Karpathos Maps

Karpathos is the second-largest island of the Dodecanese, located between Rhodes and Crete in the southern Aegean. The elongated island stretches 30 miles in length, covers 125 square miles, and has a population of approximately 6,500 residents. Pigadia (also known as Karpathos Town) serves as the capital and main port on the southeast coast.

The island is characterized by a rugged, mountainous spine running north to south, with Mount Kali Limni reaching 3,986 feet as the highest peak. The north and south of the island have historically been relatively isolated from each other due to the challenging terrain. The northern village of Olympos (also spelled Olymbos) is one of Greece's most traditional settlements, built on a mountain ridge at 2,000 feet elevation. Women in Olympos still wear traditional costumes daily, and the village preserves customs, dialect, and music found nowhere else.

Karpathos has numerous beaches, particularly on the east coast, including Apella, Kyra Panagia, and Ammopi. The west coast features dramatic cliffs and is more exposed to winds. The small island of Saria, separated from the northern tip by a narrow strait, contains ruins of the ancient city of Nisyros and the early Christian basilica of Agia Sofia. The Archaeological Museum in Pigadia displays finds from Mycenaean through Roman periods.

Mesochori, located in the center of the island, preserves traditional architecture and serves as a gateway to mountain hiking trails. Arkasa on the southwest coast, near the site of ancient Arkeseia, features remnants of early Christian basilicas with floor mosaics. The island's economy is based on agriculture, livestock, and tourism, with Karpathos Airport providing connections to Athens and Rhodes. Many Karpathians historically emigrated, particularly to the United States, and remittances played a significant economic role.

The Facts:
Region: South Aegean.
Regional unit: Karpathos.
Cities: Karpathos, Olympos.
Population: ~ 6,500.
Area: 125 sq mi (325 sq km).