Introduction and Guide to The Island of Evia (EUBOEA)

Evia is the second largest Greek island covering about 3,700 sq km of land on the east coast of Greece to the north of Athens.  It has 678 km of coastline with large areas of the island being sparsely populated as there are under 230,000 inhabitants and development is restricted.  The scenery is spectacular with mountains up to 1743 m, forests and a stunning coastline with numerous beaches dotted along it. It is around one hour’s drive from Athens and its international airport, via the two road bridges at Halkida which is a popular resort all the year around for the Athenians and its other visitors.  The capital, Halkida, has rail and coach links to Athens and there are various ferry routes at Karystos, Marmari, Styra, Almiropotamos, Eretria, Kymi, Arkitsa, Agiokampos and Asimini linking Evia to the mainland and adjoining islands.

History

During the ancient times, Evia used to be called Elopia, Avadis, Dolichi and Makris. Some of its oldest inhabitants include the Leleges, the Avantes and the Kourites. Archaeological excavations have uncovered traces of life dating back to the Neolithic Age. It is has a rich and troubled history and has many Homeric connections. Before the Dorian invasion the island used to be inhabited by the Thessalians and during the 6th/7th century B.C. it was colonized by the Ions. The richness of the soil, the cattle breeding, and the marble, copper and iron quarries contributed to the enormous financial development of the island and the foundation of colonies in Kerkyra, Naxos, Halkidiki, the Dodecanese, Italy and Sicily.

Two of the biggest cities in antiquity, Halkida and Eretria, were located on Evia and were older than Athens. Their rivalry led to long lasting wars between them which actually caused the island to decline. After that, Evia, just like the rest of the country, was dominated by the Macedonians, the Romans (146 B.C.), the Franks (1205) and the Turks (1405 -1830) in turn, until it became part of Greece in 1833. 

An unspoilt Island

The island is full of surprises and despite its overwhelming natural beauty and historic attractions, remains unspoilt and undiscovered by commercial tourism.  Evia is where the Greeks go for their leisure and holiday purposes and to enjoy the numerous fish restaurants there.  It has something for everyone

Activities

The outdoor enthusiast has plenty on offer with walking, climbing, sailing, swimming, scuba diving, water-skiing, horse riding, tennis and bird watching all available. For those interested in history there are many archaeological treasures and monuments to visit including some very interesting museums, churches and monasteries.  If you wish to relax there are many fine beaches and restaurants. 

Shopping

For the shopaholics the Halkida area provides the greatest choice but with their family run shops there is something of interest in many of the smaller towns.  Apart from the supermarkets, chain stores are rare on the island, so you will appreciate the personal service you receive in the shops.

All year-round activities

Evia has much more to offer than many of the more well known Greek islands and with its year round accessibility and increasingly popularity it has the requirements to satisfy those wishing to invest, to have a holiday home, or to live.