Greek Islands Portal

Andros, the northernmost island of the Cyclades, lies 7 nautical miles south of Cape Kafireas (commonly known Cavo Doro) in Evia and north of Tinos.
The island has an area of 374 square kilometers.
It differs from the majority of the Cyclades in being fertile and having several cultivated areas (citrus-trees, olives, figs and vines) and lush greenery, due to the plentiful water and mild climate. Its highest peak is Profitis Elias (997 meters).

According to mythology, the island derives its name from Andros, grandson of the god Apollo.
In ancient times it was also known as Hydroussa, possibly on account of its abundant water.
From the 7th to the 4th c. BC, the arts and letters flourished on Andros and the island was a major naval power in the Aegean. In the 13th c. AD it came into the hands of the Venetians and in 1566 was conquered by the Turks.
The people of Andros fought with the rest of the Greeks in the War of Independence of 1821, contributing their considerable naval power to the common struggle.