In Greek transcription, the name of the island sounds like Hydra, which means "water". And initially it was mentioned under the name Idrea, which spoke of the presence of a large number of water sources. Later, for the Russian ear, the sound of the island's name was adapted into a more understandable "Hydra", which is still used even in official sources.

What attracts and surprises this island? First of all - the lack of vehicles and, as a result, the purity of the air. In reality, upon arrival at this sunny place, you will not encounter the usual flow of cars. The only thing the island hasn't gotten rid of is garbage trucks. However, they rarely move through the streets exclusively in a working order.

Tours for Hydra island foreign tourists began to purchase for the first time in the 20th century. Today, however, you can find a wide range of leisure options here. First of all, lovers of solitude and silence come here. The capital of the island is built in the form of an amphitheater and you will find in it beautiful houses made of stone. Some of them even house museums.

If a vacation in Greece, in your understanding, must necessarily include visiting holy places, on the island of Hydra you will find such an opportunity. To do this, it is enough to go to monastery of the prophet Elijah, built at an altitude of 500 meters from sea level. Not only believing travelers, but also lovers of natural beauty strive to get into it.

The best beaches on the island of Hydra

Tours to the island of Hydra are in demand also due to the possibility beach holiday. Local beaches very peculiar, mainly they are distinguished by a rocky bottom. The lack of sand is more than compensated by the purity of the waters.

One of best beaches considered Spilia... It is located closer than others to the city of Hydra, which makes this place attractive in the absence of road transport... Vacationers can find many cafes and cozy restaurants here.

Avlak beach and is located away from shops and cafes, has a rocky bottom, a pier and a marina. Local waters are cool and deep, so most often adults without children rest here.

Vlikos beach created specifically for lovers of privacy. The close proximity to the village of Vlikos makes it very convenient. Going here you don't have to worry about food in advance, because there are taverns and shops on the territory of the village. On the shore you will find a lot of small pebbles and sand. Sea bottom this place is not very rocky, and the natural beauty attracts vacationers here every year.

Plakes Vlikos beach(four seasons) - located near the hotel of the same name. This place is often visited by couples with children, who prefer a sandy bottom to a pebble one. The beach is equipped with sun loungers. The most convenient way to get here is by water taxi.

Bisti beach- located in the southern part of the island. Here you will find a lot of white pebbles, clean air, magnificent pine grove and all the conditions for a comfortable stay with children. There are restaurants and bars not far from the beach, there is the opportunity to go snorkeling and dive to the bottom.

Hydra Island Museums

For those who want to diversify their beach vacation with excursions, there is an opportunity to visit local museums. For example, the Monastiri Museum of Byzantine and Church Art located in Mitropoli. Tourists are invariably amazed by the architecture of this building, built in the 17th century, as well as its unique collection of the rarest icons and church relics.

To see the masterpieces of post-Byzantine art, it is worth visiting the house-museum of Georgos Kunturiotis. In it you will find exhibits dedicated to the formation and development of Greece.

But the most frequently visited place is Hydra Museum containing the historical archive. Here are exhibits from the 18th-20th centuries. Collections include weapons, nautical charts, outfits and devices for moving on the water. The local library contains over 4,000 of a wide variety of books. The archives section contains information about the history and culture of the island, including chronicles, personal archives and church papers.

Hydra Island (Hydra) - a small rocky island - it is the same southern point the globe, where I have so far visited and one of the most beautiful places Greece. Distance to Piraeus is 37 nautical miles, travel time by ship is 3 hours.

The island of Hydra, lying between the Saronic and Argolic gulfs, has an area of ​​50 sq. km, and its length coastline is 55 km. Hydra is a mountainous island. The most high mountain- Eros (593 m), population less than 3000 inhabitants. Unlike other islands in the Argosaronic Gulf, Hydra is mostly an island devoid of vegetation, and only in the southwest do pine trees grow. The oldest settlement discovered on the island dates back to the Mycenaean era. Hydra was subsequently captured by Ermioni, who then sold it to the Samians. Hydra continued to drag out an inconspicuous existence until the 17th century, when the island gradually acquired a powerful merchant fleet, which later, during the Napoleonic wars, monopolized transportation throughout the Mediterranean.

It is difficult to find another such island city. A round port with yachts, surrounded by rocky mountains, on which two- and three-story houses stand almost close to each other from the embankment and almost to the very mountain peaks.

