Symi Island, Greece, 2013

7 August  2013

Symi was the first of the Dodecanese Greek islands we visited with Hamamas as it was only 10 nm from Bozburan in Turkey. Although only small Symi island is very interesting as it had a long history of sponge diving and ship building which brought prosperity to the island,  During the Ottoman times it was granted the right to collect sponges in Turkish waters and in return Symi supplied the Sultan experienced boat builders and the best quality sponges!  Lucky Sultan.    

We stayed on the island 5 days in all and anchored first, at beautiful Pedi Bay so we could go on the bus into Symi town centre to “check–into” Greece. Later we anchored at Panormitis on the western side of the island in order to visit the monastery. (See other Posts)

Symi town is arranged around the lovely old town harbour with views to the Horio (old town) on the hillside. It is a delightful little town with so many “photo opportunities” that it was hard to stop clicking away. 

(Remember to click on the photos to enlarge them)

This ferry almost took up the whole harbour!

Tom with an Abandoned Gun of some sort.

Boys  and their toys!

There are Sponge Stores everywhere.

Fran with yet another lovely Greek door!

On 8 May 1945 the Germans signed The Threaty of the Dodecanese surrender in this house.

View of Symi Harbour from the Bus.

Ruins on the way to Pedi Bay

Some of the buildings are now being used as homes.