THASOS - FROM MYTH TO HISTORY
From haze of myths and pre-history, the first habitants of Thasos come into view. The ancient writers call the island 'Hyarea', meaning 'Clear and Fair'. But its name, that has been kept unalterable through the centuries, is owed to the legendary Thasos, son of Aginoras, king of the Phoenicians. According to Herodotus, Thasos with other Phoenicians that followed him in his travels, was the first resident of the island (1600-1500 B.C.). The Phoenicians are the first users of all the wealth-producing resources of the island, mainly mines and wood.
THE GREEK PARIANS
From the 7th century B.C. the Parians that belong to the very powerful greek tribe of the Ionians, with Telesikles as their leader, reached the island after consulting the Oracle of Delfi. With them traveled the poet Archilohos, son of Telesikles, who wrote wonderful poems about the island and the adventures they encountered. The Parians rules the island. A new era, the greek era, open its gates of Thassian history.
THE THASSIAN STATE
From the 7th century B.C., a powerful Greek/Thassian state is formed, with colonies, big economic and naval activity and cultural development. For most periods of time, the main governing system is democracy. The twelve gods of Olympus are worshipped religiously. Hercules is the patron god of the island. The 'Mysteries of Demetra' are celebrated with special ceremonies, which were introduced by A Parian priestess called Kleovia. Also Dionisos is celebrated with dancing rituals.
THASOS TODAY
Thasos is situated at the north Aegean sea, opposite the mouth of river Nestos and the town of Kavala (North and East coordinates 40,40).
Area: 393 km. Perimeter 90 km. Length from north to south 26 km.
Environment: A picturesque island. covered with pine and olive trees.
Population: 13.316 inhabitants.
Climate: Hot and healthy summers, damp winters.
Governing shape: Thasos is one of four departments of the Prefecture of Kavala, of eastern Macedonia. It is divided into one District Office and nine Community Offices.
Transportation: The island is linked by sea with the Macedonian coastline. The distance can be crossed by ferry boats or hydrofoils that depart from: a) Kavala-Prinos (12 nautical miles), b) Kavala-Limenas (18 nautical miles) and c) Keramoti-Limenas (8 nautical miles).