NOMOS LESVOY

MYRINA

Population (according to 2021 census): 6.190

Photo source: https://limnos.gov.gr/

History

Lemnos: From the “First City of Europe” (Poliochni) to the Ancient Theatre of Hephaistia and the Cabeirian Mysteries

The Island of Hephaestus: From Poliochni to Liberation

-Lemnos, the island of Hephaestus, possesses a fascinating and multi-layered history, particularly in regard to its archaeological sites, which are of global significance. -The island has been inhabited since the Middle Neolithic period. Poliochni, located on the southeastern side of the island, is one of the most important prehistoric settlements in the Aegean region and is often considered “the first city of Europe.” -Dating from the beginning of the 3rd millennium BC, Poliochni was a fortified settlement with an urban structure—possibly with some form of collective governance—indicating a highly developed civilization. -The settlement went through different periods of prosperity (e.g., the Yellow Period), was destroyed by natural causes (possibly an earthquake) at the end of the 3rd millennium BC, and was reoccupied in the 2nd millennium BC. -In Poliochni, archaeologists discovered a building interpreted as the oldest parliamentary chamber (bouleuterion) in Europe (late 4th – early 3rd millennium BC), suggesting the existence of an organized social administration. -In historical times, Lemnos was known as “Dipolis” (“Two Cities”) because of its two powerful city-states: Myrina (the modern capital) and Hephaistia. -Hephaistia, the second most important city-state of ancient Lemnos, was located on the northeastern part of the island and flourished from the 7th to the 1st century BC. It was named after the god Hephaestus, the patron deity of the city and the island as a whole. Excavations have uncovered impressive finds demonstrating its importance, including sanctuaries, necropolises, baths, and especially an Ancient Theatre dating from the late 5th or early 4th century BC—one of the oldest in the Greek world. Renovated during the Roman period, this theatre served as the cultural heart of the ancient city, which continued to maintain its prominence during Byzantine times. -Slightly north of Hephaistia, on the rugged cape of Chloe, stood the Sanctuary of the Cabeiri (the Cabeirion), one of antiquity’s most significant cult sites, where the Cabeirian Mysteries were performed. The cult was dedicated to the Cabeiri—deities associated with Hephaestus, fire, metallurgy, and fertility—and celebrated the renewal of humanity and nature. The site contains the remains of three successive sanctuaries (Archaic, Hellenistic, and Late Roman), with the earliest ceremonial hall (7th century BC) possibly being the oldest known in the Greek world. The grand Hellenistic Telesterion was, in fact, twice the size of that on Samothrace. Nearby lies the mythical Cave of Philoctetes. -During the Classical period, Lemnos played an active role in the political and military affairs of the region. The island was conquered by the Persians in 512 BC and liberated in 479 BC, later coming under Macedonian rule. -The Romans took control of the area around 196 BC, granting the island a degree of autonomy. During the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, intellectual life flourished, producing prominent sophists such as Philostratus. -Lemnos became an important Byzantine center, undergoing various administrative changes and influences. The Castle of Myrina was built by Emperor Andronicus I Comnenus, who strengthened its fortifications in 1186 over the ruins of earlier Pelasgian or pre-Pelasgian walls. It was later further reinforced by the Genoese occupiers. -During the Ottoman period, the island suffered numerous attacks. A notable figure of heroism was Maroula from the Castle of Kotsinas, regarded as the “Joan of Arc of Lemnos,” who in 1478 seized her slain father’s sword and led the castle’s defenders to victory against the Turks. -Lemnos was finally liberated by the Greek fleet under Admiral Pavlos Kountouriotis in 1912, during the Balkan Wars, following the Battles of Elli and Lemnos.

