Recent history

During the 2nd world war first the Italians and later the Germans came. Then followed freedom, the civil war, poverty, emigration and from 1980 onwards the tourist development.

This brought other activities, which urged many young people to remain on the island and many others to return from the urban centers and abroad, especially during the summer months.

Even in contemporary years Skopelos has maintained it's unique cultural foundation:

The legends and rich traditions, likewise the historic and artistic monuments, the castles and monasteries, ancient churches, the famous altar screens, all the work of highly skilled and dedicated local artists..

Let us explore the island and experience it's past in order to understand the present and future of this unique place.

Skopelos was a Bishopric, a fact that highlights the island's prosperity and spirituality. According to the legend of St. Riginos, (the patron saint of Skopelos), who slayed the dragon which was terrorizing and killing people on the island. He chased it to the area between Staphylos and Agnontas. There, at that spot the mountain broke apart and the dragon fell and was killed in the abyss - that site is today called "Dragons Schism".

The people of Skopelos have maintained their traditional shipbuilding skills, as well as woodcarving and producing beautifully decorated pottery. In earlier times shipyards were in operation in Skopelos and, during the revolution the island provided 35 trade ships to assist in the fighting. They were occupied, too, with the art of weaving and famous for the traditional Skopelitian garments.

The Knifes of Skopelos are also unique, as, one line folk verses are carved into their handles.

In Greek history it is astonishing how myths and reality get interwoven in a unique way.

[ Mythology ] - [ Antiquity ] - [ Byzanz ] - [ Newer History ] - [ Historical Personalities ]

© Skopelos Web Site