The Chora of Samothraki
Chora of Samothrace, the capital of the island, is located on the northwestern slopes of Mount Saos, at an altitude of 300 m, 6 km from the port of Kamariotissa and 7,4 km from Pezoulia Cottages.
Chora dates back to the 10th century and both the location and the fact that it is built amphitheatrically allowed its inhabitants, in turbulent historical periods, to take notice of any invaders or pirates approaching the island and seek safe shelter.
Today, the amphitheatrical arrangement of the small two-storey stone houses with wooden verandas offers residents and visitors a spectacular view of the sea, while the sunset from any part of Chora is a thrilling experience. At the edge of the settlement, which has been declared a protected traditional village since 1978, stands the medieval castle of Gatelouzi, the Venetian rulers of the island in the 14th century, creating, together with the narrow cobbled streets and the plane trees of the square, a particularly picturesque atmosphere.
The church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is located near the central square. It is an impressive 19th century building, where the heads of the five Neomartyrs of Samothrace are kept. The Folklore Museum of Samothrace, where traditional agricultural tools, clothing and heirlooms are exhibited, is housed in an old mansion. Finally, the Antoniou building, a bakery-house, classified as a historical monument, offers even today fresh traditional bread baked in a wood-fired oven, giving visitors to Chora an unforgettable gastronomical experience.
Distance from Pezoulia Cottages: 7,4 km.
Duration of the route Pezoulia Cottages – Chora of Samothrace: 8 minutes (with car)