Ios

Halfway between Naxos and Santorini, it’s name most probably derives from the Ancient Greek word for violets ‘‘Ια’’ commonly found on the island. The burial place of the epic poet Homer, ancient texts and coins show it was his mother’s place of birth. Already influenced by the Minoan and Mycenaean civilisations, the Phoenicians arrived on the island maintaining their presence until the 9th century bc. Growing in importance in the Classical period, it became a member of the Delian League coming under Macedonian rule. In 315 bc Ios became independent. From the 2nd century ad under Roman occupation it declined becoming a place for exiles which continued under the Byzantines. It suffered numerous pirate raids causing the islanders to flee often to the hilltop fort of Kastro. The Franks took control during the Crusades followed by the Venetian Crispi dynasty in the 15th century when it became part of the Duchy of Naxos. With aggression in the Cyclades from Barbarossa, the island suffered constant attacks. However, it gained autonomy in 1829 after taking part in the Greek War of Independence, where it participated with a number of ships.

From the 2nd century ad under Roman occupation it declined becoming a place for exiles which continued under the Byzantines.

Discovering Ios in autumn during the first year of the project was a dream since this was where my first encounter with the Cyclades had begun in 1974. Most of the panoramic photography was done here encouraged by a desire to revisit places I’d known as a child. Trekking for hours, often on terrains without paths, brought me face to face with scenery I never imagined experiencing. The efforts are memorable.