Since the Middle Ages, Hydra was inhabited by fishermen and sailors, who with each generation became more professional seafarers and successful traders, thanks to which, by the beginning of the 19th century, Hydra began to be called "Little England" - such a large number of wealthy shipowners for such a small island. The population of the island was then about 25,000 people, and the fleet consisted of about 120 modern, well-equipped ships, which made it possible to conduct maritime trade without fear of ships Ottoman Empire and Mediterranean pirates. It was then that rich mansions, 6 monasteries and more than 300 churches were built, which make up the modern picture of the island.

I ran around the deck with my camera, trying to capture the views of the rapidly approaching island:

These houses with traditional tiled roofs make an unforgettable impression from the first moment on the island.

Near the port of Hydra there are massive old rich houses of captains of 1821 (built by Genoese and Venetian architects) - Kunturiotis, Tobasis (which houses the department of the fine arts), Voulgaris, Miaulis, Kriezis and Tsamados (where the Merchant Marine School is located).

I must say that by the beginning of the national liberation war against the Turks in 1821, the population of Hydra was about 30,000 people (most of them were people who came here in search of refuge), and the number of ships reached 150. Then there were rich shipowners - the brothers Kunturiotis, Miaulis, Sakhturis , Tobazis, and others, who equipped ships at their own expense, spending fortunes to aid the rebellion. Hydra's fleet, in cooperation with the fleets of the islands of Spetses and Psara, inflicted very significant damage on the Turkish fleet. The exploits and heroism of these sailors were known throughout Europe. The islanders, in addition to ships, also used the so-called "firemen" ("arsonists") - small boats loaded with explosives, which sailed at night to Turkish ships and blew them up. The victories of the inhabitants of Hydra and their companions at sea became the main factor in the success of the struggle of the Greek people.

Some of these houses are open to the public, allowing you to explore the interior, with marble floors, wood-beamed ceilings and antique furniture. At the exit from the port, there are ancient cannons that defended the city.

These houses are cubic in shape with only one terrace, sometimes with one courtyard. Flowers grow in the courtyards, which are not easy to see from the outside, because stone walls high. Houses are usually gray in color. Severity of forms and lines dominates everywhere. However, the white frame around the window is enough to eliminate the monotony and give the houses a welcoming look.

The first among the admirers of Hydra are people of art, especially artists. Therefore, the Faculty of Fine Arts of the Athens Polytechnic Institute opened its department here.

Anchored in the port of Hydra:

As already mentioned, the inhabitants of Hydra have long been engaged in navigation and shipbuilding, they made a significant contribution to equipping the Greek fleet during the national liberation war against the Turks. Again view of the fort with cannons:

Currently, the main occupation of the island's population is tourism, small trade and mining. sea ​​sponges... On these horses, lined up on the embankment, one could ride:

Garbage trucks are the only motorized transport on this piece of land. All other motor vehicles are outlawed - cars, motorcycles and even bicycles! So locals and tourists besides themselves use everything possible - from "water taxis" to donkeys. The owner of this vehicle, which passed us with a clatter, is a typical Greek, tanned, thin, unshaven:

The central part of the town, the so-called Chora, picturesque and colorful:

And the merchants on Hydra seem to speak all languages, and, nodding their heads that their prices outside are "all lies", rush to lure inside their shops.

In the middle of the embankment, near the sea, there is a monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin, where it is currently located Cathedral Hydras.

In the courtyard there is a statue of the Hydra hero - Miaulis.

The second bust is most likely Saint Macarius Notaras, Metropolitan of Corinth, the founder of "philocalism", who lived here for some time:

A few more pictures of the courtyard of the monastery:

In the 20th century, Hydra became the first Greek island open to foreign tourists, on Hydra in 1956, John Negulesco shot his famous film "Boy on a Dolphin" with Sophia Loren and Alan Ladd, and in 1960, Jules Dassin - the film "Phaedra" with Anthony Perkins, Ralph Vallone and Melina Mercury. Among the fans of the island are: Brigitte Bardot, Audrey Hepburn, Anthony Quinn, Joan Collins, Aristotle Onassis, Maria Callas, Jackie Kennedy-Onassis, Valentino fashion designer. For a long time, the owner of the enchanting timbre Leonard Cohen lived on Hydra.

On this our cruise to the islands was over and on the way back we admired the whimsical play of clouds and the setting sun:

There the waves will rush about the dawn
On a sandy and empty shore,
And thirty beautiful knights
In succession, clear waters come out,
And their uncle is with them the sea ...
- seems to be true?

Hydra is one of the most picturesque islands in Greece. business card has become incomparable architecture and nature, the beauty of which cannot be described in words. On the amazing island there is no car traffic at all, locals move exclusively on donkeys and horses, which makes these places even more interesting and attractive for travelers. Fans of excursions, beach holidays and hiking will surely like it here, the island is rich historical monuments and natural attractions.

