Koufonisia Traditional Boatyard

Location: Chora

Despite its small size, the island of Koufonisia boasts the second largest fishing fleet in Greece in proportion to its inhabitants, which led to the need for boatyards that would repair the fishing vessels. In the past, there were two traditional boatyards —known as karnagio in Greek— one of which can still be seen today in the location of Loutro, within walking distance from Chora and the port of Koufonisia. For decades, it was an inherent part of the local cultural heritage, as it was not just the only one in the Small Cyclades, but it also kept alive age-old boat-repairing techniques. Nowadays, though its operation occasionally discontinues, it is a much-visited spot, as it offers a great setting for memorable pictures.

Beside the boatyard, one can also see a quaint windmill that proudly defies the wear of time. Built in 1830, it is one of the two windmills that used to serve the residents’ needs, and it has been declared a Modern Monument of the pre-industrial era. At the edge of the small nearby peninsula looms another hidden gem of Koufonisia, a lovely blue-domed chapel dedicated to Saint Nicholas.