Well known as the island where the great poet Homer died, author of the Illiad and Odyssey. Over hundreds of years a myth has grown and the belief is that Homer died in Ios and his tomb is located in the north of the island near the beach of Plakoto. Archaelological discoveries and ancient historical texts indicate that Homer was buried in Ios at the birthplace of his mother, Klymeni.
During the ancient years, the island was emigrated by Ionians and later became member of the great Athenian Alliance. In the beginning of the 13th century, Ios was occupied by the Venetians who built a castle in Chora (city center).
Later in 1537, Ios was occupied by the Turks until 1832 it was liberated along with the other Cycladic islands during the years of the Greek revolution against the Turkish oppression.
A version about the origin of the island's name claims that it derives from the name of the Ionians, but this doesn't seem to be valid linguistically, because in such a case the name would be "Ionia" or "Ionis".
According to another version, the name derives from the Phoenician word "Iion", meaning "a heap of stones". This version doesn't seem valid either, as we know that the Phoenicians had inhabited places that were much rockier than Ios.
Finally, according to the prevailing version, Ios took its name from the violets (Greek "ion") that fill uts countryside each spring.
Today, Ios is changing day by day and it´s a typical example of the complex of islands in the area. It perfectly combines the classic white houses style, with small windows and big doors along with the small roads and whitewashed pavements.
Dozens of churches are found all over with the biggest one in the center of Chora. Tradition meets modern life and entirely unites with the cultural background of the people. Guests experience the famous Greek hospitality and kindness in its greatest moments.
Regardless of the party atmosphere there is always time to visit the Archeological and Folkloric museum in Chora or the Modern Art museum in Kolitsani
