The capital of Naxos (“Chora”), one of the most beautiful cities of the Cyclades, is located on the western side of the island and is built on a hill slope not unlike an ancient amphitheater. Not only is it the largest tourist resort on the island: it is also an important commercial crossroad, as well as a much-frequented Aegean port.

The Chora bustles with a host of shops, bars, restaurants and cafeterias to satisfy every visitor’s wish list – as much for its traditional products as for its entertainment. The Chora’s “trademark” (and also the island’s) is the port’s Portara. You’d be remiss if you miss the site where people throng to catch the magical sunset as seen from the Portara.

At the Chora’s summit, the Kastro suddenly appears before you: this imposing medieval structure built by Marco Sanudo, when this Venetian founded the Duchy of the Aegean. The houses of the Chora, built along the narrow hilly alleyways, constitute the artistic contribution of the Cyclades and its Venetian architecture to the island, the splendid mansions in particular standing out in their grandeur.