Rule and the Tragedy of Paleochora (1503 – 1800)
In 1503, the Venetians decided to fortify the island against the expanding threat, building the imposing Castle of Chora. It was not just a fortress, but a powerful symbol of the might of the Most Serene Republic of Venice.
However, in 1537, the darkest page in the island’s history was written in the blood of its people. The Ottoman admiral and pirate Hayreddin Barbarossa invaded Kythira and completely destroyed the fortified capital of the time, Paleochora. He razed 80 noble mansions and 21 beautiful churches. The ruins of Paleochora still stand there today, silent yet haunting. But the people of Kythira did not abandon their land. With unmatched determination, they rebuilt their lives, this time moving the island’s centre to Chora.
The 18th Century and the Commercial Renaissance
During the 18th century, the island became a refuge for many educated refugees and Phanariots seeking safety. New trading posts opened, foreign consulates were established on the island, and Kythira enjoyed a new period of prosperity, this time based on international maritime trade and letters. It was yet another chapter in the island’s ongoing evolution.
Kythira Today: The Immortal Island
What has changed since then? In truth, nothing of real value. The Castle still stands guard at the top, the secret caves remain untouched, and these places radiate the same timeless sanctity. And of course, the people here still worship the goddess Aphrodite — if nothing else — through their imagination, their love of life and their open-hearted hospitality.
Are you a lover of history and culture? Book the History-Lovers Package and let the past sweep you away!
