Kalymnos Island Greece
Frequently Asked Questions
At Pothia, the capital, which climbs in an arc around its harbour. From the landing everything is on foot: the waterfront lines up caiques, cafes and stalls where natural sponges dry in the air.
Because for generations its men descended to the seabed clinging to a flat stone, the skandalopetra, to tear sponges from the rocks. The island built its fortune, its griefs and its pride on that extraordinary trade.
The Pothia waterfront, the Maritime Museum and the upper lanes in the morning, lunch by the harbour, then a taxi to Myrties and the view across to Telendos. Nothing is far.
The divers' story: lead weights, canvas suits with copper helmets, photographs of the fleets departing in the early twentieth century. Accounts of decompression accidents give the measure of the courage required. Entry is free, about 700 metres from the quay.
Yes, in the workshops near the harbour, where you can follow the raw harvest being cleaned, beaten and graded. Sellers explain readily how to tell a true sea sponge from synthetic imitations.
The limestone walls above the west coast rank among the most celebrated in Europe. You can see the colourful ropes on the overhangs, above all in spring and autumn when the rock stays cool.
On the west coast at Myrties and Masouria, facing the islet of Telendos, reached by taxi. Pebble beaches slope into strikingly clear water, and the tavernas serve grilled fish practically at the water's edge.
A natural sponge, thyme honey from the hills, dried oregano and the herbs that grandmothers still gather themselves. Enough to fill a suitcase with scents rather than trinkets.
Yes. Pothia is compact, the sponge workshops interest children and the museum is free. The lanes climb by steps, but you can stay at harbour level without missing anything essential.
The euro and Greek. The call remains a quiet one: bring cash for the workshops, taxis and small tavernas. English is spoken in the waterfront businesses.
