Alonissos History

The first traces of inhabitancy in the history of Alonissos date to the Paleolithic era. The present Alonissos took its name during the first years of Greek liberation and has no relation to the ancient Alonissos.

Ancient times

During antiquity, the island was named Ikos, and Alonissos was the name used by the ancient Greeks, probably for the neighboring island of Kyra Panagia. According to a legend, during the 16th century BC, Cretans settled in Ikos and Skopelos, led by the mythical figure Stafilos. The settlers brought grapevines and olive trees to the island, which made Ikos a bustling hub for wine production and distribution. The island soon became an important commercial center and a significant seaway passage, evident from the numerous shipwrecks in the surrounding area. One of the most important settlements during that time was found in Kokkinokastro, on the east side of the island. However, the constant threat of pirate attacks would ultimately lead to its desertion, with inhabitants moving inland.

Byzantine period

In 146 BC, the island was occupied by the Romans and would remain under their rule until late antiquity. In 1202 AD, the island was taken over by the Venetian family Ghisi, before falling once again under the rule of Constantinople. After the occupation of Constantinople by the Turks in 1453 the Venetians regained control. In 1538, Alonissos, like the rest of the country, would submit to the Ottomans.

Recent years

During the Greek Revolution of 1821, many Greeks from all over the country moved to Alonissos, successfully establishing a new Greek community. In 1941, German troops captured the islands of Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, and Skyros, which brought an age of oppression and hardship to the island. Alonissos, along with the rest of the Northern Sporades would be liberated in October 1944.

An important point in the recent history of Alonissos is the severe earthquake of 1965. This earthquake damaged most houses in Chora and led to the inhabitants moving to Patitiri, the capital and main port of Alonissos.
However, during the 1970s, tourism on the island began developing, ushering in a new era of prosperity.