Despite the fact that the island of Hydra is relatively small, there are about 300 churches on its territory, as well as 6 ancient monasteries that served as fortifications during the war years and saved the lives of thousands of people. It is worth starting your acquaintance with the historical sights with a walk through the port area; the entrance to the port is crowned with beautiful bastions. For many years they protected the island from invaders and became its permanent symbol.

Near the port area, there is a beautiful building with a facade made of rare marble species; today it is the location of the Historical Archive Museum. Within its walls are presented extensive collections of unique historical documents, hundreds of priceless archaeological finds and art objects with a long history are kept. Copyright www.site

Among the religious sites, one of the most beautiful is the Assumption of the Virgin Mary Church. It is located very close to the coast, in a beautiful rocky area. Since the most popular beach of Hydra is located next to the religious landmark, almost all guests of the island visit the church. An equally impressive religious monument is the Church of St. Constantine, one of the youngest churches on the island. The church was built near the center of Hydra, on a high hill with a magnificent panoramic view of the surrounding area.

Hydra was the last island of our 10-day sailing trip Aegean... And I must say that we did not leave the most delicious for the end in vain. Hydra - an incredibly colorful island, completely different from the others we visited on this journey, sincere and completely devoid of cars ... No one is in a hurry here, there is always a forest of yacht masts in a small cozy marina, here is one of the most delicious cappuccino in the world. The famous film was filmed here " Boy on dolphin"with Sophia Loren in the title role and many celebrities love to visit here ...

Hydra Island is located very close to east coast the Peloponnese peninsula and is part of the Saronic Islands group. Relative proximity to major port Piraeus has made this island one of the favorite holiday destinations for the people of Athens. During peak season, the resident population of about 3,000 is simply lost among the many tourists.

The island of Hydra is located very close to the eastern coast of the Peloponnese and is part of the Saronic group of islands. The relative proximity to the large port of Piraeus has made this island one of the favorite holiday destinations for Athens residents. During peak season, the resident population of about 3,000 is simply lost among the many tourists.

In ancient times, Hydra was a sparsely populated island, Herodotus mentions it only in passing, and the first large settlement dates back only to the Mycenaean era. But everything changed in the 16th century. During this time, Hydra became a haven for those who tried to hide from the constant clashes between the Venetian Republic and the Ottoman Empire. These were mainly refugees from the territory of modern Albania. In the middle of the 18th century, the inhabitants of the island began building ships and engaged in maritime trade. At the same time, he does not disdain piracy. They sailed to Egypt and the Black Sea, and during the Napoleonic Wars they transported goods to England, regardless of the prohibition stipulated by the law on the Continental Blockade.

Since the island paid taxes on time, the Ottoman Empire practically did not pay attention to it, and by the 19th Hydra gained power and strength. The vast majority of the stately mansions on the island were built with money from local merchants. At the zenith of the power of Hydra in 1821, the population of the island was 28 thousand (now about 3 thousand). During the Greek War of Independence, the island provided 150 ships for participation in the hostilities. Moreover, it was this island that gave Greece outstanding military leaders - Admiral Andreas Miaulis and the commander of the Greek fleet, Georg Canduriotis.

Since the island paid taxes on time, the Ottoman Empire practically did not pay attention to it, and by the 19th Hydra gained power and strength. The vast majority of the stately mansions on the island were built with money from local merchants. At the zenith of the power of Hydra in 1821, the population of the island was 28 thousand (now about 3 thousand). During the Greek War of Independence, the island provided 150 ships for participation in the hostilities. Moreover, it was this island that gave Greece outstanding military leaders - Admiral Andreas Miaulis and the commander of the Greek fleet, Georg Canduriotis.

After the liberation of the country, the sea and shopping centers began to gradually move, initially to Ermoupolis, the island of Syros, and then to Piraeus. With the introduction of steamships and steel shipbuilding in the fleet, Hydra fell into decay by the beginning of the 20th century. At the same time, the island gave Greece several famous artists and inspired the work of world-renowned artists such as Picasso, Pablo and Chagall, Mark Zakharovich. Since 1936, a branch of the Athens School of Fine Arts has been operating here. Today Hydra is an island for tourists, and in its small marina, even in the off-season, it is quite difficult to find a free place to moor a yacht.

