LESBO

Lesbos (from the Greek Λέσβος), also known as Mytilene, is the third largest Greek island, located in the northern Aegean Sea, just a few nautical miles from Anatolia. It can be reached both by sea and by air (via the “Odysseas Elytis” international airport). The island is 188 nautical miles from Piraeus.

Lesbos has an area of 1,630 km² and about 90,000 inhabitants.

The inland is hilly, covered with pine trees and olive groves. Additionally, grapes and fruit are cultivated. The highest point reaches 968 meters above sea level (Mount Olympus). The island's coasts form two deep bays to the south, which serve as excellent natural harbors. The island is rich in thermal springs. The western part is barren and volcanic, the southeast part includes Mount Olympus with slopes covered by oaks, pines, and olives, while the northern part is a mix of the two zones.

The main activities of its inhabitants, in addition to tourism, are the production of olive oil, livestock farming (goats and sheep), and agriculture in general. Lesbos is also known as “the island of olives” because it has the largest olive groves in Greece. The island also produces the best ouzo in Greece (in the town of Plomari) and excellent sardines are fished in the Bay of Kaloni.

The capital is Mytilene, where the main port is located. A second large port is in Sigri, on the opposite side of the island.

In ancient times, Lesbos traded the dye "blue," known as "Mytilene blue." It was the birthplace of lyric poetry, with Sappho and Alcaeus, and also of instrumental music (the inventor of the seven-stringed lyre was from Lesbos). The artistic talent of the island's inhabitants is still evident today in their crafts (textiles, paintings, carved wood, and ceramics). Although very close to the Asian coasts, Lesbos is nevertheless absolutely Greek.

The road network is good and connects all the island's localities. There is an excellent service of both buses and taxis. There are also several car and scooter rental agencies on the island.