A trip to Kithira… a journey through time!
Kithira – a seducing island
The island of Kithira has been a melting pot for many different cultures through the ages, due to its geographical location, a crossroad where east meets west. The Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires have all ruled the island, before a long period of Venetian control. After that period the island fell to the British and French who left behind many works of infrastructure. The people of Kithira themselves, have immigrated all over the world, to America, Australia, Italy, Egypt, Asia Minor etc.
Kithira, birthplace of the Goddess Aphrodite, will seduce you with its bright light and strong winds, its magical sunsets, its secluded beaches, traditional villages, historical monuments and churches as well as with the scent of thyme, present everywhere in this beautiful scenery.
Despite its development in recent years, the island of Kithira (which also goes by the Venetian name Cerigo) remains an authentic destination which can take you back to past decades…
Aroniadika – a medieval village
The Portari Houses are found on the edge of the village of Aroniadika, a key location and main crossroads at the heart of the island. The village is an ideal base from which to start discovering all the beauties of Kithira.
The village of Aroniadika is an officially protected, picturesque settlement of unique architectural characteristics. Over the last few years, many Greeks as well as foreigners have built their summer homes here, bringing new life to the village. Old ruins and restored buildings compose a charming setting that remains untouched by time.
Aroniadika is surrounded by fruit and vegetable gardens, plains and many small villages, such as Aloizianika, Friligkianika, Kastritsianika, Pitsinades, Perlegkianika, Logothetianika and Potamos. The vast sky, the bright light, the surrounding nature and the blue strip of sea coast visible to the south and east, complete the image, making Aroniadika and Portari an alluring destination for any traveller.