Traditions

The Tradition of Lemnos: The Rhythm of Kechagias, the Batatsoudes, and Rural Life

The Cultural Heritage of Lemnos

-Lemnos, as a crossroads of civilizations in the northern Aegean, has developed a rich and distinctive tradition, where its customs, dances, and music stand out—often closely tied to its agricultural and pastoral way of life. -The musical and dance traditions of Lemnos are inextricably linked to the kechagiades (landless herdsmen and farmers during Ottoman times), who created a unique cultural movement. -The island’s most characteristic and famous dance is the Kechagias (or Kechagiadic Dance). It is performed in a circle, in a 7/8 rhythm, with open hand-holding, leaping steps, and raised arms, reflecting the dancers’ vitality. The dance is accompanied by songs that recount the lives and adventures of the kechagiades (e.g., “Vre Kechagia Perifane” — “Proud Kechagias”). -At festivals and celebrations, other popular dances also dominate, such as Patma (or Patima), a fast, lively hopping dance favored by young people that allows for displays of skill through spinning movements. The Ballos of Lemnos is a couples’ dance, where partners—often holding a handkerchief—dance proudly with graceful, impressive figures. Another distinctive dance is the Lemnian Brostopisinos, a purely female dance sung by young women, focusing on the search for suitors. Among other well-known local tunes are the Karsilamas “Elenaki” and the Panagia Dance. -These dances are traditionally accompanied by the Lyra, the island’s quintessential string instrument, as well as by the Tsambouna or Askavlos, a type of bagpipe common across many Aegean islands. -Lemnos still preserves living customs connected mainly to the agricultural calendar and major religious feasts. -In Kaminia (and other villages), an ancient custom known as the Batatsoudes is revived on the eve of Epiphany. Men disguise themselves with animal hides and bells—taking on beast-like forms—as Batatsoudes (or Kalikantzaroi, goblins), and go from house to house to drive away evil spirits and frighten children. Housewives offer them traditional treats and wine, leading to a joyful celebration on Epiphany Day. -In the village of Kalliopi, on St. George’s Day, traditional horse races are held—a custom dating back to Ottoman times, when both Christians and Muslims took part. -Lemnos is renowned for its festivals, especially on August 15th (the Feast of the Virgin Mary), which marks the height of the island’s social life. During these festivities, traditional dances take center stage, with Kechagias and Patima leading the way.

Local products

Mavragani Wheat, Thyme Honey, and Cheeses of Lemnos: The Foundation of Local Cuisine

Lemnos: Cheeses, Wine, and the Secrets of the "Granary"

-Lemnos, known since antiquity as the granary of the Aegean (sitovolonas), boasts a rich and unique gastronomic tradition, with its local products forming the foundation of its cuisine. -Lemnos is renowned for the production of excellent cheeses, primarily from the sheep and goat milk of free-ranging animals. It also has a long tradition in the cultivation of cereals and other consumables (e.g., honey). These local products thrive because Lemnos has a specific microclimate and geomorphology—shrub-covered meadows, slopes, winds, soil—that influence the quality of the milk, wine, and other raw materials. -Kalathaki Limnou is a white brine cheese with a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status. It was named so because it was traditionally strained in small woven baskets (tyrvolia), which left the characteristic embossed imprint on its surface. It is rich in flavor and aromas, being less acidic than Feta. -Melichloro (or Melipasto) is a traditional semi-hard cheese made from sheep's milk, which, after straining, is left to dehydrate in a shaded, ventilated area. When fresher, it has a texture between soft and dry, while when hardened, it becomes ideal for saganaki (fried cheese), grating over pasta, or pairing with local thyme honey. A file has been submitted for it to also receive the PDO indication. -Flomaria are the most famous local pasta of the island. Resembling chilopites (egg noodles), they are made with local flour, fresh milk, and eggs and constitute the main accompaniment in traditional recipes, such as rooster in red sauce (kokkinistos). Their preparation was a demanding process for the old housewives. Other traditional pasta and flour products produced on the island include trachanas (fermented milk and wheat porridge) and valanes. -Mavragani is a traditional wheat variety that has been cultivated in Lemnos for centuries. It is used to produce flours with distinct aromas and flavor, which are considered ideal both for kneading and preparing a unique, nutritious bread, and for making local pasta, such as flomaria and trachanas. -Beekeeping has a long history in Lemnos. The island's thyme honey is famous for its rich aroma, amber color, and intense flavor. It is used in many traditional sweets, such as diples (fried pastry with syrup) and samsades (nut and sesame rolled pastry). -Lemnos has a significant winemaking tradition and is famous for two main indigenous varieties: the white Muscat of Alexandria (PDO) and the red Limnio (or Kalampaki). Wines of international distinction are produced (white, red, sweet, and even unfiltered), and wine production is one of the main pillars of the island's economy.