After the liberation of the country, maritime and trade centers began to gradually move, initially to Ermoupolis, the island of Syros, and then to Piraeus. With the introduction of steamships and steel shipbuilding in the fleet, Hydra fell into decay by the beginning of the 20th century. At the same time, the island gave Greece several famous artists and inspired world famous artists such as Picasso, Pablo and Chagall, Mark Zakharovich. Since 1936, a branch of the Athens School of Fine Arts has been operating here. Today Hydra is an island for tourists, and in its small marina, even in the off-season, it is quite difficult to find a free place to moor a yacht.

The main port of the island is the city of the same name, Hydra. This is far from an ordinary port. Here you always clearly feel how this place is connected with the past thanks to the rising amphitheater of cafes and mansions, creating the atmosphere of a performance, the main participant of which is the island itself.

The main port of the island is the city of the same name, Hydra. This is far from an ordinary port. Here you always clearly feel how this place is connected with the past thanks to the rising amphitheater of cafes and mansions, creating the atmosphere of a performance, the main participant of which is the island itself.

The history and entire existence of the island is inextricably linked with Athens. Now it is a resting place for representatives of the aristocracy and bohemians of the Greek capital, who are tired of the rhythms of life in the metropolis and strive to change their daily routine as much as possible, enjoy the virgin beauty of the island, stretch out on foot - and all this is an hour's journey from the port of Piraeus. Therefore, this kind of "island of the capital" attracts a lot of famous people from Greece and from all over the world, among the fans of the island are: Brigitte Bardot, Audrey Hepburn, Anthony Quinn, Joan Collins, Arius Onassis, Maria Kalas, Jackie Kennedy-Onassi, fashion designer Valentino ... For a long time, the owner of the enchanting timbre Leonard Cohen lived on Hydra. The island enjoys great love among representatives of creative professions; during the six-month season, various creative exhibitions and meetings are constantly held on the island.

The history and entire existence of the island is inextricably linked with Athens. Now it is a resting place for representatives of the aristocracy and bohemians of the Greek capital, who are tired of the rhythms of life in the metropolis and strive to change their daily routine as much as possible, enjoy the virgin beauty of the island, stretch out on foot - and all this is an hour's journey from the port of Piraeus. Therefore, this kind of "island of the capital" attracts a lot of famous people from Greece and from all over the world, among the fans of the island are: Brigitte Bardot, Audrey Hepburn, Anthony Quinn, Joan Collins, Arius Onassis, Maria Kalas, Jackie Kennedy-Onassi, fashion designer Valentino ... For a long time, the owner of the enchanting timbre Leonard Cohen lived on Hydra. The island enjoys great love among representatives of creative professions; during the six-month season, various creative exhibitions and meetings are constantly held on the island.

The tourist popularity of the island was facilitated by the film "Boy on a Dolphin", filmed on the island in 1957 with Sophia Loren in the title role. In 2006, a sculpture of the same name was erected here, dedicated to the film.

One important feature Hydri is that it is the only island in Greece where the use of motor vehicles is completely prohibited. Vehicle- from a car to the smallest scooter. There aren't even bicycles here.

As a transport and means of transportation around the island exclusively motor boats, mules and donkeys (I will talk about this in a separate post)

As a transport and means of transportation around the island, only motor boats, mules and donkeys (I will talk about this in a separate post)

The architecture of the island is very organic and thoroughly imbued with Mediterranean flavor and the spirit of history

The architecture of the island is very organic and thoroughly imbued with Mediterranean flavor and the spirit of history

Narrow streets with a huge number of cafes and taverns spread across the hills from the harbor in different directions. Tables are often located right on the pavement, attracting tourists

Narrow streets with a huge number of cafes and taverns spread across the hills from the harbor in different directions. Tables are often located right on the pavement, attracting tourists

Everything is mixed in narrow streets - different eras, shops, cafes, people, live plants in tubs and pots.

Everything is mixed in the narrow streets - different eras, shops, cafes, people, living plants in tubs and pots.

You never know where this or that narrowing street will lead

You never know where this or that narrowing street will lead

Geometry of Hydra

Geometry of Hydra

Crossroads

Crossroads

Residential buildings

Residential buildings

Dark alley ...

Dark alley ...

At the end of which you suddenly find yourself on the top of another hill with beautiful view on the rooftops of the city

... at the end of which you suddenly find yourself on the top of another hill with a beautiful view of the rooftops of the city

And geometry again

And geometry again

Locals ..

Locals ..

Very good-natured and welcoming

... very good-natured and welcoming

Trading takes place right in the narrow streets. Cafe-shop-shop-vegetable rows-residential building ..

Trading takes place right in the narrow streets. Cafe-shop-shop-vegetable rows-residential building ..