Archaeological Site of Yria

First stop is Dionysos temple at Yria sanctuary , The ruins that survive today show that the temple was built approximately in the 6th century BC following the Ionian architectural style. In the 1st century BC, the Romans reconstructed it. During the 5th century AD, after the religion of the Olympian gods had failed, the temple converted to a Christian church.Adjacent to the monument lies a small room with findings from the site.(entrance fee 3€ pp ). Next stop is Demeter s temple , a spectacular recently restored ancient temple of 530 BC. Apart from the impressive monument ,you ll have the chance to visit the archeological museum located in the same area ,giving you the chance to see findings from the site.(entrance fee 4€ pp in cash only) Afterwards we ll have a 35min break at Chalki village ,where you ll have the chance to try citron liquor at the citron distillery ,try local honey or more,have a coffee break . Then we ll visit Kaloxylos village so as to stop at the Ergostasio Naxos for a delicious Olive Oil & olive products tasting.Whoever s interested ,there s the option of Kaloxylos folklore museum where visitors have the opportunity to rediscover the past, enjoying rare collections of farming implements, household utensils, stamps, coins and school memorabilia, lovingly displayed in the folklore museum.In this elegant neoclassical buiding, visitors can discover the only rope making workshop still existing in the Cyclades as well as the village grocery emporium, dating back to 1935. Last but not least is the stop is Panagia Drossiani ,the oldest Byzantine Church in the Balcan Peninsula with really unique frescoes.

Discover the myths embracing famed monuments, as well as the rare beauty of rural Naxos, ancient earth whose secrets come to life in mythical moments through storytelling and sensational taste sampling. You’ll learn about the lives –and quarrels – of the Gods and Goddesses of Olympus, fearless heroes such as Theseus, Odysseus’ tales and more. Our tour begins with a visit to the sanctuary of Dionysus -ancient god of wine, surrounded with olive, fig trees, and vines. Here, your expert guide will share with you the love story of Dionysus and Ariadne, the ecstatic dances of the female followers of Dionysus’, the harvest celebrations and the wine banquets held on site.We continue our journey of discovery enjoying a panoramic drive through the countryside, passing rocky slopes, green hills and plains to reach Dimitra’s sanctuary overlooking the fertile plains of Sangri. We marvel at the marble temple of the goddess and learn about the mysteries held in her honor as well as Persephone’s myth of the changing seasons. Continuing our drive to to Tragea plain, the largest olive grove of the island with hundred years old olive trees- precious gift of Athena, goddess of wisdom… to reach the small unspoiled village of Kaloxylos. Here we conclude our tour with time dedicated to the god of Hospitality – Xenios Zeus, savoring the islands precious goods - olive oil, cheese, wine and honey – gifts of the ancient gods.