Wasn’t Salamis a nymph carried away by Poseidon? She was destined to give her name to this very island. We are standing at the Municipality of Salamina. It is a place steeped in myth and history. Salamis is the largest Greek island in the Saronic Gulf. It is remarkably close to Athens.
Salamina’s story twists through time. Its ancient name, Koulouri, hints at its round shape. But the name Salamis echoes through the ages. The island has been known by other names. Pityousa referred to its pine trees. Skiras honored a hero. Kychreia paid tribute to King Kychreas.
Around 600 BC, Athens and Megara fought over Salamis. Eventually, it became an Athenian possession. Homer’s Iliad mentions Salamis. Twelve ships sailed to the Trojan War under Ajax’s command.
The Battle of Salamis is the island’s claim to fame. In 480 BC, the Greek fleet clashed with the Persian Empire. Themistocles led the Athenian-led Greeks to a decisive victory. Legend says Euripides was born on the day of this battle. Today, the Hellenic Navy has its headquarters here. This is the Salamis Naval Base.
Salamina has many villages each with unique character. Paloukia is the main port. Ferries connect it to Perama and Piraeus. Aianteio is named after Ajax. Its churches date back centuries. Batsi nestles at the foot of a piney mountain. Kaki Vigla boasts clean beaches. Peristeria is near the Cave of Euripides. Psili Ammos features the chantry of Saint Grigorios. Steno sits near Faneromeni Monastery. Vasilika has a large sandy beach. Xeno got its name from its first non-Salamis residents. Kynosoura holds the remains of an ancient tumulus. Selinia is a popular resort.
The Municipality of Salamina thrives on maritime activities. Fishing, ferries, and shipyards employ many. Tourism also plays a vital role. Many Athenians visit for holidays and weekends. Cafes, bars, and shops dot the island. The island is partially restricted because of the naval base.
Salamis’s landmarks tell its story. Faneromeni Monastery dates back to the 15th century. The Chantry of Saint George was founded in 1250. The Mycenaean city of Salamis thrived in the 13th century BC. The ancient city and port of Salamis date back to the 5th to 1st centuries BC. The Tomb of the Fighters from the naval Battle of Salamis can be found in Kynosoura. The Euripideio Theatre hosts cultural events. The Church of Saint Dimitrios was founded in 1806. The Cave of Euripides is a must-see.
Salamina has produced notable people. Ajax the Great was a legendary king. Euripides was a famous tragedian. Georgios Karaiskakis was a hero of the Greek War of Independence. Angelos Sikelianos was a renowned poet.
Salamis Island is twinned with Famagusta Cyprus since 1998.
So, as you stand here at the Municipality of Salamina remember its long story. From mythic nymph to naval base this island is a vital part of Greece. Take a moment to appreciate the layers of history and culture surrounding you. Salamina welcomes you to discover its secrets.