History:

There are various stories about the origin of the island's name. According to the one it comes from Naxos, Endymion’s son, who was the leader of the Carean settlers.Another story tells us that the namet comes from the word “naxae”, the generous sacrifices offered to the gods.

During the Venetian occupation the island was called Naxia or Axia, variations of her ancient and present name.

Naxos is known in mythology as the island where Theseus abandoned Ariadne, after slaying the Minotaur - and as the island where Ariadne met Dionysus, the ancient greek god of wine and protector of Naxos.

There are also 2 ways that the story continues. One story tells us that Ariadne fell in love with Dionysus, while another tells us that Ariadne was devastated - and to avoid the lustful advances of Dionysus, threw herself off the cliffs of Palatia (Hill on which a Temple of God Apollo was built. This is also known by the locals as 'Portara') into the sea.

Portara is one of the most well known sights of the island and there are supposed to be strong electromagnetic fields at the place.

Naxos island has really some of the most exquisit beaches of Greece and a wonderful sunset that will take your breath. There are numerous stories that started from Naxos and it would be great to hear your story start from this paradise.

Local products of Naxos island Greece:

Cheese:  Graviera, Anthotiro, Kefalotyri, Mizithra, Arseniko

Drinks: Raki, Kitro, Wine

Agricultural products: Potatoes, Onion (sweet), Herbs (Thimari, Oregano, etc)

Keep in mind that most of these products are not on mass production so it would be a good idea to buy some for your way home as it is unlikely to find them anywhere else. Stores that sell these products can be found anywhere in the island but mostly at the center of it (Chora village).