Parikia, or Paroikia, is the main port and capital of Paros

The port of Paroikia, also known as Parikia, is the capital, or Chora. The island's capital is located in a bay which protects it from the harsh meltemi winds. Signature for the port is an old windmill, always freshly painted, that serves as icon and gathering place for property owners promoting their properties.

The foundations of the city date back to early Cycladic period when it was an important centre for the marble trade. Although earthquakes over the years have destroyed much of the earlier settlements, you can still find traces of Byzantine and Venetian rule.

Today Paroikia is an important centre for another trade – tourism. The port of Paroikia is the ferry hub of the Cyclades and connects with many other islands in the Aegean. A well known and frequently photographed windmill provides a landmark for the busy port, which is lined with shops, cafes, bars, and tourist agencies. Turn a corner, though, into any of the quiet narrow cobblestone alleyways that lead from the port and you'll find yourself transported back to medieval times and balconies overhung with jasmine and bougainvillea.

On the west side of town, be sure to visit the impressive Byzantine church of Ekatontapyliani and the Archaeological Museum with its marble treasures from throughout the ages.

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Parikia is the main port and capital of Paros

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At the end of the main street of town, built on the site of the ancient acropolis, you can discover the Venetian kastro which dates to the early 13th century. If you examine the eastern fortification you can find evidence of the classical temples of Apollo and Demeter, the remains of which were used to construct the walls. Houses in the kastro incorporate ancient columns from earlier temples.

Near the site of the Temple of Apollo you'll find the 300 year old blue-domed church of Agia Eleni and Agios Konstantinos.

Taxi boats from Paroikia visit the popular beach of Kaminia and Krios which are sheltered from the north winds. On the hill above the beach you can explore the ruins of an archaic sanctuary of Delian Apollo.

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