Tourism

Lemnos: A Destination with Neoclassical Charm, Rare Geological Phenomena, and Ideal Beaches

Lemnos as a Destination: History, Nature, and Sea

-Lemnos is an authentic island destination that combines rich history, natural beauty, and a variety of options for visitors. Its tourist attractions include picturesque beaches, unique geological phenomena, and historical sites. -The Castle of Myrina dominates the highest and most central point of the town, dividing it into two coastal parts. It is one of the largest and best-preserved castles in the Aegean, with its current form attributed to the Byzantine Emperor Andronikos I Komnenos (12th century AD), although the location was fortified since antiquity. The ascent to the castle offers a panoramic view of the harbor and the horizon, while its most distinctive feature is that it serves as a natural sanctuary for a small, free herd of fallow deer (Platonia), which visitors may encounter during their walk. -Romeikos Gialos is the most cosmopolitan and impressive district of Myrina, stretching along the western coast of the town. It got its name from the Greek (Rum/Romeos) inhabitants during the period of the Ottoman Empire. The area is famous for its well-preserved, neoclassical mansions with intense colors and distinctive architecture. These houses were mainly built by wealthy Lemnians of the diaspora, who had returned from Egypt in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, Romeikos Gialos is ideal for relaxing seaside strolls and features a plethora of cafes, bars, and taverns that offer a sunset view. -The Archaeological Museum of Lemnos is housed in an elegant 19th-century mansion in Romeikos Gialos. It is an essential stop for anyone wanting to learn about the island's rich history. It hosts a significant collection of findings covering a huge time period, from the prehistoric era to the Roman period. Particularly important are the artifacts from the excavations at the major archaeological sites of Lemnos, such as the prehistoric settlement of Poliochni, the ancient city of Hephaistia, and the Sanctuary of the Kabeiroi. Through the exhibits, visitors can follow the evolution of civilization on the island of Hephaestus. -Lemnos features a striking and rare natural landscape due to its volcanic origin. The most famous geological phenomenon is the Ammothines or Thick Sands, a 70-acre area in the north of the island that resembles a small desert—a unique landscape in Greece. Equally impressive is the Faraklo Geological Park, with its rounded, "lunar" formations created by lava. Furthermore, the Lakes Aliki, Chortarolimni, and Asprolimni are protected wetlands: Aliki, when it dries up in the summer, leaves behind a bright white salt surface and is a refuge for migratory birds, such as flamingos (Phoenicopterus). Finally, the picturesque chapel of Panagia Kakaviotissa, nestled within a cave-like hollow, completes the image of Lemnos's wild, natural beauty. -The coastline of Lemnos offers a wide variety of beaches, mainly with fine, golden sand and shallow, clear waters, suitable for every taste. For sports enthusiasts, Keros is the ultimate destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to the strong wind. For those who prefer comfort, organized and cosmopolitan options include Platy, Thanos, and Evgatis, while Agios Ioannis beach stands out for its magical sunset. Those seeking quieter corners can choose the more isolated sandy beaches, such as Gomati near Ammothines, or the small picturesque coves like Mikro Fanaraki. Generally, the beaches of Lemnos combine easy access with large sandy expanses and a relaxed atmosphere.