PAROS – ANTIPAROS HOTELIER ASSOCIATION
Lefkes, Paros…
The gem of the Aegean
Lefkes is one of the largest and most picturesque villages of Paros, situated at the highest point of the island. It rests on a lush, pine-covered slope, offering coolness and natural beauty. Its Cycladic houses, built amphitheatrically, form a unique ensemble of narrow, cobblestone streets where car access is prohibited, making the village ideal for walking and exploration.
The main street of Lefkes is called “Ramnos” and hosts some of the village’s most interesting sights. Here you will find neoclassical buildings, the House of Literature, Museum of Cycladic Folklore, as well as small tourist shops offering traditional products. In the old houses, many of the traditional wash-houses are still used by local women, preserving the charm of a bygone era. In the central square, next to the Heroes’ Monument, residents gather to enjoy their coffee and exchange news.
Along Ramnos, the view of the island’s eastern coast is breathtaking. At the end of the street stands the imposing Church of the Holy Trinity, built in 1835 from Parian marble. It is a three-aisled basilica with an elevated central nave and two ornate bell towers, masterpieces of Parian marble craftsmanship. The Holy Trinity is a protected historic monument and one of Paros’ most significant churches, well worth a visit.
In addition to the Holy Trinity, Lefkes is home to other important religious monuments, such as the Church of Panagia of the Presentation or “Panagia sta Kelia", the Monastery of Saint John the Baptist, the chapel of Saint Kyriaki in Upper Lefkes, and many small chapels scattered throughout the area.
The village is always clean, with whitewashed streets and houses adorned with colorful flowers, creating an idyllic landscape that changes with the seasons. Every August, Lefkes hosts the Festival of Karavola, one of the largest celebrations in the Aegean. The festival includes abundant food, karavoles (large snails cooked in various ways), local wine, live music, and dancing until morning.
From Lefkes begins the famous Byzantine Road, a unique 1,000-year-old marble-paved path, 3.5 kilometers long, connecting the village with Prodromos. This route offers a wonderful hiking experience through nature, providing priceless views and an authentic Cycladic atmosphere.
