| Kalimnos
is widely known as the spongefishers' island, since such
a large portion of the population is engaged in this age
- old occupation.
This island of barren rock, golden beaches and tiny green
valleys owes its fame to its celebrated sponge fishers.
This is the main profession for men on the island, and the
theme for many local dances and folk songs.
Sponge fishing
means a yearly excursion to the seas off the North African
coast. Sponge-fishers of Kalymnos leave with their boats
every spring. Their departure is a moving and important
event, which is therefore accompanied by glamorous religious
ceremonies. After approximately five months' hard work sponge-fishers
return to the island.
The whole island puts on festive dress and prepares to celebrate
the return of the sea- beaten sailors.
Kalymnos or Pothia, the island's capital, amphitheatrically
built, descends to the port like a multicolored torrent
of bright houses, churches, and belfries.
In the south-western part of the island we shall visit the
cave of Kefala or Trypa, with its stalactites and stalagmites,
as well as the caves of the Seven Virgins or Cavern of the
Nymphs at the foot of mount Flaska, the cave of Scalia to
the SW, also Therma – radioactive springs (about 1
km south to the city) recommended for many illnesses.
Therma is equipped with modern bathing facilities, specialized
personnel and rooms for visitors. Chorio, the old capital
of the island, is built at the foot of the medieval castle.
Along the island's western coast there are places full of
beauty - Linaria and the villages Myrties, Masouri among
others.
With its tiny bays and surrounding islands, Kalymnos is
ideal for amateur fishermen. And its transparent sea favors
underwater fishing.
From Kalymnos, also, we can easily visit the nearby tiny
islands of Telendos and Pserimos, which offer idyllic sites
for swimming and fishing. |
