Astypalaia is the westernmost island in the Dodecanese Group. It has a past that goes back hundreds of years, villages that have been painted white, deep blue seas, and beaches that are soaked in sun. From above, the island looks like it has two separate parts that are joined by a thin strip of land that is less than 100 m wide. The part that is farther to the east is called Exo Nisi, and the part that is closer to the west is called Mesa Nisi.

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Chora is the main city and port of the island. The town sits on a rock that rises into the water, creating two bays. It is one of the most beautiful places in the Aegean. You can see Chora’s castle from the top, which stands tall over the town. The white domes of Evangelistria and Agios Georgios churches can be seen peeking over the walls. To the sides of the castle are Chora’s homes, which have whitewashed walls, blue doors and windows, and wooden porch rails.